Lent Reflection

3rd March 2022

The Carib tree – ceratonia siliqua – or locust tree is an evergreen shrub growing up to 15m. It grows happily in Mediterranean climates and can survive periods of drought. Its fruit is an edible bean tasting like cocoa. There is a suggestion that it was these locust beans, and not insects, that were eaten by John the Baptist in the wilderness. The tree is sometimes referred to as St John’s bread.

In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Matthew 3:1-2

Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit. Edward Paul Abbey, environmentalist (1927-1989)

Author: Judith Russenberger

Environmentalist and theologian, with husband and three grown up children plus one cat, living in London SW14. I enjoy running and drinking coffee - ideally with a friend or a book. View all posts by Judith Russenberger