As I write this article it is a glorious Spring day outside, the snowdrops have given way to daffodils of all heights, sizes and colours in the Rectory garden and each day as I wander around the garden new shoots are breaking through, seeking the light and warmth of the sun to flourish, wherever they are, (and thus far, there are a few flowers and plants which are straying from their intended spot in the border). We’ve been here for 6 months now, and I am enjoying watching that new growth, taking the time to consider each shoot and what it might be the herald of - colourful flower or invasive weed. Waiting and watching isn’t only reserved for my time in the garden either.

The church is in the season of Lent, a time to traditionally reflect on our lives, pray and wait and watch for what God is doing in our lives and around us. A time to turn back to the warm embrace of God’s grace, seeking forgiveness for what we have done badly and strength to move forward in our faith. A chance to take stock of where we are and look forward to journeying with God into our future. Indeed, our Lent groups have been based on the theme of Living Hope.

Living Hope feels so relevant as we look forward to Easter. As we approach Easter, we remember that Jesus conquered death and that this was a sign that one day all death, all sorrow, all suffering will be conquered. We don’t know when, but it will happen. We remember that we do feel separated from God at times, that we struggle with faith, that we doubt, we deny, we waiver. But we also remember that there will be a day when we meet Jesus, face to face. We don’t know when, but we will. I hope there’s wine and cake then too! This hope is a quiet assurance, a gentle comfort that in the middle of all that goes on in our lives; the good, the bad, the messy bits, the sad bits, somehow God is here. Our God ‘gets’ suffering. He has experienced it first hand and walks with us in it, and whispers to us that this situation doesn’t get the final word. That belongs to Jesus. And that final word is one of joy and love. So, we have reason to be hopeful. We have a reason to be people of hope, to live showing people there is a greater day coming. So, this Easter, how can we be people of hope? Extend gestures of kindness, love and joy. Remind people there is goodness. Point people to Jesus. Celebrate when we see positive changes happening. Every time we do these things we are building the future that Christ will bring fully. We become the hope. So, be a little light in this community. BE THE HOPE.