QFC August 2025
This month as we gathered as forest church we discovered abundance.
The readings from the SEC lectionry today look harsh at first glance. They include the time when Jesus is described as saying he brings a sword instead of peace. The psalm we read describes wild creatures trampling the cultivated crops.
Our theme was patience, and we reflected on how although patience is a virtue we can sometimes hide in our inactivity. We considered discernment. How do we sense what God is doing? When should we wait patiently, when should be knuckle down and change, or lament loudly!
Reflecting on the words we wandered, looking for brambles. Last year we found some, but not many. The Crichton we are usually in is beautiful, but ornamental rather than a home for brambles.
We observed that the grounds were full of life. It’s founder dreamed of a university, but was only permitted to build a hospital. Now, decades later there are two universities at home. Her dream has bourne fruit. We found laurel berries, but still no brambles.
Then we spotted bramble bushes peeking out through the undergrowth, no fruit. Whilst planning this gathering I had considered the possibility that we leave the grounds altogether and look for brambles elsewhere, somewhere more wild. My patience was tested.
Then we found brambles. At first a small bunch. Then a larger cluster. We had to stretch, climb a bit and avoid the dog muck. The brambles were ripe though. The sort which (as Kate commented) you don’t need to pull, they come off in your hand. They were sweet and ready. Then we found more, more than a small handful, and as sweet as jam.
The bigger picture surrounding Jesus talking about buying swords, or preparing for conflict, is that an abundance is waiting. We see that harvest is ripening so we get ready to bring in the crops. It will take effort, but something is waiting far beyond our expectations.
And hi to all those who sent messages but couldn’t gather with us in person!
