February 2025

Greetings,

and Happy Late Winter!

In this morning’s “Guardian” newspaper, Emma Beddington lamented that it was the “95th day of January”!i

She is proposing to survive until spring by NOT following typical winter wellbeing advice such as eating healthily and getting outdoor exercise. Beddington’s “wellness-free tips” include eating chocolate, and wrapping up in a cosy cape whenever she steps outside. She refers to this item of apparel as “the cape of good hope”.

Many of us can relate. On cold winter days, snuggling under blankets or warm clothing has a lot of appeal. Fortunately, by the time you read this newsletter, February will be on the doorstep. Meteorologically, we will be in “late winter.” Spring is almost here!

The columnist’s suggestions did, however, get me thinking about spiritual “cosiness.” Pastors and spirituality professionals lean towards the brisk and the bracing. We tend to act more like sport coaches than supportive companions. My school hockey mistress comes into mind more than my Nan when I’m preaching!

Being spiritually fit is a good thing. Running straight races an apt metaphor for the faith journey. But Jesus also invited us to rest, to lift lighter weights, to choose the comfortable over the challenging, when we can. February is the perfect month to follow this advice.

Treat yourself to some delicious bread and reflect on Jesus nourishing your soul. (How is he your butter? And your jam?) Curl up with a heartwarming book or film. C. S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is good reading and good viewing. Or anything by the late Tony Campolo. A Baptist minister who throws a surprise birthday party for a prostitute will brighten up the darkest winter day!ii

Spring is close by. Lent and Easter will soon be upon us. Take this opportunity to enjoy some late winter cosiness. Wrap yourself up in God’s love – it’s like a vegan puffer for our souls! And don’t forget Jesus’ fresh bread.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Come to me.

I’ll show you how to take a real rest.

I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.

Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”iii

Sending you warm and cosy blessings,

Brenda

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i Emma Beddington, “Somehow it is still January. Here are my nine wellness-free survival tips”, The Guardian, 20/1/2025

ii Tony Campolo, “The Kingdom of God is a Party”, Thomas Nelson, 1990

iii From Matthew 11: 28-30 The Message