I am linking up again with Heather Gerwing and friends where we share ‘four somethings’. These are my loved, read, and treasured, memories from April and an attempt to look forward to the months ahead!
Something Loved
In April for the first time in months, I drove off the island to meet a friend, for a walk and a picnic. We are still under the covid restrictions of only being able to meet up in an outdoor space, and all restaurants are still closed. It is difficult to make any outdoor arrangements here – regardless of what month of the year it is – because the weather is so changeable. As I drove across the island I could see all the dark clouds and snow on the mountains, and I did wonder what we would do all day if it was cold and wet.
Sometimes we just have to push on through the dark clouds believing there will be sunshine on the other side! By the time we met the sun had come out, which was a real blessing. We had a walk on the beach and on the hillside overlooking the Victorian seaside resort. It was lovely to have a day off and to go somewhere different. But most of all it was so good to have time with a friend, to share faith and encourage each other.
C.S.Lewis said; “Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a good fire?” I would amend that to say; “Is any pleasure on earth as great as a Christian friend and a long walk by the sea?”
Something Read
I have finished reading, three totally different books in April – quite an eclectic mix!
40 days with the Holy Spirit, R.T.Kendall.
R.T. Kendall is a favourite author of mine, he is a clear teacher on exposition of scripture. I was looking forward to this new book and used it as an extra daily devotional during Lent. Each day revealed a different aspect of the character and role of the Holy Spirit, with Scriptures for further study and a short prayer at the end to reflect on for application. Although some of the teaching was familiar other aspects were insightful and inspiring. Available on Amazon.
The Beloved, Joy Margetts.
A short love story set in Wales in the 13th century. This tale includes a couple of familiar figures from ‘The Healing’ while also introducing some new characters. The book does stand on its own, and is beautifully written, drawing you into this story of love and Christian faith. A clear message develops that we are only truly whole, when we know that we are beloved by God. Available on Amazon kindle.
Letters to the Church, Francis Chan.
The author takes you on his journey of exploration regarding the function of the church today. He started by walking away from being the Pastor of a mega church of 6,000 people, disillusioned by church life. His solution, eventually, was to start a church planting network called ‘We Are Church’. This comprises of small groups of only 10-20 people, to foster a strong sense of community. I found his writing challenging and sometimes harsh. Although I could understand some of his frustrations, I found his experience of church difficult to relate to, and did not agree with all of his conclusions. The book is possibly more relevant for those involved in church leadership, but made an interesting read. Available on Amazon.
Something Treasured
Easter is always a highlight and this year although very different was still special! Previously it may have revolved around, going away and ‘doing something’. This year was just being in the moment. I had for the first-time observed Lent and participated in the Lent disciplines of prayer and fasting. I learnt that 40 days is a long time for self-denial. But isn’t that part of the purpose of Lent, to make us more aware of Jesus’ commitment to the Father and to us?
I felt more prepared and ready to celebrate by Easter Sunday. This year it was just logging onto the online service at home, and a Sunday lunch with family – but it was still a memorable day. The way we choose to celebrate may change but the One we are celebrating does not.
Something Ahead
Our church re-opened at the beginning of April, and this Sunday I will finally attend in person. I had been waiting to have my first covid vaccine, and for my mother to have her second as I ‘take her’ to church. Now that has happened, we feel ready to meet with a bigger group of people indoors. We are looking forward to it, even with our masks on and no singing….
I have more shifts scheduled for work in May. I am employed at the seaport and have been back at work since December, but it has been quiet. At last, the traffic numbers are increasing, for freight and passengers. I am beginning to allow myself to THINK about the possibility of a trip in September. At the moment I have gone as far as booking the time off work – so that is progress!
I thought Letters to the Church was an interesting read. I love the excitement that being vaccinated brings! It is GREAT to be able to make plans again!
Yes it is so good to hear that, God willing, we can start to make plans! Looking ahead, we might have more to say in the months to come ????
I am glad I popped over to your ABOUT page before I read…fun to try to picture it all all the way around the world.
SHARE FOUR SOMETHINGS always makes me realize I don’t read enough…I will add your book to my look into list.
There is never enough time to read all the books I would like to read – my list never gets any shorter! Thanks for visiting 🙂
Your reading list always adds titles to my ever-growing want-to-read list. I read about 3 books per week but my list never gets any shorter.
I am glad to hear that you are able to restore some normalcy to you life. Blessings on your return to church tomorrow.
Thank you – I’m looking forward to embracing a fresh season! I love reading and always have 1-2 books on the go, but three books a week is impressive!
This I LOVE, Sharon –> “Is any pleasure on earth as great as a Christian friend and a long walk by the sea?”
As a Cape Cod girl, my heart is so resonating with your every word.
You got it! ???? There are many beautiful places to explore but there is nothing quite like being by the sea – and that’s in any weather!
I love that you’re reading books that challenge you!
Yes it’s so good to expand our thinking and be challenged – and it certainly does that!
How wonderful that you were able to have a walk on the beach with your friend. We all need these outings so much these days!
I read two of Francis Chan’s earlier books, but lost track of him along the way and haven’t read this latest one.
I’m glad you’re able to go back to church. Our church has been open a long time, but they don’t wear masks, so we have only been watching online. We’ll go this weekend to my daughter’s church (they all wear masks) so I’m looking forward to that too!
Church was very different but good. And yes I think we are all ready for more interaction, an outing is a real blessing!
Sharon, I love your April somethings. Such a blessed share. Blessings.
Thank you Paula ????
I’m glad you were able to meet up with a friend and had decent weather. It’s amazing how a little time with another person can buoy our spirits.
Yes good friendships are so important and worth investing in. Thanks for visiting!
It’s lovely to see things begin to open up again. I’m glad you got to travel a bit further afield and enjoy the walk with your friend, and that you got to begin meeting for church again too!
Yes, it is good to see things improving. Church was very different but still appreciated being together!
I have been wanting to read Letters to the Church. Thank you for this good nudge, Sharon. I am officially adding it to my TBR list.
Your Lenten journey sounds brave and compelling. 40 days is a long time to be in denial mode. I am sure it made Easter more meaningful this year, which makes the sacrifice worth it. What a wonderful example of putting your faith into action!
Our Church has never followed Lent but part of lockdown has been the time to read and absorb on a wider scale and I was challenged by a short study guide I read. I will definitely participate again in some way or other!
Sharon, until reading this post, I never realized you lived in Wales. It does feel good to begin to feel more comfortable to get out and about once again. I feel the same now that we are fully vaccinated as well. Thank you for sharing your reading and your thoughts on each one. It’s always helpful to see what others liked or disliked in their reading journeys.
I hope you were able to get to church this past week. What a blessing! And a trip off the island….I love how you amended Lewis’ quote! Sounds lovely!!