Monday, March 15, 2021

Monday in the Fourth Week of Lent

Sarah McEvoy

The Collect

O Lord our God, in your holy Sacraments you have given us a foretaste of the good things of your kingdom: Direct us, we pray, in the way that leads to eternal life, that we may come to appear before you in that place of light where you dwell for ever with your saints; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Readings: Isaiah 65:17–25, John 4:43–54 & Psalm 30:1–6,11–13

The scripture passages for today speak of transformation. Isaiah tells of the transformation of Jerusalem and looks forward to the root of Jesse, the coming of the Messiah. David gives thanks for God’s healing and deliverance from death. John speaks of the transformation of the royal official through the miracle Jesus performs.

The changes I’ve experienced in my own life have been both fulfilling and challenging. Most recently finding ways to create a life of meaning and personal growth in retirement. This major life transition has given me time to reflect on my life as a whole. I’ve had the opportunity to think back on the past with a larger perspective. When I look back I see one constant woven through my life. The thread of God’s love and mercy. When I think of a hope for the future I hold tight to the same thread. It’s God’s gift. The gift that we all have to hold on to as we navigate the inevitable transitions in life.

The Way It Is

WILLIAM STAFFORD

There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.