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I never enjoyed the Annual Commemorative Assembly at Debenham High School. The Headmaster was giving his review of the year to assembled parents, prize winners and pupils. Such reviews are never honest because they omit all the bad things that happen. If schools were judged by the Headmaster's annual address they would all be establishments of unsullied worth. I was not the only one who failed to be stirred by the proceedings. The trio of boys sitting next to me were bored witless. Ian Baldry just could not sit still. He kept trying to toe end the substantial bottom of young Willy who sat in front of him. The only occasions when Ian sprung to life were the opportunities for clapping. At last there was something for him to do! He clapped and clapped and clapped. He would be clapping now if I had not stopped him.
After the Assembly there was a buffet in the school lunch hour where prize winners, parents and honoured guests could mingle with staff. Now I am anti-social and sometimes just plain cussed - especially after a tedious hour and a half of bland remarks. So I decided that I wouldn't go - but spend my time skulking in the staffroom with the rebellious remnant. It wasn't long before there was a knock on the door. Katie, a prize winner and the previous years head girl, had come looking for me. Well I went out to see her. Katie said, "Where have you been hiding, Mr Reed?" Then she opened her arms wide. Without reservation or embarrassment I committed myself to those open arms and her goodwill. "Now then, Mr Reed, you must come to the buffet and I will introduce you to my parents," she continued. Her goodwill broke my resistance down and I went . I even went in high spirits. I was jolly and enjoyed it.
I thought that I would be happiest in the staff room but I was happier at the buffet. I enjoyed more abundant life at the buffet. When Jesus came to earth he came with arms wide open. He came to show God's goodwill to men. It is only as we submit to those open arms and that invincible good will that we experience the truth of Jesus' words:
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