Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Dear God,

I finished packing three more boxes for Africa. More books, my robe and stoles. As I lifted my stoles to pack them, I felt the emotion building in my gut. I handled them as if heaven bound. I wrapped them in plastic and gently placed them in the last box. I leaned down and kissed the plastic.

I asked my administrative assistant to take a picture of me sitting in the sanctuary next to my boxes. I sat down on the hardwood floor and put my hands on a couple of boxes when the emotion came up and spilled over. I leaned my head down and wept. Happy tears, bittersweet tears, sad tears. Tears from years of doing ministry now coming to a new end.

After the picture taking I asked to be alone for prayer.

Thank you,
O God,
for entrusting me
with the work
of ministry.
Thank you
for loaning me
the books,
the robe
the stoles,
the message.
Thank you
for your grace
and love,
for your patience
and help.
I am
so grateful.

Love, Andrea