An Angel

The whole point of much of my journey over these few months is that, for the first two thirds, I don't have a great deal planned - other than my over night accommodation (and with a half term and advice in respect of the NC500 this gives me a bit of reassurance). With camp bookings being two nights, it gives me the chance to explore and see where the Spirit and mood takes me.

En route to Bamburgh from Durham and after a poor night's sleep thanks to some people who decided to party the night away, I left the campsite earlier than planned. It's only about 90 minutes from Durham to Bamburgh to I took things slowly. Of course, on the way, just off the A1(M) there is the remarkable Angel of the North. I took the sliproad off the A1, trying not to be too distracted by the sheer size of this angel towering over me. Parking up and wandering to the Antony Gormley sculpture, I felt overwhelmed. By what, I'm not sure. It is huge, it towers over all around it overlooking the countryside in which it is set. The outastreched arms seem out of proportion to the body. From a distance (and I've always thought this), it seems to be a very stark piece of artwork, the metal coloured naturally through weathering and time. But it is only when one is up close it takes on something different. It is smooth, the edges round. It feels inviting. The outstretched arms of the Angel inviting.

I was fortunate enough to be here when it was quiet. Only a few people milled around. Walkers were gathering and the car park wasn't busy. On my way back to the motorhome I grabbed a coffee. I needed time to reflect on what I had just seen and felt in this encounter. It is what this time away is about - 'contemplative waiting on God'. Here in this moment of encounter there was a strong sense of God with me, God with us. So much to reflect and contemplate on. The outstretched arms of welcome and of love looking out over the vastness of the countryside for so many to see whether or not they stop by or continue; it is there.

As I finished my coffee and mulled over this brief period of time I was so pleased that I stopped, took breath and went to see the Angel.

You can read more about it HERE.