“Heart and Soul”
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult… “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11
Cancelled or postponed, due to COVID 19. Everything. And as we cope with what that means to us, in term of health and well-being, relationships, work and financial implications, and the impact on society’s most vulnerable souls, we are also dealing with profound disappointments. Special events, celebrations, educational programmes, travel plans, as well as those gatherings and activities that keep us on an ‘even keel’ are no longer in the picture. And we are living with unsettledness concerning when things might return to ‘normal’. For some it is relatively easy to let go of those letdowns; others become overwhelmed and despairing. My mother often said, “This too shall pass.” And although I often did not believe her, in my teenage years, her wisdom resonates now!
We, as the Body of Christ, the church, continue to care for one another, and for the world beyond our front doors. As we reach out, by telephone, e-mail and social media, let our listening be sincere, our comments be full of compassion and understanding, our support be unequivocal. Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 Be respectful and encouraging and the voice of calm comfort. If need be, protect others from those who would take advantage of them, and perhaps even from themselves. Our Lord will act in wonderful and unexpected ways, through us, to show, in word and deed, that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” And for all those anticipated special occasions which we missed, there will be others to enjoy, in time.
This photograph, taken by Deb McIntyre, is of the new frontal “Spirit Ablaze”, created by a fabric artist within our congregation to celebrate 50 years of Wedded Love. It was to be blessed at our Episcopal Visit last Sunday. COVID 19 shut us down and that was a great disappointment to all who had prepared for Confirmation and Reception into the Anglican Church as well as their brothers and sisters in Christ in the parish. The roses above would have graced the Altar. We will reschedule!