THIS month sees us travelling through Lent. It is far more than the time we give up chocolates! It is when we remember how our Lord turned from ministry in Galilee, to focus his attention on his forthcoming death in Jerusalem. He changes role from being the prophet who teaches and heals, to being a priest who suffers and dies. From now on he will spend less time with the crowds and more time with his followers.
He tries to warn his disciples about what lies ahead, but it does not fit in with their plans and ambitions. So they airbrush his comments from their minds. However he persists and speaks openly about the need to count the cost of discipleship. It will not be a stroll in the park but a climb in the hills. As such it will be exhausting as well as exhilarating.