Saturday, September 6, 2008

My dearest God,

The sweet fragrance of peach butter cooking on the stove gave me the hint of Autumn, yet another season waiting for its time. The time and season for fall colors, falling leaves, a chill in the air, sweaters, apple picking.

The season of reflection. Looking back, quietly remembering the Autumns behind me. Persons whose lives I have shared, now gone. I give thanks.

I am in the season of transition in my own life. As I move toward retirement and an ending to parish ministry, I reflect upon my beloved churches, the people, our journeys together. Last things are so important and valuable, how we live life in transition is perhaps the most important season of all. Being grateful, giving life to others and to one's own self, setting the stage for change makes an easy path for others to enter. Being true to my own ministry during this time keeps me focused to prepare and plan for the season just ahead.

Sixty one years, how blessed to receive 61 years, lives woven in and out of my own. As I enter the season of sixty two, so shall my eyes look more deeply toward you in leading and guiding my life. I see the golden strand woven in and through the fabric, a sign and symbol of your presence from the beginning. And so I reflect upon your goodness...

Almighty,
yet Gentle One,
whose mercy
and grace
is unending,
I bow down
in this season
of reflection
to kiss
the feet
of my Savior.

Love, Andrea