Dear Friends,
This Sunday marks the half way point in Lent. Traditionally it is when we have Mothering Sunday with all its associations: returning to our mother church for those in service and having Simnel cake. Today, we reflect the themes of where and in whom our roots are vested as we remember our mothers, and the shops sell us flowers, chocolates, and restaurants are very busy too.
This year there has been some controversy that the half marathon falls on this day. The inconvenience of closed roads, disrupted journeys and plans have been commented on.
For our church not to hold a service of worship gives us the opportunity to serve the public and sometimes the runners themselves, with refreshments and toilets. It is a good chance to express hospitality and be among the people.
For several weeks on a Sunday I have spotted people running the route of the course in their preparation for the half marathon. It is harder to do it in practice, as you can’t use the roads to run on and the traffic is a constant presence. You also have no refreshment points or the crowds cheering you on. It is still only a rehearsal for the real thing.
Drawing nearer to Holy Week, we can compare Jesus’ rehearsal for the real experience of those first Easter events. His whole life was a rehearsal. How he treated people, who he prioritised in his ministry, how he faced opposition and threats to his safety, telling stories of the kingdom, breaking down preconceptions of God’s grace, inviting people to follow him, showing the way of faith.
Our practicing of Holy Habits, our rehearsing the God story in our lives, our serving others and seeking to make a difference for the kingdom in the familiar and unfamiliar places and times is far more like a marathon than a sprint.
Peace
Tim