It is May and we seem to be moving hesitantly towards summer.
And even more hesitantly towards a gradual easing of the restrictions that have been so much of our lives for the past weeks.
Here at Breathing Space, the garden is blooming. Perhaps appreciating the extra time Lois and Peter have been able to give to it. Perhaps appreciating more the warm, dry spring after such a cold, wet winter. As we spend time in the garden, we are very aware that we, too, are creatures, dependent on our creator, and – at best – partners in the work of nurturing beauty, goodness and life.
We long to be able to share this goodness and beauty with others. And as we look ahead, we will look for ways in which we can do so safely as the restrictions are lifted. In the meantime, we will do what we can to share some of this in other ways: through our regular evening prayer (this week with the giggly delight of Anna and Beatrice bringing their youthful vivacity to the prayers); through a gentle springtime garden walk with Lois; through a series of meditations using the art of Sieger Köder – this Sacred Time.
There is much to appreciate in the graceful mystery of this time. However, in all of this, we remain acutely aware of the vulnerability of so many – those who are ill, bereaved, fearful of their future; the workers in our NHS, social care and other essential services, working flat out and carrying the strain of caring for others; those without financial resources or buffers; those who are isolated, lonely or anxious. We want to hold them before the Holy One, in gentleness and strength; to cry out for the pain of our world, and to look forward in hope to a new day.
We leave you with the blessing we pray every day in our evening prayers:
May the gentleness and strength of God
The delight and vulnerability of the way of Christ
And the graceful mystery of the Holy Spirit
Be with us now and always.