TRACY’S STORY

My journey with Jesus has been what some onlookers would call ‘unremarkable’. For this reason, I rarely tell it as the stories of other Christians are so much more exciting and eventful! However, mine is the story that so many others probably share – finding Christ day by day in the actions of others. I have been a part of the Burghfield Common Methodist Church for most of my life, and have witnessed many acts of Christian loyalty, love and kindness.
When I was a small child, an elderly member of the church called Mr. West never ceased to surprise me with his devotion to the little chapel (as he called it) on the Reading Road. He would mow the lawns, plant the garden and be there, come rain or shine, to open the doors (twice on Sunday) and hand out the hymn books. As a young child, I remember his shiny, bald head glinting in the sunlight and his love of Christ seemed to flow from every crease in his cheery smile.
There was another lady called Lily Yearn who always wore a hat to church on Sunday! She sang the hymns with pride and beamed at all the young folk who came to Sunday school and who later attended an evening service and church group for teenagers. She remembered everyone’s news, families and any challenges they might be having. During my first lonely term at Lancaster University at the tender age of eighteen, I remember somebody calling for me down the hall to say I had had a letter. This caused great excitement and when I opened it, it was from dear Lily Yearn – she had words of advice and comfort and of course, news of the village. I shall never forget her kindness.
I felt the same Christian love when, in another low and painful time in my life, I had an understanding phone call from Mary Bushnell. She was so patient, kind and wise and the call came just at the time I needed it. Again, I shall never forget it.
There are many members of the church now, who are a wonderful witness to Christ’s love and compassion. I have known them all my life and they never fail to amaze and support me at every opportunity.
My journey with Christ has, for me, been quite ‘remarkable’. To me, Jesus has been like an true friend, always there, always true, always listening and always strong. In today’s language he could be a friend who I have forgotten to message or remember at certain times; he may have been ‘missed off an invite list’, not ‘cc d on email’ or overlooked on occasion! But for me, he is forgiving and welcomes me back at every opportunity. He bears no grudge, ill feeling or resentment – just offers support, love and friendship.
So it is with gratitude that I remember Church members from the past and appreciate those today. When I was confirmed in 1981 I was given a Bible with a reference to Acts chapter 1 v 8: “You will be my witness for me.” Like Christians before us, we constantly try to be worthy witnesses. We often fail, but I believe God loves us all the same and he loves the fact that we keep on trying!!
Tracy