News from the Bishop’s office: December 2023/January 2024

Reflection: Another year comes to an end. A new year begins.
It feels that it was just a few months ago that we started the new year with expectations, hopes, and uncertainties. Will we be able to let go of what has burdened and disappointed us and let God be who He is for us and through us? The watchword was encouraging and empowering: “a God who sees.” (Genesis 16:13) Indeed God sees and God knows what happened in 2023 and He was with us every moment. He knows and sees.

That is comforting and empowering to live life with confidence despite of what was, is and will be.

The watchword for 2024 reads: “Do everything in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14). That seems to be a tall order at first sight. Is it really possible to do everything in love? Yes, everything, and not only most of it. Did you manage to do that today, just for the past 12 hours? And in the days, weeks, months, years before now, did you manage? Is it possible? But it is well worth a try! Acting and doing in love not only benefits the other, but myself too.

In v15 Pauls reminds us of the foundation on which we stand as we act in love. “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”

“Be” – a decision we take and live in such an intentional way. Awareness, trust, courage and strength are all part of what enables and empowers us to live and act in love.

“Do everything in love.” – Let us do and built God’s kingdom together.