As we come to terms with our hung parliament many may be feeling a little disappointed. Over the last few weeks hopes have been raised of democratic renewal and clear government to help the country through difficult economic times. As I write this in the cold light of Friday morning, it is not yet clear how this might be achieved.
This weekend whilst the politicians will be considering how best to move forward the Church will remember an English saint from the fourteenth century; Julian of Norwich. Julian famously experienced sixteen visions of the love of God when dangerously ill. Following her recovery she wrote these down in her book, ‘Revelations of Divine Love’. This was the fist book written by a woman in the English language and she is now considered one of our greatest mystics.
If you find today’s headlines unsettling then spare a thought for Julian. She was writing during outbreaks of the plague and the peasants revolt and many in the Church understood these as God’s punishment for our sin. For Julian, however, it was the love of God that held the world together. Her confidence in that love led her to proclaim that, despite current trials, in God’s loving mercy all shall be well.
“Though shalt not be overcome, was said full clearly and full mightily, for assuredness and comfort against all tribulations that may come. God willeth that we take heed of these words, and that we be ever strong in sure trust, in weal and woe. For he loveth and enjoyeth us, and so willeth he that we love and enjoy him and mightily trust in him; and all shall be well.”
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