While you have the light - Pastor's Pen for 21st June 2026

Ngataringa, Devonport

I find there are some optimum conditions for cycling to Devonport, or rather, to state it in the negative, conditions I would rather avoid; anything resembling rush hour, school drop off or pick up times, very windy or wet weather, poor light conditions. You get the picture. Yesterday afternoon the conditions seemed perfect, aside from dawdling people crossing the road without looking and a few distracted Sunday drivers. It's amazing how invisible one can be even when clad in orange and bedecked with flashing lights. But that was the optimum time, with pleasant light, temperature and weather conditions.

Urban cycling is a particular skill, in which one is very attuned to what is going on in the immediate environment. On the Eastern side of the Devonport Peninsula, the roads are often busy, requiring vigilance. On the Western side, one can relax and take in the view a bit more as much of the return trip is car-free, on the 'green route.' Off leash dogs and distracted pedestrians are the main worry there.

The spiritual life unfolds a bit like a varied bike ride. One is awake to the possibility of the Spirit's movement, the activity of God breaking into ordinary life. Sometimes there is a sense of alertness, even vigilance, other times there is just thanksgiving for the beauty of the journey. Unexpected vistas can be around the corner. Sometimes you've seen the view before, but the light is of a certain unique quality this time.

In John 12:35, we read these words of Jesus; "The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that the darkness may not overtake you. If you walk in the darkness, you do not know where you are going."

There are a lot of interwoven themes in the passage I'm preaching on this week, but as we have already addressed in this gospel, Jesus seems intent on reminding his listeners to be fully aware of the moment they are in and how God is working in it. That is as true now as it was then. Shalom