The present moment is all that we have. Yet, many of us, me included, can find it incredibly difficult to live fully in the present. The past can be an idealised escape from the challenges that need to be faced now.

Living too much in the future is another challenge for us, especially if we know that we will be moving on. To a new school, job or getting married. In July we had our leavers retreat days at St Peter's Church.

80 children came to us over two days, from five local schools. They reflected on pictures from Peter, one of Jesus disciples and did various crafts, greatly enjoying the present moment.

If we just mark time in our present employment or situation, we risk throwing away large periods of our lives. We are not living fully at all, but existing where we are while our hearts lie elsewhere.

In prayer if parts of our concerns and interest are in one place and parts in another it will be difficult to open ourselves to God in the stillness. We need to be in the present moment so that we can meet God there. This way leads to action, reaching out to our neighbours in need with great love.

Over the holidays our children or grandchildren will be riding their bikes, playing football, making crafts and playing with friends. Children do things because it is fun, not because it will pave the way to a successful career.

Children have the ability to be absorbed in the present moment and have much to teach us about the gift of the present moment.

Peter the disciple of Jesus says, “Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or place to stay.” (1 Peter 4:7-8)