Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Dearest God,

I am a carrier of good news. That means I carry good news to those who need it. No matter whether the sun is shining in my life or I'm in the midst of an ominous storm.

Steve died two days ago, age 36 of melanoma cancer. Yesterday I had to give good news to his father, mother and brother.

Kerry is dying of cancer and she is just 40 something. Today I am going to give her good news.

While pouring out good news to others, I have to let the good news surface for me too. My own dark storms have to part so the good news will reach my own soul.

How much of the gospel do I believe? Do I truly believe there is good news in the midst of trials and tribulations? Do I believe you are active in our lives at all times? Do I trust that imparting the good news in difficult times is something I do not do alone, but believe you are with me?

Faith wakes me up in the morning. Faith sings me its song of light, hope and love. It tells me that life is not only worth living but is fundamentally a joy-filled opportunity. I get to see the sun break through the clouds. I get to enjoy watching my sick grandchild recover. I get to see peace arise out of fear. I get to see people choose to walk toward the light. I get to see the green plant poke through winter's crusty soil. I get to hear the sound of the birds. I get to feel my four -year-old granddaughter's gentle kiss upon my cheek. Faith tells me I've been kissed by God.

You, O God,
are the bearer
of good news.
I just have
a small bag
to carry.
You are the
good news.
And your
good news
is always
joy to
my soul.
Break through
my own
long winter's soul.
Sing me
faith's love song.
Let new life
erupt from me.
Let your
good news
restore my
own soul.

I long for you alone, O God, Andrea