From the Manse  July 2002

The World Cup is still on as I write this.  No one asks “The World Cup for what?”  Everyone knows!  Yesterday England went out, defeated by Brazil. I’d still like to see Turkey and Korea in the final, making a refreshing change for world soccer.  By the time this is read probably I’ll be proved wrong.

What enthusiasm we have seen!  The flag of St George has been flying from house and shop windows, from cars and lorries, the colours have decorated T-shirts, and face paints have left no one guessing whose side is supported. It has been the open topic of conversation, inhibited people have spontaneously aired their opinions.  The event has achieved unprecedented results by bringing the country to a halt, whether at lunch time on a Saturday or at breakfast time midweek.

Koreans and Turks and other national groups living or working in this country have expressed their overflowing delight of their native lands success.  These exuberant expressions of fervour have not matched the “sedate” English reaction.

Throughout we have witnessed a resurgence of nationalism.  This is not to be feared. It is right for people to be proud of their nation.  True nationalism is the celebration of all that is good in a country, its sport, as well as its culture of music, art, poetry and drama, dance, architecture, technology and science.

These are unique to each society. True nationalism is when looking inward we affirm the best we have, and then turning outward we share it with others whom we hope will benefit as much from it as we have.

Now with all this enthusiasm going on, I have some deep stirrings in my heart. If only Christian witness were like this.  If only we freely talked of our Saviour. If only we supported our Lord and His Church with such commitment. If only others knew whose side we are on. If only we held high the cross! 

Then perhaps the world would stop and take notice, or even like the early Christians we could be accused of turning the world upside down.

Robin Davies