Sadly, social distancing isn’t new. Had we been at St Margaret’s this Palm Sunday morning, we would have said the part of Psalm 31 that contains the words: “I became a reproof among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours : and they of mine acquaintance were afraid of me; and they that did see me without conveyed themselves from me.”

Reading that reminded me of a memorable Sunday@Six in March when Julia Reid and Michael Paterson shared some of the laments contained within the Psalms. Little did we know then that it would be the last time our two congregations would be able to worship together for some time.

No palm crosses to share today, but Michael sent this photo from his wee chapel in the garden. Mario made the cross out of dry willow branches that they had found. At the bottom of the cross are the laments and prayers written by those who were able to come on 15 March – do please make time during Holy Week to read this note about that memorable service – and the candles represent his prayers for all the people he loves. Think of that as you light your candle at 7.00pm each Sunday …

On 15 March we used this reworking of Psalm 130 that is worth reading. “Anguished and afflicted, terribly alone” and “Apprehension and hope struggled within me” speak to today’s condition, but the Psalm ends “the communion of the rescued will rejoice in your name.” We aren’t there yet, and there are dark days ahead, but Easter is coming. Hallelujah!