Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Dearest God,

The sound of your coming sparks joy in my soul.

I was talking with staff when the call came. "Do you know...?" The assistant asked me. The name didn't sound familiar to me. "She was a visitor in the first service last Sunday." I left the office to take the call.

Joyce wanted to talk with me about the spiritual journey to New Mexico. She wanted to know if she could participate in the desert experience. I was thrilled. Some time ago she had attended a retreat in New Mexico and this sounded good to her. "Silence is a challenge for me." She told me. But one she clearly enjoyed. I explained the unique flavor of this retreat and with the exception of two concerns - dietary restrictions and altitude, she is very interested in joining us on this special encounter.

When I told Joyce I was excited that she may be joining us, she responded that we do exciting things at Bethel. She has joined us for worship before and thought we have unique exciting opportunities to offer our members and friends.

I remember back a year ago. Two people sat in the pew for the first time. That's when I announced a mission trip to Mississippi and they were both so inspired that they not only participated in the project but also joined the church and are active in the life of our church. Their spirit is one of Christ.

Have you visited us again?

The sound
of your footsteps
tickle my ears.
Your presence
delights my soul.
Dear God,
joy wells up
within me
at the thought
of your coming.
I allow
the dance within me
to continue,
the song
to rise up
to heaven.

Love always, Andrea