Heralds of good news

The classic Monty Python sketch ‘Four Yorkshiremen’ is an iconic example of a great British hobby: competitive complaining. Looking back on their childhoods with nostalgia, the four men gleefully try to outdo one another with their absurd tales of hardship and deprivation.

When grumbling about everything from the weather to our busy schedules is such a common part of our small talk in Britain, a determination to speak positively is genuinely counter-cultural. That’s not to say that we should shy away from speaking honestly about hard truths, such as the urgency of the climate crisis. But we are people who have good news to celebrate; the good news of God’s presence with us through Jesus Christ. We can face every challenge because of the hope that comes from knowing God has not given up on us or our planet.  

Remember, we don’t need to physically go up a mountain to speak hopeful words to others! Your most natural platform might be over the dinner table, at the supermarket checkout, or on social media.

Ever-present God, thank you for the hope that you have brought to my life, and the hope you give for the whole world. Lift me up in the times that I feel grumpy and cynical, and give me courage to speak words of good news wherever they are needed. Amen.