Sunday, February 1, 2009

Dearest God,

A dark night of the soul turned into a morning of Solomon's strength. Rubbery legs gave way to spiritual peace, hope and confidence. You, O God, are the source of my strength.

I remember the words of St. Paul when he said, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I know the feeling. Sometimes when I pray, I want instant strength. I feel like I need it to face a difficult issue. Yet, it isn't always instant. I have to wait. What I have learned is that waiting is a spiritual discipline. I wait until you are ready to act on my behalf. When I awakened this morning, I realized my answer had come during the night. Surely the angels of heaven had tended to me bringing me the resources I needed. You, O God, are the source of all my resources.

Taking all my notes from the night before, I wrote and my sermon flowed because I felt the joy of Brother Lawrence's faith. I felt his sweet communion with Christ and I knew that his joy was penetrating my own soul. I smiled as I wrote. You, O God, are the source of my joy.

I faced a situation that I felt would be difficult. But instead of being difficult it was okay. I trusted in your strength, in your loving compassion, in your great mercy. I acted on faith because faith is all about trust and I trusted you to be my peace and hope. You, O God are the source of my faith.

I drove to Kentucky nearly falling asleep several times but you awakened me reminding me to be responsible, to stop and take refuge in a local motel. I found a restaurant where I was the only one in the room. You gave me quiet, a quiet for my soul. I fell asleep in your arms. You, O God, are the source of my peace.

You, O God,
are the source
of all
good things.
You stand
before me.
You are
behind me.
You are
above me
and below me.
I am
hemmed in
by you.
Why does
so much
loving compassion
come my way,
dear God?
Why do
you restore
my soul,
refresh my spirit,
renew my being?
I am
but your child.

Love, Andrea