Lent reflections: 1. Longing for
​‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.’
​(Matthew 23:37)
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Spring is an exciting time of year. Its vibrant colours, warm sunshine and birdsong banish the grey of winter. The excitement of this spring has been marred by the events of the past year with the Coronavirus pandemic. Although the end of lockdown seems to be a slow process, we are still encouraged that it will come. This has been a much longed-for freedom.

I am reminded of Jesus’ words about the freedom he offers as he rode into Jerusalem.

The purpose of the coming of the Messiah to earth was to give us the opportunity to accept the way back into the Heavenly embrace. Doubtless most people will relish and enjoy the freedom that will come once the restrictions because of the virus are lifted. How tragic Jesus’ words were as he acknowledged the rejection of his Heavenly Father’s invitation into the freedom from the consequences of sin. 
Merle Sparkes
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​Return to Merle's reflections 2021 - go to Merle's reflections 2022