A Kingdom of hope – 2 Corinthians 2: 14-16

‘But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads in every place the fragrance that comes from knowing him.  For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things?’

I have been watching the news on the television about the atrocities in the war between Israel and Gaza and the inhumanity of the Hamas and wondering if there is any source of hope that can come from that area of our world.

As I looked at the devastation of houses I noticed a plant amongst the rubble pushing its green leaves up out of the earth, the sight of it touched me.

The brick and concrete building which no doubt had been built with such great hope, was now a heap of rubble.  This plant, so vulnerable and delicate had somehow survived.

When the things we humans build are gone, nature continues, it grows and blossoms and fills the air with its scent and our eyes with its beauty.   It reminds us how persistent life is and tells us again how patient God is.

It’s a parable of hope.  Our best efforts and plans may be shattered by violence, as people struggle for power and advantage.  Anger explodes, but when the guns have moved on, there in the rubble of pain and anguish, God begins again.  God pulls life together and gives us another chance.

One day, perhaps, we will take that chance and the smell of nature will push out all smell of fear.  Then we shall be whole again, and through us, the hope and love of Christ will spread abroad, intangible but indestructible.

Prayer

 Lord, it’s a bit insubstantial, love against hate and forgiveness against violence.  Yet it’s your way, a way of patience, suffering and vulnerability. But you, Lord, had nowhere, no home to lay your head, no empire, no army, just a few men and women, simple folk, vulnerable like you.  Teach us, Lord, that love can’t be measured, and put a little in our hearts today. Amen.

Penny Bonham