Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Dearest God,

Like a cool breeze on a hot, muggy day I worshipped with the Carmelites. Refreshment awaited me as I stepped into the small chapel. Yes, God is here, I whispered.

I am overcome by your Spirit as I step into their presence. There is some kind of radiant joy that restores my balance, calling me back to primary intentions. Love, love is present. I return to love, Your love.

Holiness always calls out to me. Perhaps the sound of angels' voices or saints' urging, a life with you awakens me, getting my attention. "Is it you, Lord?" I might cry out with my own inner voice. "Is it you?"

As the Living Word is read, I hear your voice, the call to faithfulness, the voice of Great Love. And I am drawn in. As the word speaks, I step forward to receive the Eucharist, the holy bread and cup, the body and blood, the life-giving food of the Spirit. The holy meal of Jesus. I am taking in the person of Christ, I hear my own voice declaring. I am welcoming the Holy into myself. I am being fed with you.

Our prayers rise like incense in this sacred space, moving beyond the brick and mortar to the place of heaven. I breathe deeply the love that offers them. They scatter all over the world, taking our love with them.

And the service is over. My brother Bill and I share pleasantries with the prioress, Sister Jean Alice and then we walk out into the monastery hall, having known we have been with you.

Holy, holy, holy,
my soul cries out.
Holy are you,
Great God
who feeds
your own people
the Living Love
of your Son.
Feed me,
feed me,
Lord,
I want this
holy meal.
I have heard
your voice,
tasted of your peace.
Transforming Love,
my heart sings out
its joy.
To you.

Love always, Andrea