05/01/2021

A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with Dr Krish Kandiah

Good Morning.

“It will be alright in the end, if it is not alright then it is not the end.” These words are spoken by one of the characters in the movie Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. The film tells the story of a group of British senior citizens seeking a new start in life in a hotel in Jaipur, India. Right now, stuck in the UK in cold January, I wish I was one of those hopeful travellers setting out for new adventures in warmer climates before the world ends.

Every January my retired father disappears to Malaysia to soak up the sunshine and avoid the gloomy British weather – not this year of course. His end of life slogan is not so catchy: don’t come for my funeral, son, just make sure you don’t miss the traditional Malaysian 30th day celebration.

I prefer the ending the prophet Malachi offers in the Bible 2,600 years ago. It is far less depressing than my father’s, and even more trustworthy than the film’s. It may sound like the forecast of good weather or a feature in a travel brochure, but it is so much more.

“But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.” Malachi 4:2

Those of us who trust in God can face this new year knowing a dawn is coming where wrongs will be put right, wounds will be healed, and true joy, freedom and satisfaction will be experienced. It turns out the end will be just the beginning.

Dear Lord God

May the light of your goodness heal our broken hearts and bruised spirits.

Give us the hope of joy and the joy of hope.

Amen.