Friday, September 14, 2007

Dearest God,

I have a heavy heart. In the last two days I have heard more sad news than I have in a long time. Family. Friends. Colleagues. World. I have a heavy heart.

How do I carry this heavy heart, Lord? Do I sling it around on my back, weighed down with rounded shoulders? Do I drag it on the ground, constantly looking at my feet? Do I ignore it pretending it does not exist?

Sometimes I wish I had miracle hands. I would begin in third world countries, bringing relief to the nations and their peoples. Then I would finally end with loved ones so dear to my heart. But my hands cannot do miracles. They are hands for helping and perhaps healing, but not for miracles.

My hands can embrace someone else. They can comfort. They can even guide, show the way. My hands can hold living water for the thirsty or make an offering to someone in need. My hands can love and pray. They can reach toward the sky in possibilities. My hands can warm a cold heart. My hands.

I have a heavy heart.

Your hands
always bring
relief to my weary heart.
Oh God,
I used to come
to you last.
Now I come
to you first.
I bring to you
every person
sorrowing, grieving
right now.
All the lost
and lonely.
I bring to you
my family.
Whisper the joy
of your saving love.
May the Spirit breezes
blow hope and encouragement.
Lift hearts and heads
to the heavens.
Remind us
that we are not alone.
Heavy hearts
are but a sign
of our need for you.
May we carry
the load
to you,
dropping it at your feet.
May we pick up
the yoke
that is light
because we are yoked
with you.
Mend
the tatters and tears
of my own heart,
Lord.
Even I have a heavy heart
on my own.
Let me not hide
from the heart of all hearts.
May my heart
find rest and respite
in you.

Love, Andrea