Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Dearest God,

Years ago it was difficult for me to return to work after a refreshing vacation. Today was not that way. I walked inside the 52nd Street church facility and felt you waiting for me. Your presence filled the hallway. The smile of my colleague Janice sitting at her desk was yet another sign that you dwelled here. Hugs and surprises awaited me. A homecoming!

I found my desk clean, cleared of debris (old papers and stuff) which I had cared for before I left. Aaaaah! My room, my study looked good to me. And the woods behind the church...it's a park, a beautiful park for God. God's park at Bethel! My goodness!

My 1840's apparel made for me by a church member hung on my coat rack, bonnet and all. I tried it on. I look like a preacher lady in the '40's. How fun, all for our 175th reunion.

Then a member called and together we shared faith, faith living in us, abiding in us, at work in the world. God seeping through our pores, sharing life in us and through us. What could be better?

And then someone stopped by, two different people, burdens heavy on their hearts. One has to put her dog down, her only family member. We prayed standing up since I had to get to my doctor's appointment. The other a member wanting to change her life. How beautiful!

And then the fun party group got together to continue planning our 175th. So many wonderful activities, food, music, games, dance, pictures. I saw you wandering all through the church yesterday. What a welcome sight!

I drove home in the darkness reflecting upon my first day back and I was blessed.

Blessed God,
oftentimes we leave
our work to find you
in our "refreshing time".
We are reluctant
to return,
finding the "green grass"
of refreshment
the greater portion.
Yet you did not leave us;
you stayed put,
awaiting our return,
but you also travel
with us,
giving us
new sights and scenes
of your presence.
The fields of green grass,
the still waters,
the valleys
and the mountains
show off
your presence,
crying out
your kingdom.
Do we notice?
Do we stop
and say like a tour guide,
"...and this is God?"
I have seen you,
missed some places
I am sure,
but I have enjoyed immensely
our time together!
How wondrous you are!

Thankfully, Andrea