The Epworth & Belton Group of Churches

Reflection for July 2026 - Travelling with God

July is a month when many of us find ourselves on the move. Some will be setting off on holiday, others visiting family and friends, while for many life simply continues with its familiar journeys—to work, to the shops, to church, or a walk around the village on a warm summer’s evening.

Last month during our time in Northumberland, Karen and I spent a day on Lindisfarne. Because we had carefully planned our visit around the tide times, we found ourselves with the island almost to ourselves. There was no rush, no crowds, just the freedom to wander. We walked the ancient paths, watched the wildlife going about its business, listened to the gentle lapping of the waves on the shingle beach as we ate our lunch, and smiled as curious seals bobbed in the water, seemingly keeping an eye on us. Above us, the weather changed by the minute as great storm clouds gathered, reminding us how quickly life can change, yet how beautiful each moment can be if we take time to notice it.

It struck me that there is a difference between being a tourist and being a pilgrim. A tourist is often focused on the next destination or attraction. A pilgrim, however, understands that the journey itself has something to teach. There is time to pause, to notice, to wonder, and to become more aware of God’s presence along the way.

Perhaps that is how God often meets us—not only in great events or life-changing moments, but in the ordinary places we might otherwise hurry past. A conversation with a neighbour, the laughter of children enjoying the school holidays, the beauty of our churches and villages in the summer sunshine, or even the quiet rhythm of everyday life can all become gentle reminders that God is walking beside us.

The writer to the Hebrews speaks of God’s people as those who were “strangers and foreigners on the earth” (Hebrews 11:13). They knew that their true home was with God, yet they also discovered that he was present with them throughout the journey.

We too are pilgrims, not simply passing through life, but travelling with purpose, hope and the assurance that Christ accompanies us every step of the way.

As we enjoy the gift of July, may we resist the temptation to rush from one thing to the next. Instead, may we pause long enough to notice the signs of God’s love that surround us each day. Whether our journeys take us many miles or simply around our own communities, may we discover afresh that the Lord walks beside us, quietly encouraging, guiding and renewing us. And may that knowledge fill us with peace, joy and confidence for whatever lies ahead.

Prayer

Loving God, thank you for walking beside us on every journey of life. Help us to slow our pace, to notice your presence in the ordinary moments of each day, and to trust you wherever the road may lead. Fill our hearts with hope, peace and joy, and keep us faithful as we journey with you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

With every blessing for July

Paul

Revd Canon Paul Wilson

Rector of the Epworth Group of Churches

Priest-in-Charge of the Belton Group of Churches

Assistant Curate of the Crowle Group of Churches and the Haxey and Owston Ferry Plurality

Rural Dean of the Isle of Axholme Deanery