Rector's Thoughts
Recently there has been much made of David Attenbourgh’s 100th Birthday. Two things I like about him are firstly, he’s never lost a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty of our natural world. Secondly, he so often humbly reflects on that same beauty and wonder. Today I was in Tissington and I was moved by the amazing well dressings. As we enter the month of June, let us reflect on the significance of this month on the Christian calendar. The month of June brings with it a sense of renewal, growth, and new beginnings. It is a time of flowering and new growth in nature. This season of the year also marks the beginning of summer, a time of warmth and relaxation.
At the heart of June, however, lies a deeper spiritual significance. For Christians, June is often associated with the feast of St. John the Evangelist, one of the Apostles, who was the companion of Jesus. His feast day is celebrated on June 27th. Let us commemorate this month not just as a celebration of the natural world, but also as a time to deepen our own spiritual connection. Whether we are celebrating the new life of a child, the blossoming of new friendships, or simply the beauty of the world around us, let us remember that God is the source of all life and beauty. One of the great teachings of Jesus is found in the Gospel of John, particularly in Chapter 1, Verse 1. This verse states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not even one thing came into being. That which came into being through him is life, and his life is eternal. No one can snatch that life from him." (John 1:1-3, NIV) In the love of God we must take time to be aware of the beauty around us and the gifts God offers us if we take time to think and be still for a while.
This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian belief. Jesus, the Word made flesh, was in existence from the beginning of time. He was present when the universe was created, and through Him everything was brought into being. The life that He offers is eternal and He protects it from any form of harm. In the month of June let us reflect on this truth. Let us seek to live in the light of Jesus, to let His light shine through us, bringing warmth, healing and hope to those around us. Let us be instruments of His love, spreading joy, kindness and understanding wherever we go. As we move into this month may we be reminded of our own invitation to eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. As St. John’s gospel continues, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (John 3:16-17, NIV)
May this month of June be a season of deepening faith, love, and service to others. As we celebrate new beginnings and the beauty of creation, may we also celebrate the new life in Christ and the promise of eternal life. May we continue to grow in our understanding of God’s love and in our commitment to sharing that love with all those around us.
Let us find joy in the simple things of life, like the warmth of the sun, the beauty of flowers and the company of friends. And let us use these moments to remember the greater joy of having the love of God and the life of Jesus as our guiding light.
Please be assured of my prayers and best wishes.
Stephen Monk (Revd)