Lofou, a Lofty Village

Beautiful, well-preserved village

The road to Lofou (from lofos, hill) is long and winding, but the stunning views and the destination make the drive worthwhile. Cautious driving is also required, as a herd of goats suddenly appeared on the road, slowly munching their way towards home with no shepherd in sight!

This well-preserved village is situated at an altitude of 780 meters, approximately 30 km from Limassol. Lofou originated after the Arab invasions in the 7th century AD, when the people were driven from the coasts to the mountains for safety.

I did not drive into the village due to the narrow streets, but continued to a car park further on the right.

Above the car park is the old school of Lofou, a significant landmark boasting classic architecture that is now used for cultural events and festivals. The village can be accessed by stone steps descending from the street behind the school.

The village people were friendly and welcoming - many greeted me as I walked past their houses on the narrow, cobbled streets. Locals congregated for their morning coffee at a central taverna, while a group of tourists spilled into the local cafe beside it.

Further along, I was glad to find a small bakery for refreshments in the blistering heat. While the bakery is named after the village church (Panagia Chrysolofitissa), I did not expect to be served by a priest! May God bless this little oasis with its delicious home-made products.

The elevated position of the village and its name 'Lofou' directed my thoughts towards Isaiah's description of God as the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity:

For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." Isaiah 57:17

The way to the LORD Most High is through contrition and a humble spirit. When we humbly receive the truth of His redemption plan through Christ, He will dwell with us and in us through His Spirit:

Jesus answered and said to him, "If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him." John 14:23

By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. 1 John 4:13

How wonderful that the High and Lofty One, who 'inhabits eternity', should come to earth in a moment of time to be like us, but without sin. Without His condescension, we would have remained far from Him, without hope for eternity.

***

Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin

Would look on me with love

And watch me rise again?

Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea

Would call out through the rain

And calm the storm in me?

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done,

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

(Lyrics, Who Am I? - Casting Crowns)