Photography – Matthew McKinnon's Blog

Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery but today is a Gift, that’s why it is called “the present”!

Your word, LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.Your faithfulness continues through all generations;

I came across an old chap on social media this week who was quoting the above saying, it was new to me so really made me laugh. I decided to use the words in this month’s blog! The photos above are a personal picture of ‘yesterday, today and the future’ illustrating our growing family over a period of 127 years. I’m sure many could show a similar set of photos representing their family! And doesn’t holding a new baby often cause one to exclaim, ‘I wonder what the future holds for this child?’

History – Libraries of course hold volumes of books that have been written on the history of our changing world over the last century. That however pales into insigificance, volume-wise, when we consider the advent of the computer. According to ChatGPT (Intelligent Design) humanity now produces more information in a single day than was produced in an entire century in the past. Total recorded information is estimated to double every few years, and covers every subject imaginable. Our recent visit to the Transport museum and this month’s visit to the Kelvingrove Art Galleries and Museum could be considered by some to be a waste of time, as you can find it all on the internet. But nothing I believe beats things that stimulate our five senses; touch, taste, hearing, sight and smell.

Now here are some photos of our recent visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a visit we always find to be a great way to spend an afternoon, and admission is free! Most of the exhibits I enjoy, but find the work of artists, and sculptors particularly amazing. Too many photos to show, but here is a sample.

But when the sunshines!…..well, my wife and I like to get out together at least one day a week, over and above things like cutting the grass, tidying the garden and getting the greenhouse ready for the expected new season. The following photos are of our recent activities including photos taken during our visit to the beautiful Greenbank NTS (National Trust for Scotland) Gardens.

Reflection: I’ve been mentioning something of the wonders of our computer age and the advancement of AI, but as you get older it’s difficult to cope at times with all these ‘newfangled ideas’ that are constantly being pushed forward, especially in the world of technology. Of course we recognise the many many blessings they have brought in terms of medicine, transport, mobility, home comforts and ease of communication with family and friends. Yes we are truly blessed.

It’s apparent however that human hearts haven’t changed, as we watch and listen to our daily news bulletins. Do you ever feel just like switching the TV off? Wars and more wars, cheating public figures, in politics, business, and the entertainment world, and to be truthful in every other aspect of life. We also witness the daily toll of people from all backgrounds coming before our courts, and our prison system groaning under overload capacity. Oh, and then there is you and me, who get things terribly wrong far too often!

A surreal painting depicting a crucifixion scene with a figure on the cross, set against a dark sky and distorted landscape.

The most famous painting in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery is by far Salvador Dali’s painting entitled ‘Christ of St John of the Cross’ where he dramatically contrasts the Jesus of Galilee, with Jesus the man on a cross. Why, we may well ask, did Jesus who taught the multitudes around the shores of Galilee and beyond, end his life in agony, humiliation, shame and mockery on a cross? All he taught regarding the things of God, and the coming Kingdom were so often accompanied by his miracles. You will remember how he fed the hungry, healed the sick, made the lame to walk, gave sight to the blind, calmed the sea and raised the dead. A reading of John’s Gospel provides the answer to the ‘why’ question, and as we approach Easter I’m sure you would be blessed if you read it for yourself. John finishes his writing of that Gospel with these words ‘Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.‘ At our Church in Glasgow we have been studying John’s Gospel together at our morning services for many weeks, why not listen to one? I recommend last week’s talk which you can hear by logging on to the website. – http://www.greenviewchurch.co.uk

On Sunday we read the Biblical account of Jesus’ death by crucifixion on a Friday all those years ago, but as Jesus followers we remember His promise of the third day, and love to say, ‘Ah, but Sunday’s coming’! …. for on the third day he arose from the grave. So we look forward to Easter Sunday just a few days away and hope you can enjoy the celebration at a Church where you are?

As Easter fast approaches I will finish with the words of a hymn that always touches my heart, you can hear it being sung on You Tube. It goes like this:

Up Calvary’s mountain, one dreadful morn,
Walked Christ my Saviour, weary and worn;
Facing for sinners death on the cross,
That He might save them from endless loss.

Refrain
Blessed Redeemer! Precious Redeemer!
Seems I now see Him on Calvary’s tree;
Wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading,
Blind and unheeding-dying for me!

“Father forgive them!” thus did He pray,
E’en while His lifeblood flowed fast away;
Praying for sinners while in such woe
No one but Jesus ever loved so.

Refrain
O how I love Him, Savior and Friend,
How can my praises ever find end!
Through years unnumbered on heaven’s shore,
My tongue shall praise Him forevermore.

Best wishes for Easter wherever you are, and I’m always happy to hear from you

Matthew

Valentine’s Weekend: Faith, Nature, and Community.

So what comes to mind when you think ‘ah February‘? It would be easy to talk about the cold and damp, or the frost and icy weather, or the cost of living, especially relative to food and heating bills, or even the argy-bargy of the children and politicians! 🙂

At our church we always taught the children to sing “this is the day that the Lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it”. You might say ‘easier sung that done‘, and we all get that. But nonetheless I’ve found from experience that the words of the other old hymn are true – ‘Trust in the Lord and don’t despair he is a friend so true, no matter what your troubles are Jesus will see you through. Sing while the day is bright, sing in the darkest night, every day all the way let us sing sing, sing!”

We certainly have lots of good things to sing about, and compared with so many others we are truly blessed! Here’s a few photos of what we did on St Valentine’s day/weekend.

Largs and Skelmorlie walks were also very much among our activities last weekend, these locations are less than an hours drive from Glasgow, so we tend to take them for granted, but they are beautiful. Some photos from our weekend visit follow.

Earlier in the month we had a trip to Glasgow’s Transport Museum, but ran out of time looking at the exhibits. Here are a few photos.

On the top right hand photo of this set you will see the horse drawn trams my father told me about, yes, they were still around when he was a boy at the turn of the last century. In the bottom row of cars L > R my first new car an Austin Mini, then a Ford 8 like the one I used for driving lessons and lastly the Hillman Imp that was manufactured in Scotland. On February 14th I also like to remember Voyager 1 and the famous Pale Blue Dot picture taken on Feb.14th 1990 before moving into Interstellar space. What a project, and what an achievement!

This made me smile this week. We have come a very long way since my father’s day and the horse drawn trams, and in such a short time! I checked out on line the Voyager 1 current details. Here are some facts; Launched on 5 September 1977, it is now 15,997,084,950 miles from earth and travelling at 32,210mph and tho’ it will not pass the nearest star, it will come within 1.6 light years of star AC+79 3888 in approximately 40,000 years! (I can’t personally verify the figures 😊) The speed of light is 186,000 miles per second!

Does that all sound a bit like Science Fiction? Whatever, but it looks like it will take some time to confirm these stats!!

But one certain thing I do hope for as a Christian is the return of our Lord, Jesus Christ, just as He promised. To his disciples who were saddened as he spoke of his imminent return to God his Father he said “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

This is a lovely picture of a wedding in Jesus’ time, when the Bridegroom comes for his bride after he has prepared a place for her. as we have elsewhere in the New Testament. Jesus himself illustrates it so well in one of the most solemn parables he ever spoke. It reads like this: Matthew 25:1-13.

THE PARABLE OF THE TEN VIRGINS

At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
“At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’
“Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’
“‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’
“But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.
“Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’
“But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

Now you will have heard the sceptic commenting on this at times when things expected have been delayed, by saying ‘it’s about as likely as the 2nd coming’. But don’t be deceived, Jesus is giving a serious warning. The Apostle Peter in 2 Peter 3:4 says: ‘In the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation’. Peter then goes on to remind them that, ‘a day with the Lord is like a thousand years, and a 1000 years as one day’.

In an earlier blog I commented that scientists in 2024 reset the Doomsday Clock at 90 seconds to midnight. In the current global situation, I notice many of the signs Jesus said would precede his coming, are currently happening, along with many other Bible prophecies, so I would suggest to all my readers that Jesus’ warning be taken very seriously.

Therefore keep watch for you do not know the day or the hour! Perhaps today?

This is the great hope of the Christian!

With that thought, I’ll sign off, until the next time DV (Deo Volente)

Hope you enjoyed the blog, as always I’m glad to hear from you wherever you are. Wishing you every blessing.

Matthew

The Year 2025 as seen through my camera lens!

Now that the Christmas and New Year festivities have passed, I have made time to review my photographs taken during 2025, which is something I like to do, before all its memories quickly disappear into my photograph archives! Well they say, photos at times speak louder than words, so this blog will be with less words on the photos, I’ll let them speak for themselves! Here are some winter photos to start ….

< A night in Glasgow attending
the ‘Messiah’ >

Wintertime and winter days have their own special memories

The garden is a real pleasure at any time of the year, but Springtime for us means ‘Spring cleaning’ in home and garden. …….

and of course a Spring Holiday to the Isle of Tiree. First the journey ….

Now a quick look at Tiree …….

Those who subscribe to this blog will know that day trips are often a common feature. Here are just some from 2025.

Lastly I’ll show you some more weather shots, which are always a topic of conversation when we meet with others here in Scotland.

Well I find it difficult to choose the pbotographs to display in this type of blog, as some are chosen more for the memory they invoke, than for their photo quality, but I hope you enjoyed my photos as much as I did in putting them together. I finished with photos of the sky during day and night, as I always think it displays in such a powerful way the Glory and Majesty of God. The new 1.5 hr. documentary film released in December 2025 that I watched before Christmas, called ‘Universe designed’ is one I reall;y enjoyed, so no doubt that influenced my choice! (Available on You Tube, Amazon Premier and Netflix)

Of course at Christmas we remember the Glory of God revealed at the coming of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, and recently at Church we have been enjoying a study in John’s Gospel looking at the life and work of the amazing JESUS! Again, you can log-on to greenviewchurch.co.uk then just click on sermons to listen to the latest or past sermons.

In writing about the amazing JESUS I was reading in the Bible at the book of Colossians this week and came across this famed passage in Paul’s letter, which illustrates how amazing He is! It reads – ‘The Son (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation — if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel’.

I’m so happy to know that although I was once alienated from God and an enemy in my mind because of my evil behaviour, I have now been reconciled by faith in Jesus Christ and His dying love for me. So this amazing Jesus is just a childlike prayer away, spoken from the heart: ‘Sorry dear Lord Jesus for my sin. Thank you for dying for me, Please forgive my sins and come into my heart and life as my Saviour and Lord. Amen’. ….. now you are reconciled! Praise Him.

Wherever you are I wish you God’s blessing as we look forward to 2026

Matthew

Transitioning to Winter: Embracing Cold and Cheer

1st November and some flowers are still blooming!

This blog, for one reason or another, has taken a while to complete, so please bear with me as I give a resume of thoughts and photos from early November!

November – I always associate with cold, frost, and fog, and sometimes even snow, but this November it was interesting to see some flowers still in the garden, and trees in the p`ark with many leaves. Here are some photos taken on the first day of the month.

Autumn – Early November

When British Summer Time ended however, we were quick to see many changes. The sun is now low in the sky by 4pm, the shadows have lengthend, beaches are deserted, and dark nights are truly upon us. As temperatures in Scotland dropped below zero, and snow appeared on Ben Lomond and in the Highlands, and Christmas lights and decorations appeared in the shopping centres, we knew it was time for scarves and woolly hats, and time to switch on our electric blanket!

Nice to come home to a warm house on a frosty night

But just when I think it’s cold outside, I always remember our visit to NY. Alesund in the Artic Circle, for there the sun disappears at the end of October and only reappears again in early March – Whew, now that is something! It’s then that I appreciate how well off we are!

December: Now we are officially into the winter season, Christmas is just a few days ahead in our calendars, so families are busy getting ready. Special shopping expeditions for gifts; Christmas decorations, party jumpers and dresses, Christmas crackers, special food to purchase and prepare, all these and more are being organised and enacted.

Children are getting ready for their parts in Nativity plays, in schools and churches. My own church has a series of special events throughout the month that we are looking forward to.

Meanwhile, I’m trying to find a quiet corner to read on my Kindle this new book by John Lennox which I’m finding quite fascinating. It’s first and foremost a commentary on the last book of the Bible, the book of Revelation, which I am enjoying reading. However in his introduction he has also some interesting thoughts on this whole AI business, which he has written about in more depth elsewhere. See the interview about this book here, between John Lennox and Sean McDowell – https://youtu.be/mAfRswipXiE?si=5O9nLXn2BjSpb0j6

When it comes to change, surely AI (artificial intelligence) is the phenomena that is catching everyone’s attention these days. The reality is that in almost every field of human existence, AI is being used to create machines to do all kinds of work, which until recently was always done by people. Earlier this month it was reported here, that Dr Ricardo Hanel – a neurosurgeon in Florida used newly developed technology to carry out the first transatlantic surgery on a human body 4000 miles away in Dundee, Scotland. (G. Fraser – BBC Scotland) We have also recently been hearing that machines are being used for reading and examining x-ray and MRI scans, sometimes with a higher level of accuracy than humans. There are huge benefits envisaged in the development of AI, but also huge dangers, unemployment just being one of the many concerns John Lennox raises, especially in less developed countries.

I was interested to read in JL’s book, of some people’s ideas in the Western world that computer technology has replaced religion as the most credible hope of saving humanity in the future. They are said to predict that it is only a matter of time until science solves the problem of death, and eventually we will develop a race of super happy and intelligent transhumans. All this says John against the scientific ‘Doomsday Clock’ set in 1947 at 7 minutes to midnight, but moved in 2024 to 90 seconds to midnight!

So would you like to volunteer to be one of the first to be chosen to become one of the new super intelligent transhumans? To become God like? In this scenario, mankind is once again dreaming, just as Adam and Eve did when tempted in the Garden of Eden – Bible – Genesis chapter 3.

Whatever you think, take heart, for as John Lennox reminds us, the Bible tell us that these questions and much more, were resolved almost 2000 years ago. Yes, its Christmas again and as we stop and reflect on the reason for the season, we are reminded that Christmas is good news to all people. This is real trustworthy news. News so powerfully encapsulated in the words of the apostle John when he wrote “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16,17.

This message is still changing the lives of countless thousands all around the world today, as they come in repentance and faith to Jesus, and find forgiveness for sin, and accept the eternal life he freely offers, as they receive Jesus as Saviour and Lord. All over the world men and women are becoming one through faith in our Lord Jesus! I’ll finish with an incident that happened in my childhood.

Just after WWII when prisoners of war were allowed out of their prison camps here in Scotland, we had many German prisoners of war who attended our evening service at Greenview Church in Glasgow. At Christmas a large group of them stood together and sang in German ‘Still the night, Holy the night ……. Men we had thought of as enemies singing ‘Still the night, Holy the night, Son of God, love’s pure light, Love is smiling from thy face, Strikes for us now the hour of grace, Saviour since thou art born’. Wow!

Forgiveness can be hard at times, but you may remember that when Jesus taught his disciples to pray He included these words ‘and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us‘. Let’s consider puting these words into action this Christmas and on into 2026.

We sang this carol ‘Still the Night’ at our Senior’s Christmas Celebration last week. It’s sung in German as we recalled that memorable night in church all these years ago. The words are in English on the screen, so sit back and watch and listen, and let the wonder of the Christmas story touch your heart again, as it did mine. Watch on You Tube – (click the link and then the blue link)

https://youtu.be/PlV9Yuau8xM?si=sV798kF-otQTzeRJ

Before the end of the month I plan to show some of my favourite photos from 2025, but in the meantime I wish all my readers A Very Happy Christmas and God’s blessing in 2026.

Matthew

An Autumn Break in the Trossachs

It was lovely to have a few days in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park late in September, and although it was at the start of the Autumn season, the weather was more like a good day in summer here in Scotland!

We were staying in a beautiful little cottage at Gartmore, just a one hour’s drive from Glasgow, so this opened up to us some of our favourite haunts, and no surprise then, when I say we took lots of photos.

After a good night’s rest we headed for the ‘three loch forest drive,’ which you enter at the summit of the ‘Duke’s Pass’. It is a restricted area and to gain access there is a £3.00 charge at the entrance barrier. Speed is restricted to 10mph so it is a beautiful relaxed drive, with lots of stopping places, and walks and seats, and a picnic area with toilet facilities. We like to go in August when the heather is out, but the changing colours in the Autumn, in the trees and hedgerows made us think that September too, was also a great choice! So here’s a few pics from our Forest Drive.

As we left the forest drive trail we were very near to Loch Katrine so we had a walk and seat by the side of the loch, and before dinner took some sunset photos at the Lake of Menteith. Here’s some more photos.

On our final day we had an early morning visit to Kinlochard, and in the afternoon a drive over the hill to Callendar and the Woollen Mill there. Now some final photos!

At the Woollen Mill we smiled when we noticed they were selling bags of food to allow the tourists to feed the Highland cows! There is always someone with a novel idea for making a bob or two 🙂

Well it was nice to be away for a few days, without listening to the news bulletins, with their daily dose of bad news. and being able to eat out in the relaxed ‘Faerie Tree Restaurant’ in Aberfoyle in the early evening. Time then for a good read and another cup of tea before bed.

At that time I was reading Justin Brierley’s book ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism grew Old, and Secular Thinkers are considering Christianity again”. Early in the book he was quoting from the poem by Matthew Arnold – “the interesting thing about the sea of Faith is there’s no reason why it can’t come back in. The sea doesn’t only withdraw you know, it’s the point of tides.”

This is not the place for a book review, but I would recommend it, as it covers a wide range of topics which the writer believes points to a firm foundation for belief and faith in God.

Today I’ll close with a lovely Christian hymn speaking about the God of Creation.

Hope you enjoy the photos and this beautiful video.

So I wish you God’s blessing wherever you are, thanks for coming on to the blog, and I hope you’ll come again. You may like to subscribe.

Matthew

The Harvest is past, the Summer’s ended – 2025

It’s lovely to sit in the morning quietness and watch the sunbeams start to creep across the garden. To see the birds activity, and often to watch the resident squirrel do his morning inspection! Today being the 31st of August, this was the last morning of Summer in 2025 here in Scotland.

Tomorrow we enter Autumn, and ‘dead on cue’ the forecast is for rain and strong winds, so we can expect a ‘windfall’ of apples from our apple tree.

Tonight I’ve been looking back on this year’s summer and enjoying photos of places, flowers and the greenhouse etc. I hope you enjoy them. Firstly, the trip we made recently to the beautiful Isle of Bute on the Clyde Coast, which I promised in my last blog.

Now some other summer photos!

So the harvest is past, the summer ended ……….

I started my blog by saying ‘It’s lovely to sit in the morning quietness ….’ and it was there I had the thought for this blog’s heading. Many moons ago as a teenager I had sat in a church service and heard the preacher speak on a verse from Jeremiah 8:20. the full quotation was ‘The harvest is past, the summer has ended, and we are not saved” Jeremiah the Prophet of God who wrote them, warned his people to repent of their sins, but his message went unheeded, He therefore lived through a time of war, when the nation was attacked, and many were killed and many others taken captive. They had looked to others for help, but it had not come. His plaintive cry was “Oh, that my head were a spring of water and my eyes a fountain of tears! I would weep day and night for the slain of my people”. This was written in the seventh century BC.

I guess at times we all feel like weeping for people around the world who suffer in so many different and tragic ways. The statistics are mind blowing. Last year (2024) – 233,000 people are estimated to have been killed in armed conflicts. One Christian organisation that report on Christian persecution says 1 in 7 Christians are persecuted world-wide – 4,476 were murdered last year, 7,679 Churches and properties were attacked and 4,744 Christians imprisoned. Tearfund one of the UK’s leading charities, in their Autumn report speaks of an unprecedented increase in crisis. When we worked in Africa with this organisation, it was not uncommon for those around the table to say ‘If only we could stop the arms race for one year, thnk of what could be done with the money saved’.

So whilst people all around the world, men and women, boys and girls cry out to be saved, from war, famine. drought, persecution, abuse and poverty, Governments continue to increase military defence expenditure. In 2023/24 the UK budgeted £53 .9 billion and then budgeted £56.9 billion for 24/25 with a promised 2.2 billion uplift for 25/26. Worldwide in 2024 the figure is estimated to be US$2.718 trillion! That is $2,718,000.000,000 Wow!

Do you get the feeling that something is wrong with humankind? I’m reminded of the famous quote of G. K. Chesterton the author, philosopher and Christian apologist of the last century who responded to a newspaper article on this subject. He said, “Dear Sir. What’s wrong with the world? I am”. Yours G. K. Chesterton.

The preacher of my youth wasn’t slow to remind us that when we point the finger at others, four fingers point back at ourselves. For we are all far from perfect. Yes we are all children of Adam, and we might not say ‘Scotland first’, but act like it’s ‘me first’. You see it on social media regularly, ‘if someone annoys you, or doesn’t like you, the advice is ‘dump them’.

The Christian gospel is so counter cultural. We read in the book of Romans ‘… God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) and again, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him”. So the message is clear we ALL need to be saved from the consequences of our sins, and the only Saviour is Jesus Christ God’s Son.

Yes, like the leaders of our world past and present, we too will give an account. We don’t all automatially go to heaven, but are in danger of eternal separation from God (which the Bible calls hell) unless we turn from our sin and receive the free offer of Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Summer is past, time is moving on .. would you like to be sure that you will be in heaven? then act now … for it is written:

For he (God) says,
“In the time of my favour I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you.”
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.

Always happy to hear from you. I hope this short reflection will lead you to commit your life to Jesus Christ if you have not already done so.

Wishing you God’s blessing wherever you are – Matthew

Reflections on Life After Our Tiree Holiday

It seems no time at all since the end of April, when we were on holiday in the beautiful island of Tiree off the west coast of Scotland. Soon we were out and about on our various trips to many of our favourite picnic haunts, in some glorious Spring weather.

Now looking back I reflect on all that has happened since, which has caused us to re-evaluate our new circumstances and to ponder on how quick life can change. Before I expand on that let me share some photographs of our adventures in Springtime.

Yes we had an amazing holiday in Tiree, the weather was cool but beautifully sunny almost every day. We enjoyed slowly driving around the island and walking on the white sandy beaches and taking in the breathtaking beauty which surrounded us. It was the lambing season and signs of new life were everywhere, in the flowers, birds and young lambs and calves. Here are some photos, first showing our journey by car from Glasgow to Oban.

We had a night’s bed and breakfast in Oban and next morning caught the early morning ferry to Tiree via the Isle of Coll.

A week’s stay in Tiree was as usual a week of peace and tranquility, and somehow we always manage to enjoy many sunny days. Yes it was April, with still a cold wind so you need to dress appropriately. Too many photos to show, but here are some of this years favourites.

The following weekend was the May Spring holiday here in Scotland, and we had been kindly given some vouchers for sailing on the ‘Sir Walter Scott Steamship’ on Loch Katrine in the Trossachs area, within the National Park. We awakened to a beautiful morning with cloudless blue sky, and soon made our way across the Duke’s Pass to Loch Katrine. I am sure you will never get a better day than that day. The weather was absolutely glorious, this is a day trip highly recommended..

**Loch Katrine taken from the new viewpoint just above the pier**

The following day was not so exciting as after our Tiree week and our sail on Loch Katrine, I had to catch up with all the mail that had accumulated during our absence, so it was the day of sitting at the computer. That night at around 3am I had a stroke and was hospitalised for nine nights.

Thankfully I am well on the way to recovery, and again, thankfully my speech and mind were not affected; mostly my left arm and leg which are now functioning well, so I am hopefull that I can make a full recovery.

However, some things that come your way in life, bring you up with start. I had often been told that I was very fit for my age, and after my holiday and trip to Loch Katrine I certainly was feeling very well. Then as I lay in bed in hospital I was reminding myself of the verse in the book of Proverbs that says ‘Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.’ Prov. 27:1. whew, how true! All these summer plans were now on hold.

I have had many encouragements from family and friends near and far, in the way of visits, text-messages, cards, flowers, food and fruit juice, and even someone arriving at our door to help in the garden. So if you are one of those who are reading this, let me say a huge THANK YOU!

As a Christian I am truly appreciative for the many prayers spoken from my local Church family, and indeed from so many others around the world to our God and Father on my behalf. I believe that the progress made to date is in many ways an answer to them. I’m also thankful for the many Bible thoughts and verses sent and spoken to me, they are such an encouragement. Here’s just one:- ‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Rom.15:13

Yes, truly this is our sure hope in Jesus Christ and what he has promised to those who trust in Him, whether in life or death. I said to someone recently who had kindly wished me ‘all the best’ – thank you, but whatever happens, the best is yet to be‘- this is the Christian hope.

My stroke certainly got me thinking, and perhaps has got YOU thinking too? As I write news has just come in of 21 people involved in a balloon disaster in Brazil, first reports of 13 killed. The recent ‘AIR India’ disaster saw just one survivor out of 242 people on board. HOW SAD. It’s good to be ready don’t you think? Here’s a song that is special to me – have a listen

Matthew

PS: There has been much criticism of the NHS. Next time I would like to tell you of my experience.

Oh, to be in Scotland now that April’s here!

**Sitting in the garden, with sunshine and a blue sky is something special in April.**

Well, I know the famous poem by Robert Browning that many of us learned at school says, ‘Oh, to be in England’, so forgive me for stealing his strap line. However April has been a special month this year here in Scotland in 2025, with temperatures reaching 22.8 degrees C in the North, this against a seasonal average of around 13 degrees! This enabled us to get out and about, as is our want, and also to get many jobs done in the garden. Here are some garden photos.

Our outings to the local park, and to Loch Lomond, were all taken in the sunshine, which was a real bonus after the winter months. I hope the following photos encourage you to visit Scotland 🙂

We also had a lovely weekend with our family at Skelmorlie, near to Largs. Here are some photos taken there on the Clyde Coast.

In April we have also been enjoying our fellowship with friends at our Church in Pollokshaws, Glasgow, with participation in some of the many events that take place from week to week. You can see our programme and listen to our services at greenviewchurch.co.uk and on You Tube.

As I write this I am well aware of the fact that this is ‘Good Friday’, surely amongst the most significant and solemn dates in the Christian calendar. On this day we remember that Jesus Christ God’s Son finished the work His Father had given Him to do. The Apostle Peter writes to believers about it in his first letter recorded in the Bible at chapter 2:22-25 Writing about Jesus’ death Peter says, “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. ”When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”

But Sunday’s coming, surely the most joyous date in the Christian calendar for all who love Jesus! Perhaps we will sing one of my favourite hymns this Sunday morning! If you live in or around Glasgow, why not come and join with us as we celebrate? Details in the leaflet shown above.

Here are the words of one of my favourite Easter victory hymns :-

Low in the grave He lay, Jesus, my Saviour – Waiting the coming day, Jesus my Lord. Vainly they watch His bed, Jesus my Saviour – Vainly they seal the dead Jesus, my Lord. Death cannot keep his prey, Jesus my Saviour, He tore the bars away Jesus my Lord. Chorus (sung after each of the above stanzas) : Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o’er His foes; – He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign; He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!

So this is Scotland in April, it has been a great month, and I look forward to celebrating Christ’s resurrection this coming Sunday. I hope you are able to do that too, wherever you are.

Greetings from Glasgow – Matthew

Special Anniversaries for two outstanding 0rganizations

What first comes to mind when you think of Africa? As children we probably thought LIONS, and we were told of all kinds of wild animals and exotic creatures that lived there, but especially the lion that we called ”the King of the Jungle’! Never did I ever dream that one day I would live and work there, and see for myself some of these amazing wonders of God’s creation. Here’s a wee selection

But the main reason for my wife and I being in Africa was not to see the wildlife, but to work with Tearfund, a large UK Christian Relief and Development agency, working in city slums and also in remote areas, not only in Africa but around the world.

Working with Tearfund out of Nairobi in Kenya introduced us to many other organisations, and many different people groups, and today I would like to introduce you to one special organisation and one Trust working with a special peoples’ group, if you are not already acquainted with them.

Mission Aviation Fellowship – 80 Years of impact in Africa. MAF is not a new organisation, but still ‘new’ to many who have yet to hear of this charity flying to the world’s remotest communities! I had heard reports about MAF through our Church, but in Africa I got to experience their work at first hand. Not only did we personally fly with them, but my wife was often at the airport with messages, parcels and equipment that needed to be transported to colleagues working in some very remote places, or picking up or dropping off Tearfund passengers. If you are unfamiliar with their work I suggest you check out their website: maf-uk.org. You can also subscribe to their quarterly free magazine, which is always a great read. Here is a selection of some old photos illustrating the variety of their work.

**MAF hanger – Wilson Airport – Nairobi, Kenya**

‘Scottie” a Cessna Caravan – funded by Scottish Supporters – Commissioning at Prestwick Airport 2003

The Rendille – 40 Years transforming lives through literacy and Faith . Back in the early 1980’s the Rendille Language had not yet been put down on paper. The Rendille were nomadic people moving around the desert/wilderness of Northern Kenya with their camels, cattle and goats. Their ‘igloo’ type houses could readily be dismantled and bundled on to their camels as they searched for fresh vegetation and water. But not only an amazing people but an amazing couple. Nick and Lynn Swanepoel arrived from South Africa to live among the people, to decipher their language and to write it down. Then came the literacy classes, and the rest is history as they say! As Tearfund’s Manager for East African affairs it was a privilege to visit this programme over a number of years. Here are some pictures of these early days.

All the above photos were taken a long time ago, but what is happening among the Rendille today? Well the advancement over the last 40 years can only be described as phenomenal, so we give God thanks for all that has been achieved.. The vision of early pioneers to bring literacy to the Rendille, and to translate the Scriptures into their mother tongue has resulted in a well educated people up to secondary school standard, and many now with a `College certificate or a University Degree. Here are a few more highlights:-

The work of the Africal Inland Church has been greatly blessed with countless changed lives, new vision and new life in abundance within the community.
The New Testament in the Rendille language has been printed and distributed with great rejoicing, and work is well under way on other books of the Bible.
The establishment of the Tirrim Trust – www.tirrim.org has brought 5 new schools to the area, providing excellent facilities and a high standard of education as mentioned above. Today there are camps and special weekends for the young people and a bus to transport them around.
New literacy classes still provide reading and writing skills to many adults, new classes are still opening up in isolated areas.
Well drilling and the building of new water tanks continues as necessary

Too many things to tell here, check out the website above for yourself, and be inspired! Here are some recent photographs.

Who would have thought that two young airmen heading off to Africa in an old Wooden Miles Gemini plane in 1945 could lead 80 years on, to the amazing organisation that Mission Aviation Fellowship is today? Now flying 115 light aircraft in 31 different countries of the world, and flying in and out of 1,500 airstrips?

Or who would have dreamed that a young couple heading off to the wilds of northern Kenya to live amongst a nomadic tribe they did not know, whose lanuage they had yet to learn, write down and teach others to read and write, would lead to the amazing transformation amongst the Rendile people which we see today?

Both these stories have one thread in common – both the airmen and Bible translators recognised a need that they themselves could not meet, but they brought that need to God in prayer, and then moved forward in faith trusting the words of Jesus who said ‘Go …. and I will be with you always’ How amazing to see God’s guiding hand in both these stories, and now we stand back in awe and say ‘How great is our God’. Praise God also for the many men and women who have followed in their footsteps as they too have heard the voice of God speak into their hearts.

So what about you and me? Do we have a calling or an issue that we recognise we cannot solve in our own? We’ve tried this and that but nothing seems to work out. Bringing it to Jesus to seek His guidance and help is a well proved and tested approach, which I personally try to live by, – see Proverbs 3:5,6. If not yet a Christian we need to consider our sin problem which separates us from a loving God. The Bible speaks clearly about the impossibility of us solving this for ourselves, but then tells of God’s love in sending Jesus to be our Saviour and friend. Jesus took our sin to the cross, and suffered and died in our place. Now He invites us to come to Him, confess our sin, and invite Him into our lives to be our Lord and Saviour. Still time to come! Yesterday I was reading in the Bible Matthew 9:18-26 another two great stories with a remarkable ending. It tells of people who came to Jesus asking for help, and finishes with eye watering results! Do have a read!

Best wishes from Scotland, thanks for subscribing. Always glad to hear from you.

Matthew

Winter Days out and about in Scotland – February.

Descending from Glen Douglas to Loch Long

I have been saying to my wife recently that ‘we dont seem to be getting out and about so much these days‘, then I look at my photographs and think we are doing not too bad 🙂

The weather here has been a mix of frosty days, cold, damp, fog and gales and trorrential rain and with some lovely days in between. But what’s new? This is winter and this is Scotland!

Here are some photos of a trip we did on one of the better days in early February. Try and guess where we have been! It get’s dark around 5pm at this time of year, but it’s amazing where you can get to in just a few hours from Glasgow. We love this quiet glen in Argyllshire, shown below, it is just so peaceful and so beautifully designed.

From there we travelled to the end of the Gareloch where we turned right and drove over the hills to Cove and Kilcreggan on the Firth of Clyde. Later we headed home via Dumbarton and the Erskine Bridge, arriving just before dark.

Descending to Loch Long from Glen Douglas

If you would prefer something more sedate and cultural with a nice tea-room you would love a visit to The ‘Burrell Collection’, a beautiful museum set within Pollok Park on the South-side of Glasgow. It is visited by people from around the world. It’s a while since we were last there, but yesterday we spent the afternoon in the park and in the museum, and asked ourselves as we left, ‘why don’t we come here more often’? Here are some photos that may whet your appetite for a visit! The photographs below are just a small fraction of all that is on view!

The stunning creativity and ingenuity of humankind displayed within the museum, and the museum itself, is incredible and a joy to behold. All this within the beauties of our amazing planet and our incredible universe and solar system.

I then come home and listen to the nightly news bulletin – POW! I ask myself ‘what has gone wrong’? Internationally, nationally, locally, and within families and within me. How come? We can send a man to the moon, voyagers 1 and 2 to interstellar space, invent complex computers and mobile telephones, create the world wide web, discover ways and medicines to cure countless diseases, go to great lengths to save pets and endangered speices …BUT! …. I remember going to N.Ireland on business for the first time during the troubles . The chap who met me said, Welcome Matthew we are a friendly bunch of people here, the only problem is we still kill each other! Yea, just like people all around the world by bombs, guns, knives and words! Our prisons are bursting at the seams here in Scotland, so much so we are releasing prisoners early to make room for others. What is wrong with us?

If you are like me, we are having many charity letters through the door these days asking for help … for Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, West and Central Africa, The Middle East, …….. for those with leprosy, blindness, hunger, thirst, starvation …. all appealing for help. Meanwhile the UK Government today announced the Overseas Aid Budget will be reduced to increase our spend on defence. Mmm…

We should try to do better we say, but in spite of our best intentions it always seems to fall short. The Bible says in fact that all of us have sinned and fall short! Short of our own standard, and short of God’s standard.

At my church we work our way systematically around the books of the Bible. Last Sunday we were looking at The Gospel of John – Chapter three. The chapter that contains the words of Jesus, when he said “You must be born again”. How can you be born again when you are old the hearer asked…. but Jesus’ answer to him is essential to solving the problem of mankinds sin. If you would like to know how it is possible for you and I to be born again, log-on here and listen to pastor Colin Adams unpack these words of Jesus. Our eternal destiny depends on it. The sermon on the video below starts at 38.30 minutes in. I hope you find it helpful.

As always always – happy to have your feedback.

Greetings from Scotland, wherever you are – Matthew

2025 Another stage started on Life’s Journey.

IT’S BEEN A BUSY START!

This year we spent the first day of January with family and friends at Skelmorlie on the Clyde coast, at the home of my son Allan and wife Jacqui. The best of cuisine in the best of company. On the second day of January we met again at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for ‘The Messiah’ presentation by the Scottish National Orchestra and Chorus – absolutely beautiful and inspiring! To finish the day we had a tour around the centre of Glasgow to see the ‘Christmas lights’ before they were dismantled for another year! The following sunny but frosty day we made a visit to my daughter and son-in-law at Gartmore, and finally at the end of that first week we met with friends for our annual church day of prayer. Whew, yes a busy start! Photos follow.

A peaceful New Year;s Day with family and friends.

Winter by Robert Burns
The wintry west extends his blast,

Other special big events so far this year, included a trip to hospital with my wife who was having the first of two cataracts removed from her eyes. Thankfully she is already seeing much clearer and sharper in the one eye as a result. Also, we received news that our grand-daughter Lindsey and husband Jamie had presented us with another new great-grandson named Finn. Mother and child both well and now at home.

On a sadder note we have said our farewells on this earth to a number of our older family members and friends during the last few weeks. But we await with hope a reunion in a day to come in the presence of our risen and exalted Lord Jesus Christ.

A VISIT TO THE ROBERT BURNS MEMORIAL IN ALLOWAY, SCOTLAND

Here in Scotland, just exactly one month after Christmas, on the 25 January we celebrate Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns and his amazing poetical works. So since the weather turned a bit milder this week, we used our National Trust Cards to visit the thatched cottage where Robert Burns was born in Alloway, and the nearby Burns Museum and coffee shop. It’s well worth a visit if you haven’t been, or haven’t been for a while. Here are some photos, and a couple of short excerpts from two of his best known poems.

‘Tam o Shanter’ by Robert Burns ‘But pleasures are like poppies spread: You seize the flower, its bloom is shed; Or like the snow fall on the river,
A moment white – then melts forever

‘To a Mouse’ by Robert Burns

But Mousie, thou art no thy lane,
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best-laid schemes o’ mice and men
Gang aft a-gley, And lea’e us nought but grief and pain, For promised joy!

I love so many of Burn’s poems and songs, but perhaps my favourite is ‘The Cotters Saturday night‘ which gives such a great picture into family life for many here in Scotland away back in the eighteenth century. I have recorded my recitation of it on You Tube and you can listen to it here if you wish. https://youtu.be/2DJf4xWGZdg?si=huyDHOFIDWMY0lPK

I have seldom if ever, heard anyone quote the words of Robert Burns as he faced death, but in 1781 when that seemed imminent he wrote these words.

O Thou unknown, Almighty Cause of all my hopes and fears, in whose dread presence, ere an hour, Perhaps I must appear. If I have wandered in those paths Of life I aught to shun; As something loudly in my breast Remonstrates I have done.

The last verse says:

Where with intention I have erred, No other plea I have, But thou art good; and goodness still delighteth to forgive.

Sad to read of his uncertainty regarding his final eternal destiny, when it is possible to be sure! When we go on a journey we invariably have everything organised to the last detail, and particularly our final hotel/Guest House accommodation. Yet on our journey through life, thoughts of our final destination are often completely ignored. Our morning Bible reading today was from Matthew 7:13,14. where Jesus says
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.’ Jesus is the Gate! (John 10.9) and Jesus is the Way (John 14:6)

So in our current uncertain and unpredictable world where none of us knows what a day may bring, I would ask you, do you know the road you are on? and have you thought of your final destination? In the bible the Apostle John writing to Christians in his first letter says ‘And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.’ (1 John 5:11,12)

Time to check it out?

Until next time – I wish you God’s blessing wherever you are.

Matthew

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