I’m currently reading: “Between Living and Dying: Reflections from the edge of experience” by Ruth Scott, & “The Missing Peace” by Chris Whittington.
Whilst writing this I am listening to: Easter Lily EP by U2
Fun Fact of the week: In Switzerland, it is illegal to own only one guinea pig because they are social animals and need a companion.
[I wonder whether a similar law might work for humans?]
You might, although it is highly unlikely, be wondering what happened to Episode #22 of my weekly newsletters? Well, I was on holiday in the Isle of Wight with my extended family last week and so thought I would take a break from the weekly communications. So, episode #22 will forever be the missing document that historians of the future will fruitlessly search for. It was a good time away and I particularly enjoyed getting in the sea each day (with a wetsuit on). I enjoy bobbing around in the vast waters. When praying I sometimes use an image of sinking through endlessly deep waters to let go and rest in the God who holds me, surrounds me, and contains unimaginable depth and mystery. What some people find pretty scary then I find strangely comforting. I wonder what image of God brings you peace?
The Easter celebrations at St. James from Maundy Thursday through Good Friday, Easter Saturday, culminating on Easter morning were very special times of worship together. I am always very aware that the events of Easter Sunday only make sense when we journey with Christ through the preceding days. Resurrection is a gift that bears, but ultimately brings glorifies and transfigures, the scars of betrayal and loss.
The celebration of Holy Communion on Easter morning is my favourite moment of the church year. Not just because I get to sing in Latin a few times (although that is a large part of it!) but there is such a glorious relief in coming home to our Creator and Redeemer and discovering the light that never dies, the Christ who walks with us, the love of God that remains steadfast throughout all the struggles of the year past.
We light our Easter Candle every Sunday throughout the Easter Season (until Pentecost on May 24th) to remind us of these resurrection truths, that we have a God who is risen from the dead, and continues to bring the hope and joy of this resurrection into our world today.
There is a lot happening in the week ahead so do check out the “What’s On” part of my communications today.
As always, if you would like me to pray for, or have a conversation about anything then do get in touch. I am available to listen and share in whatever might be arising for you at this time.
"Nothing can separate us from the love of God revealed to us in Christ Jesus" Rom 8:38-39
With peace and blessings,
Rev Steve
07503164309
My day of rest this week is Monday.