Letter from the Master – March 2010

Thursday, March 4th, 2010 | Letter from the Master

It is often ‘waiting’ that is the hardest thing to do. We need to be encouraged to explore our attitude towards waiting for God to act or waiting upon him, in his presence, just to be transformed by him, prepared for whatever the future may hold.

Jesus had to wait for his public ministry to begin – he spent time in the wilderness soaking up the isolation and the painful temptations put before him, and yet overcame that period of time stronger and then, filled with the Holy Spirit, was able to begin his public preaching, teaching and healing ministry.

The origin of the season of Lent, as you may well recall, is not just reminiscent of Jesus’ time in the wilderness, which is an important and secondary theme for the season, in which Christians undertake rigorous soul searching in the lead up to the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus – but Lent was first undertaken by baptismal candidates. It was seen as the final preparation before initiation into the Church in the Easter liturgy, and also those at that time who had been excommunicated by their sin were re-admitted after a period of penance.

As we approach Holy Week and Easter we have another chance to explore that time of waiting as we lead into the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus. On the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week we have a Compline service and address. On Maundy Thursday there is the Holy Eucharist which then leads into our vigil. On Good Friday there is the Liturgy & Meditation (12-3pm) service with Ann Lewin leading the Meditations; and on Easter Day we celebrate that Christ is Risen!

So why not during this Lenten time reflect upon how we might use our time more effectively for the Lord, as we continue to learn what it means to wait on God and find our strength in Him.

“I believe that I shall see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!”

Psalm 27:13-14

Michael