Creation Groans

For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. And not only this, but we also ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, even the redemption of the body. (Romans 8.22-23)

What a poignant term this is "groans." This personification of creation is such a lovely image of the camaraderie of the wait. Our fourth little grandchild was born on Sunday and while our daughter was in labour with her husband by her side and AnnaBeth with them in that holy place of a new person, a new image bearer entering the world; with the wonder of texting our whole family was weighing in with "it will be over soon" messages. And it was! The pain and groaning gave way to joyful weeping and gratitude.

Today we will travel alongside people who are groaning. We will walk through the groaning forest together. We will hear the aching groans of the trees and the earth beneath us. And as Lent walkers let's notice and encourage one another that "it will be over soon." Over now because of the present Kingdom. Over later because of the coming Kingdom. Over, because of Easter.