Seeker

Earlier today, as Christians met for Palm Sunday worship, there were 2 bomb attacks on Coptic Christian churches in Alexandria and Tanta in Egypt with many killed and injured. Even as Christians around the world were singing Hosanna, murderous intentions were carried out. 'In the midst of life we are in death' - it was ever thus. Lord, have mercy. In what Christians remember today, the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem that began the last week of his life, we see themes of praise, life and joy intertwined with murderous plots. The painting at the head of this post depicts Christ's entry into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey, surrounded by those who cheered waving palm branches. Others are perhaps just looking on, not sure what to make of it all. It was painted by the German artist Wilhelm Morgner, who died on Flanders fields during World War 1.  For me the painting expresses both peaceful procession and the passion and suffering of Christ. The rich colours speak of royal ...

Five Senses of Love reflection on John 12: 1 - 11 for Monday of Holy Week What does love look like? Love looks shocking. Love breaks rules, as did Mary of Bethany who rubbed perfume on a rabbi's feet and dried them with her hair -  in public. Love shocks when it wastes expensive perfume or destroys a precious body like that of Jesus hung out on a cross to die. What does love feel like? Love feels good to the one who can receive it like a baby relaxing in its parents' care, or like a lover in the arms of the beloved. What does love sound like? Love sounds to Judas like 300 coins, a whole year's wages  spilling to the ground, rolling away and lost - an extravagant waste. Love sounds to Jesus like the sound of friends, of tears, laughter, music and companionable silence.  What does love taste like? Love tastes like the best food and drink, caringly prepared, served and shared. ...