Thanks for allowing me to serve you!

I am not the most disciplined when it comes to doing things. Regardless of what those 'things' maybe. I have never been known for having a tidy work bench, desk or even motor car. In fact I offered the local minister and his wife a run home from the city the other day, and it was only after we arrived at the car - my 'skip on wheels' that I remembered just how untidy it was. I apologised for the mess and delivered them safely home.

My only thought when I offered them a lift was, why wait on a bus, when we could all be home that much earlier by car.

I found it a privilege and pleasure to be able to serve them in a small way. I have not been able to attend the services recently, but I can honestly say it has always been a joy to listen to an able communicator at work. Clear and concise and not too long winded. Must have learned his craft in the school of 'the head can only take in what the seat can endure'.

They will soon be retiring from the Church and are looking forward to that experience with a deal of trepidation. It probably will not be easy but I am sure they will be fine.

• Ever wondered what a shepherd does when he retires and does not have the soft calling of the sheep in his ear every day, with their moans and groans?
• Continually looking for fresh pasture for his sheep not wanting them to be undernourished.

Reminds me of the story I heard at a conference 20-25 years ago by a 'real' shepherd. His sheep were continually going over the wall. He would find them miles away on another farmers land. He would bring them home and they would settle for a few days, then off they would go again. only to be found miles away! This went on for a few months until he decided he had better investigate the matter.

They always seemed to land up in the same place, so he went and had a conversation with the farmer. He asked him how he organised his farm, took notes and also samples of the feed and grazing. He sent the grass of for analysis to the local agricultural college along with samples of his own grass and feed.

The answer came back and he was amazed the two samples showed that the other farmer's grazing was far richer in nutrients than the home pasture. The college suggested ways of improvement, the shepherd did just that the result the sheep did not stray!

I think that is the essence of Psalm 23 keep it simple and keep it fresh.

Thanks! Its my pleasure!