Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
Today is the Fourth Sunday in Lent, a half-way point of lent when we rejoice at the gospel’s revelation of God’s great love for us in Jesus. It is also a Mothering Sunday, a day among others that we specifically give thanks for those who Mother us, and for all those who have given themselves to and for us. We thank God and our earthly mothers for our nurturing and for giving us opportunities in life which made us who we are today. As we look back, we also learn from their examples of love and care. I am also acutely aware that there are those for whom this day will bring mixed emotions. There are mothers and children who carry pain and suffering for various reasons, and there are mothers and children who have been affected by conflicts and wars in their countries. We are therefore called, as a church or individually, to take part in God’s work of mothering, of loving and caring for one another. We can also look up to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and learn from her. Simeon told her that “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed, so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed - and a sword will pierce your own soul too” (Luke 2:34-35). This must have been difficult for Mary to hear, but she accepted the message as it prepared her for the pain that she would experience when her son is crucified. It is my prayer that we will continue to do all we can to stand by those in any kind of need, and make our church family a place where all are welcome, supported, and grow to fullness of life.
Rev’d Jairo Nyaongo
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