After such a wet and cold winter, I wasn’t expecting to see bud burst on my ornamental grape vine so soon. But what a delight it was – a little first leaf just poking itself out into the sunshine. Spring is so earnestly anticipated by us all. The promise of newness and the excitement for summer to follow can be very invigorating. And a chance to think about new beginnings, new goals, perhaps new adventures to plan for in the summer months.
The invitation to start over is one of the most precious gifts the Christian faith has given me. Nothing needs to stay the same. It can change, especially if I believe in a God whose greatest desire is to be in relationship with me. Times of stress often lead to actions or words or thoughts of which I am not proud. Usually, words and actions that are not motivated by me being my best self, result in hurt or anger or worse. Regret inevitably turns up, in her unwelcome way, and before you know it, there’s a cycle underway of blame, and hurt feelings with a decent dose of self-recrimination, just to kick the party off. Never a good time for anyone.
Being forgiven by God and allowed to start again, can happen anytime – I don’t need to wait for Spring. God’s forgiveness comes unconditionally with no small print. All that is required is a deep desire to start over. God doesn’t need fancy language. He/she already knows what our heart desires.
If you would like to know more about how God’s forgiveness can enhance your life, come and hang out with us at St Andrew’s. We are not perfect – just forgiven, and grateful to be so. Services happen every second Sunday at 10.00am, 41 Dublin Street.
