Dear Friends,

This month has seen the confirmation of Steve McLaren as the new manager of the England football team for which the selection process has been the subject of much debate, speculation and scrutiny by the press and football fans alike. This month has also seen elections held for local councils with reporters saying the results would reflect peoples’ feelings towards the leadership of the Labour government and in particular the Prime Minister Tony Blair.

When we see what scrutiny and criticism those in high profile public positions of leadership are exposed to, it might make us wonder at times why people put themselves forward for these roles. There will always be others highly critical of any decision that they make. The saying that you can’t please all of the people all of the time is very true indeed! I believe that what motivates most people to take on these positions is a self belief that they can make a difference for good with a team or in government.

There is another saying that people are slow to praise but quick to criticize. Yet, everyone makes mistakes at times. After all, we are only human and I am sure none of us when we make a mistake like to be criticized. We certainly would not like to be subject to the criticism the Prime Minister or England football manager is exposed to if something goes wrong for them.

Let us take to the heart the words of the only Person who was and is perfect, Jesus Christ, when He said ‘Do not judge or you too will be judged..” (Matthew 7:1). Instead let us be quick to praise people for the good things they do, whether it is the England manager, the Prime Minister or the next person we meet. The world needs more praise and less criticism and after all most people do try to make a difference for good so let’s praise God and each other more!
May God bless you,

Paul Wood
Captain