Historic lino uncovered by renovations at Hillsborough manse 2016
The above photo popped up in my memories. Peel back the old lino to reveal the even older lino beneath. People conceal things for convenience or shame. A quarter century of no proper maintenance is revealed for all to see as a master builder strips back a decrepit house.
Putin's 'special military operation' is justified by claiming to overthrow the Nazis who apparently run Ukraine. He has his messaging on point but the world is unconvinced. Trump loudly complaining against the judiciary, flies to New York for his day in court. His braying of innocence will hopefully be tested in a non-partisan way. Stuart Nash's days as the member of parliament for Napier are numbered, following his disregard for the boundaries of confidentiality and operational non-interference expected of a cabinet minister. People conceal things for convenience or shame.
Several of the gospels have variations on Jesus' words about truth coming out: 'Therefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops.' (Luke 12:3)
As we approach Easter, having prayed and studied our way through Lent, I have reflected on the sober darkness and then the unfolding joy of the season. For some reason it has had a searchlight effect on me this year. God has peeled back a few layers and I see more of myself. I also find I grow very tired of those in power engaging political spin, bending the truth and generally curating a favourable version of reality. People conceal things for convenience or shame. So do you and I sometimes.
We can fool ourselves or others for quite some time about various things; how holy we are, how much we have it together. Yet nothing is hidden from God. Standing at the foot of the cross this Easter, none of us have it together. We all need Jesus. From Gethsemane to Golgotha, Jesus understands human pain and trauma intimately. Yet, thanks be to God, through the other side we see resurrection light, hope and joy. We can live abundantly in Him, in the light of his truth. May you know the peace of Christ this Easter.
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