TAPESTRY OF LIFE

Life is a journey filled with a tapestry of experiences. Some moments carry a profound significance as they mark the end of a chapter. This last year of my life has been just that – marking the end of one chapter and starting the beginning of another. With that, I write my last newsletter article as a Deacon. We all experience periods such as this. Periods of ‘lasts’ in our life and it can be tough, uncomfortable and very rewarding. So how do we deal with all of this in union with Christ?

Our Gospel passage leaves with some remarkable advice:-

1. Fearlessness in the Face of Uncertainty: Jesus begins by encouraging his disciples to cast aside fear: “Have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed.” Embracing ‘lasts’ often means stepping into the unknown, leaving behind familiar surroundings or venturing into new territories. This requires a fearless attitude, trusting that what is hidden will eventually come to light. By releasing our fear, we open ourselves up to the lessons and growth that these moments offer.

2. Perspective and Spiritual Resilience: Jesus reminds his disciples to maintain perspective: “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” Periods of lasts may bring challenges or opposition, but we should not allow fear to paralyse us. Instead, we should focus on the bigger picture, recognising that our souls and true essence cannot be extinguished by earthly circumstances. It is through these trials that our spiritual resilience is tested and strengthened.

3. Trusting in God’s Providence: Jesus reassures his disciples of God’s care and providence: “But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows”. Periods of lasts, when we may feel vulnerable and uncertain, we can trust that God is watching over us. Just as He cares for even the smallest creatures, He knows and values us deeply.

4. Courageous Confession and Eternal Recognition: Jesus emphasises the importance of courageous confession: “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven”. Periods of lasts provide an opportunity to boldly profess our faith and convictions, even in the face of opposition or discomfort. By embracing courage and openly acknowledging our relationship with God, we strengthen our bond with Him and inspire others to do the same. We all go through periods in our life where we experience things for the last time and it can be very tough. However, they can all be a way to boldly profess our love of Christ our Lord by releasing fear, maintaining perspective, trusting in God’s care, and demonstrating courage. We can navigate these transitional periods with grace and purpose, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.