Sunday, April 17, 2011

Dearest God,

There are some things the eyes can see that bespeak your loving grace. I sat in the church choir loft yesterday recovering from being sick for a few days. I wasn't feeling my best but where I sat gave me the opportunity to witness a beautiful act.

It was during the children's anthem. The kids took their places at the front, some climbing the steps to the top. One mother ushered her elementary aged child to take his place. He held a palm in his hand since it was Palm Sunday and he and his mother waved it through the song like all the other children except this child was not like all the rest. Born with terrible deformities and handicaps he does not speak. Even after many surgeries he still faces great difficulties. What I saw was a mother's tender love for her child as she placed her left hand on his back where she gently patted the rhythm to the song. When he would get a little off balance she would very lightly steady him and keep waving the palm. Never once did I see impatience, disgust, or resentment, I saw only pure love in action. I believe her left hand was your hand holding up, encouraging, affirming, and loving. It was more more awe-inspiring than the song.

Come, Gracious God,
display your goodness
for all
the world
to see.
Remind us
to look deeper,
to be patient,
to be still,
and watch
for signs
of your
great love
in your creation,
I pray.
Cause us
to be thankful.

Love always, Andrea