The longest day

The Summer Solstice finds me reflecting on the light and the darkness that is ministry for me just now.

• The light of sharing with young folks as they celebrate the end of school term and their readiness to move on, their buoyancy and resilience shot through with hope. 
• The affirming of vocation in folks struggling to discern the will of God. 
• The commitment and support and enthusiasm of willing volunteers prepared to share their wisdom and learn new things.
• The darkness of a couple who have grown old together and who now face debilitating illness, also together. 
• The light that they share as they consider themselves fortunate to have had the opportunity to talk about death and face it together.
• The light of creativity recognised and encouraged. 
• The darkness of those who feel threatened by such creativity.
• The darkness of those holding on tight to systems and traditions that no longer work.
• The light of those willing to step out and embrace the new.
• The darkness of knowing I am not enough.
• The light of the assurance that the love of God is enough.

On this day of reflections, I am thankful that there is more light than darkness and, when most days are simply not long enough to do all that ministry requires, remind myself that God has it covered.