Friday, October 3, 2008

Dear God,

We sang together, "We have been told, we've seen his face, and heard his voice...". How many times have I dwelt in your tent, listening to your voice? How often have I found myself in the depths of the deep with you?

I think it was the bell ringing that first heightened my awareness of your presence. How many bells did I hear chiming in Europe, calling a people to be alert to the presence of God? It was through such moments that I was told, I saw your face, I heard your voice. This bell reminded me of those.

The miracles of faith are recounted in my mind when I hear the bells toll. For me they are a call to remember, to pause and recall, to reflect and savor the precious moments of grace, of exceptional love, of compassion and mercy. They always draw me back to you.

The signs and sounds of faith are ever present. I can see, hear, taste, and touch eternity. I don't have to go hunting or wander off into the far country to experience the livingness of faith. I have only to travel into the tunnels of my mind to reach you.

As I listen to the women sing their individual parts, I know I am at eternity's door. I know that we are of one mind, each one seeking the Highest, the Holiest, the Great One of Heaven, the Light Shining in the Darkness.

Momentary experiences of light and faith hold me during darker times. They bolster my belief and my commitment to walk in the way of my Lord. These formative moments offer even more of you, yet another memory to cherish as I walk the rest of my days on earth. I have only to pause a moment, take in my surroundings, and allow my memory to flood with you.

The bells toll
offering me
eternity's hand.
I reach out
and you
grab hold.
We partner
in the dance
of faith
and light.
In the awe
of the moment
I dare
to proclaim
my love
for you,
remembering always
your love
for me,
for all.
The bells,
the voices,
the light
shining.

Honoring you, Andrea