Rev Helen’s blog – July 2021

Dear all,

I have now returned from my sabbatical and I am slowly working my way through things as I step back into public ministry.

I am grateful for the time gifted to me to spend recharging my batteries and I have almost completed my challenge of producing and original piece of work in word and song that I have entitled a journey from lament to hope. I hope to be able to share it with you but meanwhile I am going to give you a small glimpse . One thing that really fascinated me in my reading time was an account of the bacteria that formed on the wounds of the soldiers during the First World War. This bacteria had a powerful quality as it shone in the dark.

It healed the wounds in a remarkable way so the idea of light in the darkness being a healing force gave me an idea.

In our dark world in our wishing things were different as we try to recover from the devastating effects of this virus our wounds can become the light by which we shine.

I therefore came up with the words of the following song. I hope it paints a picture, gives you a healing glow or at least makes you think. Light in darkness is a very powerful thing.

Song: Is there anything more beautiful than living light?

1 We are humbled in the mystery of the world.

Suspended in time,

Yet lifted by the light.

Each moment of each day,

Held safe by the glow.

We’re anchored in God’s love,

Reflections of his heart.

Chorus

Our wounds become the glow by which we shine.

Darkness is our closest friend.

Tiny drops of stillness fill the shadows of our days.

Is there anything more beautiful than living light?

Is there anything more beautiful than living light?

2 We are called to build our lives and work anew.

Begin life again.

With imprints on our minds

Of pain and grief and sadness,

By grace, healing comes.

There’s solace in the light,

of all created things.

Chorus

Our wounds become the glow by which we shine.

Darkness is our closest friend.

Tiny drops of stillness fill the shadows of our days.

Is there anything more beautiful than living light?

Blessings

Rev Helen