I discarded some of it, but kept most in case ‘it may come in use later …’ and one of the more interesting items found skulking in the tray was a list of the Channel 4 television viewers write-it-yourself Ten Commandments. Channel 4 viewers’ Commandment number 5 was: “Do not steal” so nothing new there, nor was there anything new in their commandment number 4: “Be honest (do not lie)” nor in number 3: “Do not kill”. But at position number 1 was written something quite new for the Ten Commandments: “Treat others as you would have them treat you”.

It’s not original though, is it? Do you recognise where those words come from? I’ll tell you; they are the words of Jesus to hordes of people who had come to listen to his teaching from all over the Judean region, from Jerusalem and the coastal towns of Tyre and Sidon.

They are words which have echoed down the centuries to people all over the world. That particular line: “Treat others as you would have them treat you” sounds simple enough but it can, in some cases, be the hardest thing to do, as can other aspects of Christ’s teaching.

As we start a new Methodist year I would ask that you read the gospel extract (printed at the top of the next page) from which that line is taken, and realise the depth of the request that Jesus is making of us all. Let’s ask ourselves whether we are really putting this teaching into action in our thinking, in our personal lives, and in our Church. Let it be a mission statement for each one of us.

Blessings, and welcome back Peter!