At the time of writing this it’s Good Friday, and what a different day and Easter weekend it will have been for us all this year. We’re listening to radio a lot more and gathering virtually and spiritually together with friends and family via video calls, emails, phone calls, and prayer.
There’s something reassuring and rather special knowing that you are reading, watching, listening, or praising at the same time as others throughout the world. The community clap each Thursday evening at 8pm to show our appreciation to the NHS, carers and many support workers has provided a real sense of community spirit and strength. It’s also lovely being able to catch up across the road regularly with our neighbours, from our respective driveways, and share in this united caring act. We are truly in this together.
One of our neighbours is a volunteer nurse and another is working with the fire brigade. It is hard to truly imagine what each of their days are like and just how challenging their duties and responsibilities are, both physically and emotionally.
Whatever challenges we are faced with we will not be challenged beyond what we can cope with. “Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
On Good Friday in particular we remember the physical and emotional torment and suffering of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, Wonderful Counsellor, Prince of Peace, King of Kings, the Servant King as he bore the cross to save our lives. He came not to be served but to serve. To fulfil Gods will. The greatest expression of love and grace for each of us. The events of Easter weekend are both a witness and evidence for us today that death, once and for all, has been defeated. It is finished!
Keep looking out for each other, especially those who live alone, we all need each other. Our prayer is that we will all emerge out of this challenging time stronger and more united in love and peace, and filled with God’s grace in all we say and do.
Keep safe and well.