It is exactly a year since the beginning of the first lockdown. I am glad that today has been declared a national Day of Reflection - and people are asked to pause for a minute at midday, to remember those lost, those bereaved, and those still suffering. [Our local Churches' Together are holding a Zoom Meeting]
Reflect -
- Loving God, You hold all our times in your hands, our past, our present, our future. Be
close to us now as we remember all the difficulties and disappointments of the
past year. Be especially close to all of us who are thinking of someone we
loved and knew, but see no longer, whether family, friend, colleague or
neighbour. Help us to trust that they are at peace with you, and comfort us
with your presence.
Connect -
- Loving God, You place us in families and communities, and we give you thanks for all those
around us who serve us and help us in so many ways. Give wisdom to community
leaders, to our schools, hospitals, care homes and other agencies who make a
difference to our lives. Help each of us to have the courage to reach out with
thanks and kindness to those around us and to speak words of faith as we share
the good news of your love.
Hope -
- Loving God, As we journey towards Easter, help us to live as people of hope, knowing that
beyond the pain of the cross lies the joy of resurrection. Inspire us in our
worship, through our churches and in our homes, that we may bring glory to you
and joy to others. Be with those who are struggling in mind, body or spirit,
and give courage to those who are facing uncertainty and change ahead. Help
each of us to keep our eyes fixed on you, that we may reflect your light to all
whom we meet.
Amen
We have already gone through this - my province declared a "state of emergency" and locked down totally on March 17, 2020. Our first death was recorded on March 21st. Places of worship were asked to do something for remembrance in last Sunday's service - including a minute of silence and the city held a ceremony at City Hall.
ReplyDeleteIt is so strange - on one hand it seems like forever for some things - and on the other hand it's so hard to comprehend that it's been a whole year already - and it will probably be the Fall before we are any way back to what could be called normal - although we all expect at least some restrictions until the end of the year.
It does feel like forever. Our Zoom meeting was beautifully conducted by Andy, a local Vicar - it was good to reflect and pray together. May God give us grace and strength for the days ahead.
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