“In these days we are in the heart of the season of Lent. The word “Lent” comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word meaning “to lengthen” or “spring – the lengthening of days…” Here’s a brief three-minute video reflection (filmed in the heart of the Hurunui parish at Cheviot Hills) offering a bit of encouragement as we enter the first full week of Lent.

the gardener
The question surprised me and the look in the young boy’s eyes let me know that he wanted more than a religious-cliche-response. I took a moment to think, pray, and think again and was surprised at the answer that came to me.
The season here, does indeed, offer fitting parable for Lent. Thank you for reminding us that the bareness of autumn and winter are in fact preparation for spring, the season of greatest growth. So does God fill our emptiness. Sometimes I think emptiness is the only offering we can make to the Love that is waiting to fill us . What an exchange!