Sunday, January 25, 2009

Dearest God,

What a privilege it was to wrap my arms around my flock, to pray prayers of blessing for them, family by family. Although I was praying a blessing for them, I found myself suddenly blessed. My work with the church albeit difficult at times is a blessing.

I looked out over my flock. The sea of familiar faces brought story after story. I have come to know these people. Many have shared their personal stories with me, some very painful. We have journeyed together, some closer than others. You have been on that journey with us.

I am always amazed at the trust instilled in people. That fragile, vulnerable thing called trust is not shared easily. One has to check things out first. Am I safe? Will I be safe, secure after I share a piece of my life with someone else?

Many have trusted me with their stories, sharing a slice of their life, often the sad slice, the hurting slice. And every time I have been blessed to be trusted.

Trust comes
from you, Lord.
The ability
to trust
another soul
is a gift.
You have
blessed me,
Gracious God,
with my flock.
Although time
is growing short,
I am blessed
to be part
of the blessing
of the church.
You have
blessed me,
Lord,
and I am
so blessed.
Thank you.

Love, Andrea