Dear friends,
In chapter 3 of the book of Ecclesiastes, the author recognises just some of the many different changes that occur throughout life, stating that ‘To everything there is a season, [and] a time for every purpose under heaven.’
Those of you who use the evening prayers in Lectio365, or who attend the closing prayer time at The WellSpring, will be familiar with the prayer of ‘examen’ that helps us reflect on the day, or on the time that we’ve had.
Examen is an ancient prayer discipline which is designed to help us reflect on a period of time and ask ourselves the following questions: –
‘For what am I most grateful today? Where did I find life and light and energy?’ – with the aim of giving God thanks, and writing it into our story!
And ‘For what am I least grateful today? What has caused me the most concern or distress?’ – in order to give it over to God in prayer.
Although typically used at the end of the day, it can be used to reflect on any period of time that we may choose.
As we enter the final month of our ministry at Dedworth, we are approaching the end of one season and the beginning of a new one. It seems an appropriate time to apply these questions to the last 14½ years, and we encourage you to do so. We will then find ways of weaving our reflections and prayers into our worship together as we look back on our time together on 27th April, when we hope you will be able to join us, as we celebrate the many ways in which God has been working through the relationships and ministries of the church.
In the meantime, we look forward to celebrating Easter together, when we remember that whatever changes we face in life, God is in the business of renewal. May that eternal truth hold us firm in our relationships with God and with one another throughout this season of transition.
With our love and prayers,
Matthew and Pauline