The word lent comes from the Dutch or German word for
lente mean spring and in Europe that is so, while here in the Cape we will be
experiencing autumn. Each season is
important for the health of the earth which includes us humans.
Lent is a time of anticipation, of new growth, shoots
coming out of the ground. The church
uses Lent as a time of renewal of our spiritual lives.
I have been reading a book by Arnold Mol, ‘Think New,
Live New.’ Well worth a read and
challenging in a gentle way. Arnold
quotes Proverbs 4:23, ‘Keep your heart
with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life.’
Throughout scripture we have examples of men who
ignored God’s Word and chose to do things their own way. We need to pray for our leaders here in South
Africa as well as world leaders that they may follow God’s direction and love
the people they serve.
Lockdown has meant different things to people, some
have found it difficult to work from home, others have found it easy and enjoy
working at their own pace instead of at the office. Children have struggled to keep focused and
learn via the internet, others have done well, and the Matric result will
reflect this trend.
As a retiree I have found it quite pleasant but as a
people’s person I have found it difficult as I thrive on being with
people. Not being able to visit has been
hard, not meeting with the people from the Bible study has been strange, but I keep
in touch through phone calls and social media (not so much).
I would encourage myself and all who read this that we
continue to proclaim that God is still on the throne, not far away but as near
as the breath we take, that His love is enduring, and that Jesus knows what we
are experiencing as He came to earth and walked the road to Gethsemane. Let Him who loves us walk with you.
May this Lent be a renewal of our spiritual lives.
Louise Hazell
