Reflections

Updates from Whirlow

Have we had enough? Clues to contentment.

What, if anything, do you believe would make you happy? Complete release from lockdown? A simple hug from a loved one? Neither of these are likely for some weeks, if not months. We might long for them but perhaps we might also ask for the ability to experience contentment in the here and now, as it were a gift in itself.

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Words as Waymarkers

In these times of enforced distance, it is particularly difficult to relate to people as whole beings. Even before the pandemic, divisions created by an over-reliance on engaging only with what someone else says were strikingly evident. In this reflection, we look at scriptures and try to develop a wiser way forward…..

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Villains, Clowns, Heroes and the slow work of the heart

Religious and political leaders can be viewed as pantomime baddies in our interpretations of the New Testament. Today’s reflection issues an invitation to enter imaginatively into the hearts of several characters, including those we find offputting. Perhaps we see ourselves in them all?

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Dare we invite an Epiphany?

This week, Christians celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. It marks the visit of the Magi (wise men, or ‘three Kings’) from the East to see the child Jesus. As a New Year dawns, how do we feel about the continuing disruption that unique person brought into the world?

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All We Need is Love / Show, Don't Tell

Christmas is the perfect time to remember that actions speak louder than words. Words, without accompanying actions, are nothing. In this post, we reflect on how love can only be demonstrated through the integrity of our deeds.

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Words are cheap

Our society is thirsty for truth: we often fear it has abandoned us as we absorb the speeches of politicians, news media, those with commercial, legal, religious or ideological agenda. This week’s reflection on two bible readings might help us pursue truth.

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Hope in Hardship this Advent

This first week in Advent, that Christian season of anticipation leading up to Christmas, often takes the theme of HOPE. Today, we reflect on what kind of hope and what kind of future we are anticipating.

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When the Going Gets Tough

Faith and religious commitment can provide much comfort, healing and inspiration. In most major world religions, there are also teachings and scriptures that are challenging and hard to digest. In today’s Reflection, we wonder what to do with these, especially when the ‘real’ world is quite difficult enough!

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Delighted with the Trees

In the Sacred Song from which today’s reflection takes inspiration, the tree is a wonder of nature that human creatures can aspire to imitate. Spend some time reflecting on what a tree might teach you.

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Everyone is Just Waiting

Few of us predicted that a new virus would dominate 2020. Even here, in the midst of it, it remains hard to accept. This reflection considers how much the year has required us to wait; and what we learn from that.

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Not Grasping

During a pandemic, it’s natural to feel afraid or anxious. This reflection gives us permission to remember we still have choices: we can choose to remain magnanimous and outward-looking, strengthened by faith, grace and love.

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With Sighs Too Deep...

These days, it is easy to be overwhelmed as we watch, listen, or read the news. Countless stressful words and images bombard our minds. Rather than regurgitating that to the next person, this reflection invites us to drop down from our minds into our hearts, exploring our deepest feelings in stillness and silence.

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Do Not [Be] Disturb[ed]

How do we protect ourselves from anxiety and destructive thinking in these upsetting times? Today’s reflection considers two historic women and that great female teacher, Mother Nature, who might guide us on our way.

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Missing the Point

Jesus condemns the hypocritical, power-obsessed actions of the legal and religious authorities in today’s story, which leads to their determination to get rid of him. We are invited to consider how his anger might be directed in today’s pandemic-ridden world. Are we brave enough to join him?

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