The Epworth & Belton Group of Churches

Rector's Reflection for August 2026 - Finding Joy in the Abundance

August on the Isle of Axholme has a wonderful, golden warmth to it, doesn’t it? As we move through summer, the hedgerows along our lanes are laden with berries and fruit, the fields are turning to rich gold and are now being harvested and baled, and there is a quiet, joyful rhythm across our villages. Whether it’s children enjoying the summer holidays, neighbours chatting over garden fences, or the parishes gathering for summer events, this season gently reminds us of the richness woven into the fabric of our everyday lives and community.

It brings to mind a TV programme I was watching recently featuring a wildlife photographer who runs a smallholding in rural Wales. As the camera panned across his meadow, pond, polytunnel, and garden, the screen was practically bursting with vibrant life and growth—bees buzzing, vegetables thriving, and nature flourishing in every corner. What struck me was how none of it was striving or straining; creation was simply being what it was made to be, blooming under the gentle care of the keeper and the summer sun.

Life in our wider world often urges us to focus on what is lacking or what comes next – what we don’t have - yet these glimpses of creation softly whisper a different truth: God’s grace is already here, bountiful and present right in the middle of our ordinary days.

In his letter to the Philippians, Saint Paul reminds us of this joyful perspective: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).

This isn't a summons to pretend that life is always easy or without worry. Rather, it’s an invitation to notice the small, quiet joys that God scatters along our path—a kind word from a friend, the warmth of the sun, or the comfort of a shared cup of tea. It is an assurance that, amidst all the changing scenes of our society and daily routines, the goodness of God is steadfastly at work.

As we enjoy these bright, warm August days together across our surrounding parishes, may we hold open hearts to the beauty around us. Whatever this month holds for you, may you know the quiet certainty of God’s constant love, carrying us forward into the season ahead with hope and trust.

Generous and loving God,

We thank you for the warmth of summer, the beauty of creation, and the blessing of our local community.

Open our eyes to notice your presence in the ordinary moments of today.

Fill our hearts with your quiet joy,

and grant us grace to reflect your light and kindness to those around us.

We place our trust in your enduring faithfulness, now and always.

Amen.

Wishing you every joy and peace this August,

Revd Paul

The Revd Paul Wilson

Rector of the Epworth Group of Churches

Priest-in-Charge of the Belton Group of Churches

Assistant Curate of the Crowle Group of Churches and the Haxey and Owston Ferry Plurality

Rural Dean of the Isle of Axholme Deanery