On Sunday January 30th at 10:30am, it will be a pleasure to dedicate and bless a window at Christ Church Hamilton. This is a lovely window of Christ the Good shepherd and if you are ‘COVID comfortable’, you are welcome to this celebration.
In the window The Master looks straight out at us as does the sheep at his feet. There are other sheep in the window and the backdrop is one of our green Western District plains.
As well as admiring the craftsmanship and the deep appreciation of the person who has generously donated the window, there are a couple of other things going on.
You can look at the window and explore the symbolism of the picture. The good shepherd does in fact hold us close even though it may not feel like it at this time.
The Master does walk with us, leads us and encourages us. He trudges with us in these green and pleasant lands that we enjoy in this part of Victoria. The sheep that Jesus holds also looks straight out at us to cheekily invite us to do what he has done. Jump straight into the arms of the Good shepherd and rest securely in comfort and with joy.
But you can also look through the window. Where does all this point you to? Or, what deeper truths does it launch you into?
That we see dimly and sometimes darkly a friend that engages us, taunts us and draws us in. The aim is not just to admire the art work, but also to become the window yourself; an image, an icon, a shepherd, a nurturer and welcomer. We do this so that others may see through us the one who always stands with us …The Good Shepherd.