I am composing this blog post at a height of 41000 feet, the outside temperature is minus 45 degrees C and we are crossing the Atlantic Ocean at a speed of 646 mph. In two hours we should land at London Heathrow.
The past week has been rich with new experiences, new friendships and new questions. As so often happens at the end of a week like this I find myself asking questions. Why did I come? How has the week changed me? Have I missed any of the opportunities it offered because of my own prejudices or preconceived ideas?
The fellowship has been rich. Conversations shared with people whom I had never met and may never meet again. Acquaintances begun which may blossom and develop over the future. Friendships deepened with those alongside whom I have lived and laughed this week.
We are currently flying through turbulence and the cabin crew have come around patiently but persistently checking that our seat belts are fastened. I am typing this with some difficulty as the plane bumps and judders through the air. As I write I am reflecting on the miracle of flight, which has enabled this week of global encounter.
I shall post this after we have landed at Heathrow, probably as I complete the last leg of my journey home by train back to Devon. As our dawn flight continues I cannot help but recall the words of the psalmist: If I take the wings of the morning or dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there shall Thy hand guide me and Thy right hand shall hold me.
More reflections on this amazing week will follow in the coming days. Thank you if you have prayed for us or sent messages of support during our time away. Please continue to pray especially for Alison Judd as she embarks on her journey as new World President of the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women, and for Carolyn Lawrence and for Rachel Allison in their respective roles. Alison and Carolyn have stayed on for a further day of meetings in Houston, whilst the rest of us have journeyed home or on to other places.
