Sunday, August 24, 2008

Dear God,

What a beautiful day you gave me with grandchildren…three for a weekend stay. This morning we began our day in the contemplative garden. I picked a few weeds as they searched for the “shiny” polished rocks that I purchase when I go away and spread among the river stones. When I talked with them about the stones representing prayers, they spread them at St. Francis’ feet.

O God, how I want to equip these young children with the knowledge of you. How I want them to develop a faith that will root them in your love, give them tools of courage and hope. How I want them to integrate the experiences of you in such a way that they will be equipped to deal with the troubled waters that will befall them along life's way. I want them to know your love, feel the tentacles of that divine love holding them in every situation that develops. I want them to be models of faith to others around them. They are such beautiful children and how wonderful to make their own contribution to peace and harmony and hope in the world.

As we sat in church together, we were three generations strong, my grandchildren, my daughter and me. And today I remember how I sat with my own grandmother, a wonderful example of faith. I think of how faith is passed on and the loveliness of knowing you together.

Bless us,
O Lord,
that we may be
a blessing
for others.
Reveal to us
the models
of faith
around us.
Show us
the way;
point us
down the path
that will always
lead to you.
Let love
lead the way.

Love, Andrea