Spring in the air (7 September)

Dear Friends,

After a hectic few weeks I am trying to ring-fence some downtime. I am writing this on Thursday after coming home from the Eucharist at St James. What an inspiring morning we had sharing today’s gospel alongside Paul’s letter to the Colossians in v 9–12 of chapter 1: We have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. What inspiring and uplifting words to be reflected on.

This is the joyous aspect of meeting together on a Thursday when we have an interactive discussion. These words from St Paul lifted me up today as I prepare another funeral in the parish where I grew up, for someone I have known for 50 years.

How wonderful it is to feel Spring in the air even with occasional showers. Blossom trees abound and gardens are bursting into colour. How blessed we are by a change of season.

I wish you and those you love rich blessings,
Linda