Gilling East's Holy Sundial

In the grounds of Holy Cross Church at North Yorkshire’s Gilling East is a petite, eighteenth century sundial. Upon is written Non numero nisi serenas Horas which may be translated: 'I count only the hours that are bright'. It was erected by the parish rector, Rev Nicholas Gouge, or in his memory, around 1755. Sundials are ineffective in the shade, and positively useless at night. Only the days or broad and beaming sunshine do they register and observe time’s passing.

Too often we are inclined to record and monitor others’ failings, faults and flaws. Those bad memories we retain, the list of slights and wrongs we diligently memorise and recite when occasion demands. We might do better to celebrate the better times, recall the kindnesses and give thanks for the blessing. The rest, we can leave with God.

With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 (New King James Version)