Welcome!

LENT! The season of fasting? A 40-day period of giving up something (living without)? A time of self-denial? 

Mid-March would be one year since the first lockdown began. What a year it has been, a year that really has not been, a "non-year" if there could be such a thing. 

We all have memories of things that happened that we liked, and we did not like.

No one likes being cooped up indoors; no one like to be told when to stay in and when to go out.

If anyone knows, ask a teenager! They will tell you without hesitation, being told what to do really sucks! 

We have just come through 12 months of LENT!  

Those considering what to give up for Lent, think of all you have given up during the past 12 months!

Is the focus of Lent really about US giving up something?  

Should our focus not be on the One who gave up everything He had, to live among us, show us the "religion" we have concocted for ourselves really does not matter in the sight of God, and teach us what God our Father really wants? 

Our world continues to be confused about the CORONAVIRUS -

Is it God's divine intervention in a world gone rogue with self-centred, self-focussed, self-absorbed living?

Or, was it a human mistake, an "Ooops" while attempting scientific research, which spiralled out of control?

Or, is it simply a cycle of nature correcting itself?

The late Mother Theresa of Calcutta made this observation, 

As Lent is the time for greater love, listen to Jesus’ thirst…’

'Repent and believe’ Jesus tells us.

What are we to repent?

Our indifference, our hardness of heart.

What are we to believe?

Jesus thirsts even now, in your heart and in the poor —

He knows your weakness.

He wants only your love, wants only the chance to love you.

Perhaps or focus should not be on "giving up" for Lent. Perhaps we should reflect on "being and becoming" the person God intended us to be. And Jesus the Christ is waiting, waiting for us to realise the enormity of His love, and for us to love Him in return for the sacrifice He made for us. 

Yours in the continual process of being and becoming,

Kalyan

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If you are new to Botley, North Hinksey, Cumnor (and surrounding areas) or to Botley Baptist Church, or have been worshipping here for a long time and wish to explore more about Church life, Baptist beliefs and how you can participate in the life of the Church, you are most welcome to join us on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:30 pm in the Das' home. THIS IS PRESENTLY SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Click "EMAIL US" if you have specific questions. Thank you.