Скачать или смотреть A thread of hope: a reflection for the Second Sunday of Lent

There is a moment that lingers
a moment of resolve:
Jesus stands strong in the face of danger
The Pharisees warn him that Herod wants to kill him, but his response is firm:
“Go and tell that fox, today and tomorrow I shall be driving out demons and working cures; on the third day, I will reach my goal.”
It is a statement of intent
a reminder that even when threats loom, even when fear tries to take hold, there is still work to be done, a mission to fulfil
Jesus knew where he was going, and nothing, not even the threat of death, would discourage him
And then this:
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often have I longed to gather your children, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings; but you would not let me.”
Tender, protective, filled with aching love
The love of a parent longing to shelter their child
The love of God yearning to bring people close
And yet, there is sorrow
The love is offered but refused
How often do we turn away from the things that seek to help us
heal us, shelter us?
Then, the warning, a moment of reckoning, of sadness:
“Look! There is your temple, forsaken by God.”
But even here there is a thread of hope:
“You will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Hope is not lost. A time will come when eyes will be opened, when hearts will recognize what was once refused
Where do we find the strength to press forward despite fear?
How do we respond to the love that seeks to gather us in?
Can we hold onto the promise that joy will return, even in darkness and desolation?
Jesus walked the path with courage, love, and hope.
Can we?

Words and Music © Darren Garfield 2025
Photo: Elliot
Based on the Gospel reading for Second Sunday in Lent Year C (Luke 13: 31-35)