Daily Reflection – Wednesday 15th April

‘Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.’ 2 Corinthians13:11

My brother in law has four siblings; all five of them are scattered across the world; Australia, New Zealand, England, South Africa and the USA. Last night they had a family get-together, which they had never done, in all the years they have been apart. Of course it was via electronic media, but there they were, together again.

Isn’t it strange how, in this time of plague, those far away have drawn closer, and those we see regularly have been distanced by the necessity of avoiding contact. Because we can now see them all, it reassures us but also can make us more concerned for everyone. How much more we value everyone in our lives, near and far away.

The apostle Paul knew many trials and tribulations, and spent much of his ministry travelling all over, connecting with the embryonic Church scattered over the eastern Mediterranean. These Christains were his dear friends, his pupils, his responsibility. yet he was constantly on the move, driven by his mission to spread the news of Jesus. On his way to Spain he was arrested and finally  put under house arrest in Rome. How that must have chafed him. Did he not have work to do?

Well, sometimes God calls us to work, and sometimes he calls us to stop. So at this time, stop. Renew connections with family and friends, take time to put things in order, and live in peace. God bless you.