“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” - James 4:10
Just over a year ago, life was as it always was: we could go from one place to the other without any issue. Now we can't. This time last year, I had finished a sponsored walk from Westminster to Rochester Cathedral. On the last day, Fr Ged Walsh was able to join me. It had started as just a grey day and the weather forecast had said "light showers". Unfortunately, there was nothing 'light' about the showers we experienced, but we still enjoyed the walk (ish). Kent is a truly beautiful county and the Shrine of Saint Jude sits in the heart of the county in Faversham.
Here are some photos from a year ago..
"For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him". - Colossians 1:16
Whilst we think about nature, let us ponder the poem below by William Wordsworth:
I wandered lonely as a cloud I wandered lonely as a cloud Continuous as the stars that shine The waves beside them danced; but they For oft, when on my couch I lie |
The poem above encompasses the thoughts of the poet after he has wandered over the hills with their never-ending row of enchanting flowers. They impressed him so much that he compares them with the sparkling stars of the galaxy. He is captivated by the startling view of nature. This everlasting impact, triggered by nature, often serves as a delight for the poet, when he feels low or lonely at home.
Likewise, we should remember that nature will carry on whilst we are all in lockdown and we should (in our solitude) try and picture those vales, hills, trees, and golden daffodils that we have visited before lockdown. It is therefore important to remember that it is all out there for us waiting and we can enjoy it (respecfully) once more.
Let us pray…
Dear Mother earth,
Who day by day unfolds rich blessing on our way,
O Praise God! Alleluia!
The fruits and flowers that verdant grow,
Let them his praise abundant show.
O praise God, O praise God, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.
- Saint Francis
This week, let us also pray for all healthcare workers:
Loving God, we place into your care all our doctors, nurses and healthcare workers. Give them courage of heart and strength of mind and body. Keep them safe from harm.
May they know our deep gratitude for all they are doing to heal and help those affected by the coronavirus. God of all consolation, may they know your protection and peace.
Bless them in these challenging days and bless their families.
Lord in your mercy, hear us.
Saint Jude, pray for us.
Mr Matthew Betts