Dear Friends,

Continued Easter blessings! For the Star Wars fans amongst us- May the fourth be with you!

We are travelling through this Easter season and many of the bible passages that are part of the lectionary in this season reveal the Risen Jesus in some form; in the garden, as a companion along the road, appearing in a locked room and yet sharing and eating food with the disciples, even a BBQ on a beach. Every time, Jesus' appearance was unexpected and most of the time he was unrecognised in the initial encounter. And this would be the pattern for the days leading to Jesus' ascension.

I wonder what it felt like for the disciples in this time? Their previous despair transformed into great hope and joy and yet, things were different. They were having to reflect and engage with all that Jesus had taught them, how he modelled that teaching, and actually consider how they would apply this and live it, in their own lives. Something that we will recognise in our own discipleship today.

There are the personal encounters recorded as well, such as the one between Peter and Jesus, where Peter's betrayal of Jesus after his arrest was acknowledged by both of them, repented and forgiven. Peter was restored, renewed and empowered to take those first steps on the task before him.

I wonder where we will meet Christ today and every day? Will it be in unexpected places? Will we recognise Christ immediately or will it be a gradual revelation?

And in our encounters – may we be restored, renewed and empowered to respond to God's calling for our lives. Amen.

For those who are participating in, or commemorating in some way the 80th anniversary of VE day (Victory in Europe- the end of the Second World War in Europe) over the weekend and into next week- may it be a time of deep remembrance, of thanksgiving for all those who served in whatever capacity, and acknowledging the sacrifices that were made so that peace could be restored.

And we pray for that peace and justice in our world today- still so greatly needed.

Amen.

Every blessing

Rev Karen