Sunday, May 29, 2011

Dear God,

You hold the keys to life and death. One minute we can be living and the next, dying. Dying can lead to new life.

A friend's brother-in-law, age 47, died today at a soccer field where children played in a tournament. Because a cardiologist was close by holding a defibrillator, the man returned to life.

Although we will never know why one lives and another dies, I wonder why some receive second chances. Perhaps it is because he or she never had a first chance for whatever reason.

The man at the soccer field is an avowed atheist. Several people at the hospital have told him he must have had a guardian angel. Some call it a miracle because he was actually in his car and stepped out when he needed air. He collapsed. His heart stopped. Someone saw him and called for help. I wonder what you think.

Teach us
to trust you
in all situations,
dear God.
Help us
to live
as if
we are ready
to die.
Hold us
in the palm
of your hand,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Dearest God,

Today I got in touch with the finer things in life. I tore my hamstring, at least that's what it felt like when I was trying to push up deep, heavy roots and my shovel handle broke right off knocking me down. On my way down I reinjured that muscle that generally works well for me. I could barely make it into the house, wash the dirt from my gardening body, and start treating the injury.

Rarely do I pause long enough to consider the wonders of the human body. I don't take the time to think about the wondrous way it functions. I have to confess at age 64 I just expect my body to do whatever I deem important to do. Whether cutting down trees, digging out huge roots, or carrying heavy debris up the hill, I think everything will operate just fine. Today I learned AGAIN that while my body can do so much, I have to tenderly care for it and prepare well for big tasks requiring a lot of energy, strength, and long hours. This afternoon I failed.

O Lord,
I fail sometimes.
I don't
consider everything
before I
plunge in.
What can I say?
I love life.
I have
a zeal
and enthusiasm
for life
that puts me
out there
to do whatever
needs doing.
I allow
my mind
and body
to disconnect
and that
at times
gets me
into trouble.
Forgive me,
I pray.
Teach me again
the lessons
of loving care,
quiet reflection,
self responsibility,
and trust.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 27, 2011

Dear God,

You have brought me so many life lessons. More often than not, they have risen out of the ashes of loss, sorrow, and grief. In those particular moments, you set my face toward you where I listened allowing my tears to flow in trust.

Not every situation in which I find myself am I content. As a child I wanted more. As a teenager, I wanted more emotionally. As a wife and mother, I wanted to be more. Sometimes I dreamed of being somewhere else other than where I was. But in every case you whispered to me the hope that comes out of trust.

As my husband and I talked about where to go on this friday night, we came to the conclusion that we just liked being where we are. He told me while he enjoyed being with others, it was just nice being the two of us at home. We sat on the couch and just smiled at one another.

Like St. Paul you remind me how valuable it is to be content in whatever situation I find myself. Now true, I am not in a refugee camp or living in poverty wondering how I will feed my children. However, you have shown me the benefits of trusting you no matter where I find myself in life circumstances. Every day is not intended to be a perfect day; yet perfect trust can come out of an imperfect day.

Teach me
to be patient,
to live meaningfully
in the
present moment.
I am yours,
O God;
sometimes I forget
and want
to lead
my own life.
I want life
on my
own terms.
But when
I trust
in you,
every day
is more
than I
could have manipulated
on my own.
Remind me daily
to be thankful
and to
trust you.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Dearest God,

How I long for you, Wondrous God. As I continued to clear debris from our woods, I came upon a tiny white flower literally crawling upon the base up between two maple trees. The foam flower clings to the wood growing its flowers in all its radiant beauty. It was so gorgeous that I called out to my husband to come and see.

I would love to cling to you that way, dear God, and grow into a subject of beauty. Although the delicate woodland flower is not deeply rooted, it still grows in an unlikely place. I want to grow with you like that.

As I ponder the benefits of faith, I imagine two people hand in hand, God and human. Even though at times it appears faith is unlikely, it appears almost as a surprise. How close and intimate.

There are so many ways, O Lord, you use to teach us about a life with you. No matter how great or small, you point to objects as a means to stretch and grow us. Today the foam flowers spoke to me of trusting you to keep me close and challenging me to grow in you.

Thank you
for object lessons
that spark
new life
in us,
in me.
Speak,
dear God,
and cause me
to listen,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Dear God,

I am finding treasures in the woods. Today I found a toy holster. When I gave it to my neighbor, she was delighted to have yet another childhood memory.

You have taught me to believe that every day is a gift, a treasure. You have given me eyes to look for treasure even in the most unsuspecting places. When I come across something, I realize the gem is yours given to me. Sometimes in the midst of a difficult situation, the gift is peace or hope. Always it is faith.

Glorious God,
you rain blessings
on me
every day.
Make me
truly thankful,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Dear God,

We tried twice to start a bonfire; each time it fizzled. We had to ask our fireman neighbor to help get it started. At first it was just a few branches of our nearly 10' tall woods debris. But then when it took hold, it became a raging fire.
I think that was what Oprah was talking about today on her final show, a raging fire. She began her finale by saying her success was due to your amazing grace. When she ended it, she simply said, "To God be the glory." To begin with amazing grace and move to God be the glory is to point to a raging fire.

I am so thankful to people who spark a fire in others. At times I have been too low to start a fire in myself. But others came along with their own light and shined it on me. I took a little spark and my own life and faith became a raging fire. When the light of my marriage went out for my husband and me and we separated, we too couldn't find even a spark. But then thousands of prayers went up for us and the wind of your fire spread to us and suddenly we were lit up with the divine fire of your spirit. I've watched it happen to many others.

As I ponder the wonder of your spirit fire, I feel a sense of power to do what I could not do without it. I believe I really can do all things with your help. I can be a better person, woman, wife, mother, grandmother, and pastor. I can create environments where others can begin to dream their own potential and step into the future with the hand of some blessed other willing to share their gospel fire.

As I gave thanks for Eric, our neighbor fireman and for Oprah, a talk show host with faith, I remembered once again that your divine light is always aglow.

Loving God,
thank you
for your light,
for the fire
of your spirit.
Thank you
for a
single spark
that can create
a radiant fire.
Burn within me,
O Lord,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 23, 2011

Dearest God,

Is the earth convulsing? The volcanic eruption in Iceland and the horrific tornadoes in the Midwest USA seem to answer yes. What is happening to the planet?

Where can peace be found, O Lord? As rescue teams search for the lost, where will they find peace? Will peace be found in the mountains? Will peace be found in the seas? Will peace be found on earth as it is in heaven?

Reveal to us
the secrets
of the universe
where we
can find peace.
Open our eyes, Lord,
cause us
to see you.
Make us instruments
of your peace,
dear God,
so we
can spread it
to all
the world,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Dear God,

What do you do when you wait upon the Lord, the preacher asked. What do you do? Sitting in the front row of the choir loft, I wanted to slip away and ponder the question in prayer. But there was no way out so I allowed my mind to wander. While he offered five things to do while we wait, you brought to mind the many gifts I have received while waiting.

During my time with breast cancer, you brought me an enhanced vision of your presence. While I waited during an estrangement with my daughter, you gave me courage, strength, and faith. As our church struggled to make important decisions for the future, you blessed me with wisdom and patience. As my husband and I were separated, you provided perseverance, hope, and trust. During my times of waiting you have been a powerful force in my life.

As I walk the journey with a continuing hurt in my life, you are honing my skills of humility and obedience as I work to keep myself clear of resentment and bitterness. When I get triggered by a comment that makes a past hurt sting once again, I am conscious of the fact that I am at another crossroad where I have the choice of several responses. I know I can give resentment a chance to take root or I can give thanks for the chance to strengthen my abilities to do just the opposite and what a gift that is. I look at my husband and remember how that gift alone helped to save our marriage.

I know that right now while I wait upon you, using the same principles, trusting in your grace, relying on my faith, and keeping a pure heart toward those who have hurt me will ultimately bring healing and wholeness. Although at times it is frustrating, painful, and humbling, waiting upon you can bring extraordinary blessings.

Living and Loving God,
I sit
at your feet
waiting.
In this
prime position
you speak,
challenge,
disciple,
and stretch me.
You teach me
the secrets
of the universe
while I wait.
What more
could I
possibly want?

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Dear God,

With your help I am changing the lines of our fence row. Nearly seven years ago the line was ugly, straight, and high. There was no definition, no openings, and no real life. Yet, by your leading to welcome your spirit onto our property where others can walk through the woods, pause to meditate, to pray, and to reflect upon eternal themes, I am cleaning and clearing. Today at the end of the fence leading into the woods, I cut down maple and wild cherry trees wound tight with hearty, deadly vines. As the trees fell, the light suddenly burst into being. The sunshine fell upon my face and I felt warmed by its glow.

Later when I went inside and climbed the steps to the second floor, I looked out and saw how the lines had been altered. It was if I was seeing for the first time what you had seen all along, each plant and tree defined, taking their rightful place, breathing in new life all around them, the light shining through, and their gentle movements with the breath of your spirit.

As is so often the case, I learn life lessons during daily exercises. As I cut down dead trees, dig up old roots, and remove vines determined to kill, I realize you set forth opportunities to learn every single day. When I apply the lessons to my own life, I identify the dead places within me, the archaic roots that haphazardly steer my life, and the vines that choke me. In those moments I stop, pray, and give thanks for without the exercises how would I ever grow into the design you intend?

Lead me, Lord,
to do
your bidding.
Continue to
teach me
the lessons
I need
to learn.
Remould the
rigid lines
in my
own life
so you
have the chance
to reshape me
the way
you desire,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 20, 2011

Dearest God,

I saw her face for the first time since I returned to Maine. The look of devotion, humility, and love, St. Terese is still the model of faith for me. I see in her eyes the look of generosity, a longing for Christ, and a commitment to faith which for her is love for Christ.

I am grateful to you, O God, for the living models of faith, those people I see who are living a meaningful life with you. When my eye catches a glimpse, I am reminded that I too am to be like them. I am to be a pilgrim searcher, one who longs for Christ, who lives in his shadow, and serves with love, patience, and obedience. I cannot be around them without being challenged to rise up, to remember the great sacrifice made for my life, and to make a difference in the world carrying Christ with me everywhere I go.

I think of Aldith who prays constantly, for Jean who serves others daily, for Robbie, true to his call to ministry. I think of Heather who is courageous, for Caroline who sings your praise, for Edith, a faithful witness, for Patrice who desires to work for you, and for Linda and Larry, so giving, just to name a few. They are, each one, a follower of your son and in their quiet ways without frill and attention go about their living taking their lead from you.

Tender and Loving God,
thank you
for the saints
who live
for you,
who touch
and inspire lives
around them,
some even
hundreds of years later.
Thank you
for their faith,
their love,
their purpose
and mission
on earth
and in heaven.
I am
so grateful.

Love, Andrea
 

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Dear God,

In tonight's choir practice one line jumped out at me, "You are the song." I've said that to you before. You are the song. You are the melody, the harmony, the shift from the minor to the major key. You are the music, dear God, you are the song!

As I work in the woods, you are the song singing to me of the beauty of nature. As I talk with my grandchildren, you are the song of love, a love deep down in my bones. As I sing in worship, you are the song expressing faith, grace, and mercy.

In the deepest darkness you sing to us of light. In the midst of horror you sing to us of hope. In the midst of sorrow you sing to us of compassion. In the midst of triumph you sing to us of praise and thanksgiving.

You are
the song
of joy,
Gracious God,
the song
of glory.
Keep on singing
to us,
O Lord,
I pray,
and challenge us
to sing
with you
eternity's message.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Dear God,

I want my grandchildren to see the sunset, I told my husband when he asked me why I was clearing my neighbor's woods. In order to see the field where the sun daily sets, with my friend's permission, I started cleaning up fallen debris and carrying it to a burn pile, cutting down unwanted invasive trees, and sawing huge dead limbs so I could carry smaller pieces to the pile. The deeper into the woods I went, the closer I came to the field where I could see the light.

As nature reminded me of yet another life lesson, I realized once again how important and valuable it is to clear the emotional, psychological, and spiritual debris from my soul. Too much accumulated stuff can hinder and even block the light. When the light is blocked, all I can see is darkness and darkness will never allow me to get a clear picture of what life is all about. In fact it will only show me the dark side of a situation. When the light goes out, I am blind.

There is a sweetness, a grace in knowing what to do when the light goes out in my life. I know where to turn, who to talk to, and how to make my way in the darkness. I know the source of faith and trust and how to get where I need to go. My problem sometimes is resistance and stubbornness. I lay too long in darkness before I move on and out. But when I do take action, make decisions, take your hand, and start the move, like in the woods, I move closer and closer to your glorious light.

Make me susceptible
to your
glowing light,
dear God.
Remind me daily
to step
into the light,
to avoid
the darkness,
and to
trust your will
for my life.
Show me
the way
when I
can't see it.
Teach me
to praise,
to celebrate
when the light
shines through
once again.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Dearest God,

Nature is teaching me lessons of faith. As I carried rain-drenched dead logs up the hill in our woods to my burn pile, I uncovered small treasures. When I discovered a small area of forget-me-nots, I thought about the generous way in which you help me remember what I have forgotten. Tears welled in my eyes as memories of my grandmother's farm unfolded.

I remember walks with Grandma in the 80 acre woods to find wildflowers, wild strawberry plants, and black raspberry bushes. Frequently she would point out little boys britches, bleeding hearts, lily of the valley, and bluebells. They were so beautiful.

During my trek up and down the hill laden with branches, limbs, and small trees, you brought to mind faith experiences I had forgotten. I was reminded of the countless times you touched my life, turned me around, taught me a lesson, urged me to change, answered my prayer, corrected me, gave me hope, put your arms around me, challenged me to forgive, and gave me second chances. How could I forget even one of them?

As I listened to nature's call to immerse myself in the beauty all around me, I recalled the beauty of faith and the joy of my life with you. I realized once again how important it is to trust you in all things. In every case, in every memory, trust was the key element in every experience.

Like many of the neglected, forgotten wildflowers in our woods, I sometimes forget just how many times you have engaged me in matters of faith. I forget to tend to my faith, building it up, spreading my wings, taking risks and being courageous. I forget and then fail to breathe in another opportunity you desire to place just ahead of me.

Today as I walked up to the house as the rain fell from the skies, I vowed to remember your call to remember, to cherish, to be thankful, to learn, to listen, to follow, and to celebrate.

Merciful God,
you fill me
with blessings
from on high.
You whisper
your love
and challenge me
to grow.
May I remember
to listen
for your voice,
to be still,
reverent, and ready.
Let me always
remember you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 16, 2011

Dearest God,

Each day unfolds and swiftly goes by so much faster than I remember it as a child. The days seem shorter than they were in the 40's and 50's. Is it because I am older and more aware of the meaning and value of each day of life? How do I learn to savor each day, give thanks, and live a life worthy to be at your side?

This morning after writing you, I donned my work clothes and went outside. Carrying my bucket of clippers and garden tools in one hand and my rake, shovel, and saw in the other, I quickly went to work clearing, cleaning, and taking down dead and invasive trees. I ripped and pulled vines and other unwanted debris from the woods and fence row. I even took out a large unsightly stump. In the misty rain I kept cool and comfortable and worked until my hands, arms, back and legs screamed "HELP!".

Later after a long hot shower, I looked out the porch windows. I could barely see what I had accomplished; yet, I knew I had made a dent in beautifying our property. As I sat reading a book, I realized I had less years in front of me than behind me. I have fewer years to make a difference to our land and to the world. I thought to myself, how well will I live them?

Help me live
in your grace,
dear God;
teach me
to be grateful,
loving, and giving.
Inspire me
to make
a difference
in precisely
the ways
you want
me to.
Let my days count
for you.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Dearest God,

Returning to your home of worship on the cape brought sweet anticipation as we drove to our summer chapel, Church on the Cape United Methodist Church. When we arrived hugs and kisses awaited us, just like we have come to expect from you. Isn't that what everyone should foresee from your church, your community of faith-filled people?

During the service a phrase lifted up for me, "resurrection song." I believe the reason we should look forward to a warm welcome in your home is because the faithful, those who are seeking to draw nearer to you and to others, are singing a resurrection song. Each person, including myself, has at one time or another moved from death to life. Everyone has walked out of the dark shadows into your glorious light. Some of us have experienced these moments so many times that we could write a book. We know death and darkness; we have traveled there many times. But we also are well acquainted with life and light. We have basked in your wondrous glory. What else could we do but sing a resurrection song?

Lord of Light and Life,
we sing
because we simply
cannot not sing!
We must praise,
worship and
adore you;
for you
have done
astonishing things.
You welcome us home
so we can
welcome others.
All glory
to you,
Gracious and Merciful God.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Dear God,

What joy there is in partnering with you in preserving, maintaining, and beautifying your cosmos! As you dreamed your creation into being, did you also imagine friends who would tenderly care for it?

My husband, neighbor, and I dragged fallen limbs, branches, and logs out of our woods into the middle of our yard to burn them. More and more we could see deeper into our small forest. A walk through rendered succulent plants, wildflowers, budding ground cover and even flowering bulbs, each one a beautiful surprise. Over the course of the summer we want to dig, lift out, and transplant these hidden wonders making them part of our intentional landscape. As we view our work in your creation, we marvel at the joy that is ours and yours.

What can
I say
to you,
Master Designer?
What can
anyone say
to the gifts
you have given?
More and
more blessings come
as we work
to uncover
forest treasures,
all the work
of your hands.
I sing
your praise,
Gracious God.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 13, 2011

Dear God,

I spent a portion of the day working on the side yard where leaves had accumulated and remained all winter long. I was thrilled to find every Lily of the Valley plant growing, rising up from its resting place, and getting ready to bloom. These tiny precious white blooms are fragrant, sweet, and remind me of the flowers that used to bloom every spring at our home in Elwood, Indiana. Thank you so much.

As I raked the leaves, I realized that my work last spring to grow grass failed because the leaves were dark and heavy preventing the son to shine through giving the small blades an opportunity to grow where they were planted. That made me think about the light and how important it is for warmth, growth, and life.

How many times, O Lord, did I allow debris to collect in my soul robbing me of the chance to grow? How many times did I fail to clean up my clutter? How many times did darkness overtake me squeezing out your light? Too many times. I am sure you remember every time.

At the same time I remember trusting you to carry me through dark times by clinging to the light. In those places faith flowered and grew not only sustaining me through a season of difficulty but also causing me to grow and thrive. Beauty came out of those moments because that's what happens when trust and faith hold hands in prayer and work.

You alone
have power
to grow faith
and trust.
You are
the sole source
of eternity's love.
You shine
your light
upon us
giving us
our own power
to move forward,
to make changes,
to be transformed.
You bring artistry
and loveliness
when we allow
your light
a place
to shine.
Teach us,
O Lord,
to trust
again and again
and again.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Dearest God,

More and more when I am sick, I have a peace in you. When something goes wrong, my mind quiets, my heart finds its divine rhythm, and my body stills itself to ride out the crisis. This time spent with you is perhaps the best part of my life.

Learning to be unafraid and trusting in you for out-of-control situations teaches me lessons of faith. When I am unable to manage a physical health problem, I have to trust in you, be faithful to be peaceful, and drink in your life-giving nectar. The more I give myself over to you, the more I learn to trust more deeply. When I fail, wanting to manipulate my well being to be the way I want it to be, I miss the chance to take your hand, to listen to your comforting words, and to take the steps toward physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. When I come to grips with your gestures of love in the world, I have a much better opportunity to live life the way you intended.

Forgive me
when I
fail you,
O God.
Lift me up,
reminding me
that I
am not
the director
of the cosmos.
You are.
Teach me
to bend,
to lean
toward you,
to trust,
and to obey.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Dear God,

Do I focus too much on the "stuff" around me? Do I spend too much time accumulating, sorting, organizing, and putting away stuff to be used for a later time? Do I?

It seems we brought half of Indiana with us this time. I had so many boxes to unload, unpack, and put away. I spent the whole day doing this activity. Could I have spent my time better praying, worshipping, and serving others?

As I ponder my faith and life, I wonder how to simplify in order to be faithful to your call to me to be more than I am, to do your plan, to live out your will for my life. At day's end am I faithful? Have I served you well? Or have I just spent another day just juggling all my stuff?

Make me
an instrument
of your life,
dear God;
let my focus
be upon you
and your desires.
Teach me
the way
of love,
grace, compassion,
and service,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Dearest God,

Our home looked so good when we arrived tonight. I was flooded with memories of our purchase nearly seven years ago. Our hard work had paid off. We felt its welcome when we put the key in the lock and turned. As we stepped inside, I felt all the love we built into every wall, ceiling, and floor upstairs, downstairs, and in the middle. It was good to be home.

Years ago I longed for home. I thought if I bought my grandmother's home upon her death, I would be home. When I considered turning my home into a retreat center, I imagined being home. When we bought this Victorian home, I was sure I would find home. But you taught me a valuable lesson when you reminded me that home is a life with you. It is not a place, a happening, an experience, a city, town, or a designated space. Home is a relationship with you, an abiding, loving partnership where we walk and talk together always keeping in mind that we are not equals, rather a father and daughter, a parent and child, God the divine and Andrea the human.

When I acknowledge my home with you, I can feel comfortable, confident, secure, and at peace wherever I am, no matter where I reside, visit, or travel. I am always at home when I am with you.

O God,
Source of Love and Relationship,
thank you
for the gift
of home.
Teach me
to belong
wherever I am,
expressing gratitude
for the connection
you have
made possible.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 9, 2011

Dear God,

The day dawned bright and beautiful as we prepared to head east to Maine. We stopped at the end of the driveway to pray for safety for ourselves and others as we started our trek. It was a perfect day: cloudless blue sky, sunshine, and 72 degrees.

Throughout the day we gazed upon the majesty of your creation. Spring was breaking in everywhere, in the towns and cities, the countryside, hills, mountains and streams. Greens in many hues, pinks, and whites stole our attention as we drove through Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. By day's end, we had no traffic jams or stopped construction zones. At 8:01 p.m. we stopped at our favorite restaurant in Lewisburg pleading for entrance one minute past closing time. They were gracious allowing us to fill our many plates with food from the buffet. Sleeping in our favorite motel rounded out the perfect day as we gave thanks for all our blessings.

O God,
guide us always
to trust
in you.
Lead us
to praise
and thanksgiving.
Make our hearts
grateful for
your many gifts.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 8, 2011

My dearest God,

Love met me at the door; no, love nearly knocked me over. My husband and I decided to participate in worship at Bethel United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, the church I served for nine years. As I stepped through the first glass doorway and started to open the next door, someone burst through the door, grabbed me up, and gave me a gigantic hug. Then there was another one and another one and another one. By the time I got to my pew I had been hugged 30 or 40 times. Wow!

When the worship was over, more hugs greeted me. Stories were shared. Updates were given. Smiles, well wishes, affirmation, and faith growing up took hold of me. It was a glorious time in your house.

When I was an active pastor it was all about giving. As a visitor this morning, it was all about receiving. As I took in the countless expressions of love, I thought about your design for the church. Every person is entitled to be wowed by God's love inside the church. If we really greeted every man, woman, teen, and child with gestures of your love, there would be no doubt that you were alive in the world. Everyone would come to your church awaiting your personal visit.

Remind us
that we are
your ambassadors
on this planet.
Teach us
to always
reach out
in love.
Help us
inspire others
with your hope,
peace, and joy.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Dear God,

The walls are tumbling down. Erected at a time when souls were bruised, battered, and bleeding, we built thick, non-penetrable concrete walls to protect us from more disappointment, hurt, sorrow, and grief. But now in the new world we are building alone and together, step by step, prayer by prayer, we are taking down the obstacles that kept us from one another. Instead we are putting up strands of heavenly diamonds that we can walk through at any time recognizing the glorious nature of eternity's hope.

It is so much more valuable, meaningful, and lovely to take down walls than build them. It is so much more fun to replace them with sparkling things that remind us of your tender care. It is so much more peaceful to create scenes of tranquility and harmony than work with the evil one to stamp out the light and expand the darkness.

I do know the difference between my own inventions and your creative, imaginative innovations. One has passion but the other has passion and divine inspiration. As I work more with you, taking your lead, following your direction, the more I will color your world with faith, love, and glorious resurrection.

Loving God,
keep me
on task
doing your
divine will.
Remind me
to take
your lead,
follow your direction,
sing your song,
and gasp
at your
awesome work.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 6, 2011

Dear God,

My, oh my, how the weight shifts when we choose to follow the new plan, your plan for our lives. We learned a long time ago how to put pressure on ourselves, our marriage, and others. Seemingly, it was good to live with pressure pushing us to do more, work harder, take on extra responsibilities, and do it all with a sense of arrogant humility if that makes any sense at all.

But today working under pressure, pushing each other for decisions, we opted for that new old plan that you set before us. Within seconds the decision was made, the pressure was off, we wrapped our arms around each other, and then we sat down for a cup of specialty coffee. In the next hours driving up to northern Indiana we simply enjoyed the lush green landscape, the freshly plowed fields, the budding trees, and colorful spring flowers. What a difference a simple yes to you makes.

Loving God,
your grace
follows us
wherever we go.
We cannot escape
from love
that seeks
us out,
whispering to us
the secrets
of eternal joy.
As we
turn to you,
opting to
follow you,
we surrender
the hold
of false pride,
unrealistic expectations,
and the need
to control
our situation.
We give you
our thanks.

Love, Andrea and Harold

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Dear God,

It was something in our pastor's message that triggered the thought. What if I was intentional about my every move during the day, pondering my response to the environment around me? At the end of the day I could listen to your response as I asked myself the questions. Was I loving, caring, generous? Did I regard people with joy and tender compassion? Did I give? Did I share? Did I treat the planet and all of nature with a gentle spirit? Was I faithful?

If I lived each day with the thought that you would render an accounting, I am sure I would be more attentive to my thoughts, attitudes, and actions. I would attend to every matter realizing that you are aware of everything about me. If I did not consider this very important part of my life with you, then I would tend to be reckless, careless, and haphazard in my approach to life circumstances. And why would I want to be that way?

Lead me,
O God,
to live eternity
every day.
Help me
to revere
the earth
and all
her peoples.
Teach me
to be
more understanding
and compassionate.
Lead me
to the way
of peace.
Make me
your own,
dearest God,
a child
of the
Living God.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

My dear God,

"Where is Christ in your life?" My colleague asked me the question we have been asking every Wednesday for nearly 25 years. Indeed where is Christ?

During the next hour I spoke of faith, how sweet it has become, particularly in the last two decades. I poured out just some of the ways you have touched my life, bringing me great challenges, discipline, correction, and opportunity. Tears welled in my eyes as my colleague read Ecclesiastes 3. There is a time and season for all things. That I know so well as I recounted the seasons of birth and death, hope and despair, love and hatred, the scattering of stones and the gathering of them together. My life of faith by your hand has been a season of change and transformation.

As I consider your mighty power coupled with your gentle love and grace, I know how those things working together make a difference in a human life. I know you do not press us to the wall to do something; however, I know our circumstances can bring us to a place where we have to bend not only to save ourselves but to see the light, to surrender, and to make dramatic decisions that can change the world around us.

I am certain that left to my own devices, I will walk my own way, do my own will, conquer my own "enemies", and at the end celebrate my own victories. But what am I left with? A list of my own accomplishments? And what is that but my own self-centered picture.

When I align myself with you, desiring your way, your will, and your plan, my life can look so much different. When partnering with you, I can see what is not possible on my own. I can hear what I could not hear. I can taste and drink heavenly food and drink. I can bask in the sunshine of your love and sip from your living well. I can move mountains, walk through the valley of the shadow of death, and overcome the harshest environments that face me. I can love with an unconditional love and walk through doors previously closed. I can do impossible things. I can carry your banner and reveal it to all who have eyes to see it. I can sing praises with the voices of a thousand angels and dance the dance of eternity. Faith opens me to a whole new world every single day. There I choose from your infinite number of resources that help me live the life you have created for me, not just for myself, but also for people you place in my path. Faith gives me the option to point to you as the center of the cosmos, giving you credit for the miracle work that takes place in your name.

As my spiritual friend led us in prayer, I realized once again how vital it is to be held accountable in this life. If I truly want to walk the walk of faith, then I need the challenges of holding my feet to the fire, answering hard questions, changing my direction, lifting my eyes, and saying yes once again to the Lord of life.

Your Greatness,
I do
bow down
breathing my prayers
of gratitude.
I am today
because you
changed me yesterday.
I will
be refined today
to prepare me
for tomorrow.
Your power
and love
are the
greatest blessings
in my life.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Dearest God,

My cousin asked if we could get together. Needing a break, we sat at Olive Garden, eating our meal, yet not really noticing. We were sharing the benefits of faith. We concluded that you prepare us for life's troubled journeys.

We were amazed at the routes of faith you provide. Hers was the purchase of a women's bible that she read straight through. Suddenly it was as if Esau and Jacob were her close friends. Mine has been visions that prompted responses as an act of faith.

Although my cousin lives in Arizona and I have only seen her three times in the last two decades, something has changed between us. We talked about the beauty of faith and how we develop a resiliency to trudge victoriously through life's challenges. Although pain and sorrow strike, we have the knowledge and hope of tomorrow, even today through faith.

As I gazed at her, I welcomed her newfound faith, her trust in you, and her love for you even in the midst of her daughter's daily dying with cancer. While she wept because she watched a single tear stream down her daughter's stoic cheek this morning, she celebrates faith that sees through the tear to the other side of death.

As I watched her walk to her car three hours later, I breathed a thankful prayer for her witness, her testimony, her hope, her courage and strength and most of all her faith in you.

What a week
this is
turning out
to be,
Great Lord.
Like an
old gospel singer
used to say,
it is
testimony time.
In just
two days
I have witnessed
the ultimate gift
you give us
in faith
and I
have celebrated
with great joy.

Love to you in all things, Andrea

Monday, May 2, 2011

Dear God,

In the midst of the death of her grandfather, the difficult illness of her only child, and a troubled marriage, she spoke of faith as the source of her every day joy. It is God who helps me she said.

I remember her struggle with you. I remember her rebellion, her depression, sadness, and despair. I remember her losses, too many for a woman so young, and her grief. At the same time I remember her pilgrimage to today's faith.

I don't know whether sorrow brings out faith or whether faith leads us to sorrow. I just know that faith forged out of sorrow brings more faith, peace, hope, and joy. I have seen it happen again and again. It is sweet, miraculous, I think.

I called my friend today because we hadn't talked in a long time. I listened to her as she opened up with joy about her faith and trust in you. I heard no conditions put on her child's illness, on her marriage, or anything else as a condition for faith. I simply heard trust in her voice.

We laughed several times. I have learned that that is what faith does for us, gives us the ability to laugh, to hope, to enjoy life, to trust in you, and to find value in daily living. Our conversation was a testimony to our faith in you, our trust in your guidance and love, and our desire to live a life bearing your name.

O God,
our Gracious Heavenly Parent,
we sit
at your feet,
counting our blessings.
The number
is infinite;
we cannot count
them all.
Our hearts swell
as we think
about you
and your grace,
your wisdom,
help, and generosity.
Give us,
we pray,
the ability
to praise you
all day long,
every day,
even into eternity.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Dearest God,

Just as we write a page in our life journey every day, so we pen our faith's life. Today our pastor shared a story during her sermon, a story about a favorite song at church camp. The minute she began to say the words to the song, I was suddenly back there as a church camp counselor with teenagers from churches all over Indiana. I remembered being at the campfire when another counselor picked up his guitar and started singing that song. Before I knew it we were all singing along. "Have you seen Jesus, my Lord, he's here in plain view. Take a look, open your eyes..." the song went. In a couple of weeks we were singing at our church.

That song drew me closer to you, to the dark night skies where stars sparkle like jewels, and to love so exquisite that tears begin to fill and spill because love is so filling that when the whole person is full, it leaks out into the world for others. It's really a great plan I think.

As I reflect upon that chapter of faith in Fort Wayne, Indiana and the ways my faith took a deeper root, grew and multiplied exponentially, and eventually came to me in a call to ministry, I am awash in joyous memories. My mind is filled once again with divine love that spilled out onto me bringing more color, beauty, goodness, and grace than I ever realized was possible. Although I am given so much by my family, you, dear God, give me even more. Why would I not respond to you giving you first place in my heart?

As I allow my mind to travel my faith story from the beginning to now, I fill up with gratitude because I know no one comes to faith alone. It is a series of people, experiences, love given and shared, a word that comes to life, a story that penetrates human defenses, a spiritual quest that develops, and openings materialize taking us to places we never dreamed of before. I have so many to thank for helping to build me a faith that elicits my response to life daily. Even more, I turn to you, giving thanks for love that urges a relationship to begin and last through eternity.

You are God;
there is
no one
like you.
I sing out
my praise
and thanksgiving
to you,
God Most High.
For you
have given me
life's great gift
in faith.

Forever yours, Andrea

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Dear God,

"Grandma, where is heaven?" my granddaughter asked. "Where is Jesus?" another inquired. My grandchildren are asking important questions.

While we ate our Panera Bread specials we talked about heavenly matters. As a pastor I have watched people agonize over the death of a loved one wanting, wishing they had had memorable conversations about life after death. But alas, it was too late. So I have begun talking to my grandkids about the subject.

I want these beautiful children of my children to know that eternal life exists not starting after death but right now. For it is a bit of eternity every time we are together. The joy we feel and the love we share is, I am sure, an experience of eternity where perpetual light shines every day, where love is warm, rich, and full for every person, where peace and harmony is the name of the game, and finally where faith is visible, shared, beautiful, grace-filled, and glorious. I desire to help create a picture of unity where only the truest and deepest selves are revealed. I believe with all my heart that heaven begins here and now in the way we love and care for another, for the earth, and for all living creatures. Talking lovingly and softly to my neighbor's yappy dog makes heaven real.

I long to lead my grandchildren into divine joy not because I want them to be happy. Another doll or modern technological instrument can make them happy for a time but there is nothing eternal about that kind of happiness. I want them to carry with them on this earth an eternal joy that erupts within them and outside them every day. While I don't have the power to give them faith I can open the door to faith that elicits that medium of joy. What better gift can I give my granddaughters and grandsons?

Only you,
Most Loving God,
can reveal
the secrets
of the cosmos.
Only you
can touch,
heal, inspire,
renew, restore,
and enlighten
the human heart,
mind, and soul.
Only you
can set
our feet
on the path
to faith,
peace, hope,
love, and joy.
Only you,
O Lord,
only you.
Teach us,
dear God,
to come
to you
for life.

Love, Andrea