This is a playful book full of images that spark our imagination. It is a book that takes us to the intimate and deeply connecting love that God holds out for us all.
In this passage we have sight of a beautiful creature that celebrates the passing of winter, and the arrival of spring – with all its beauty and rich fragrance. The sounds of the summer birds returning. Come away, arise, enjoy all that is before you – dance in it. Delight in it. Frolic and play. Don’t hold back on letting your whole self lean into the goodness of all that is around you in this new emerging season.
Imagine what it might be like to let ourselves go in such a way as people of God. What would a new emerging season look like for your community? What would it feel like? How would it seem? What delights could you experience as God’s called people?
A final invitation for the community of Ephesus in drawing on the strengths of faith to stand tall and to withstand all that might come try and pull them apart.
Paul uses imagery to help them understand how to draw on the strengths of faith to stand fast. There is much that could easily pull our communities apart, but there is also much given in Christ that will hold us together. When we focus our attention on Christ and lean into Christ, then we will be well held in the throws and turmoil of life. It is faith in Christ that will stand our communities in good stead.
The invitation also challenges us to pray. To pray for each other, to be aware of what might threaten the faith and life of our communities. To pray for all. To hold the hope and mystery of God with boldness.
To think about, what images help you to draw on the strengths of faith, to help you stand fast?
Rev (Deacon) Denise Savage
PM – Leadership Formation