Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Dear God,

There are some moments when love grows strong between my husband and me. When I think I love him all I can, I find myself loving him more. I believe he feels the same way.

When love grows tired and my vessel seems nearly empty, I turn to you for filling because I simply do not have the energy to renew my own source. Suddenly my sides expand and I am full. Your infilling power astounds me again and again.

I have been empty. I have been full. The difference is when I deplete my vessel of life-giving love, I can always count on you.

Grow in me,
O Lord,
let your love
grow in me.
Let it flow
out of me
to others,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Monday, August 29, 2011

Dearest God,

I tromped out into the wet garden to pick vegetables for my salsa. It was exciting because it has been years since I had time and energy to grow a garden and make my own salsa.

As I stood peeling cucumbers, chopping tomatoes and peppers, slicing green onions, and pouring in all the zesty herbs, vinegar, and surprise ingredients, I was intrigued once again by the whole process of growth. Tiny seeds in dirt do actually become colorful, healthy vegetables for human consumption.

Although I do not fully appreciate food that I buy and eat from the grocery; I do appreciate the way seeds in soil with water and loving attention rise up, grow, mature, and provide rich, wonderful gifts to be eaten and thoroughly enjoyed. Even though my own hands planted, tended, weeded, and plucked, I acknowledge that it is your power that enables seeds to grow. Without that they are simply seeds in soil.

As I took a taste of my newly made salsa and my mouth watered for more, I gave thanks to you.

Good and Gracious God,
Master Gardener,
bless you
for your
many gifts
and blessings.
As I eat
of the fruits
of my labor
and enjoy
the gifts
of your love,
may I remember
and give thanks
every time.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Dear God,

What makes your house so grace-filled? What makes it reverberate with faith, hope, and love?

Although I know churches are dedicated to your work on earth, I still wonder how it holds so much possibility and potentiality. As I get ready to step inside your home, I feel happy even before I move forward. I feel joy bubbling up, ready to be expressed. I sense your living presence although I do not fully understand it.

I am sure it is the people, the worship service, the message, music and ministry. But it is more. It is an invisible display of the sacred, an eternal trust, a divine glory, and truth that liberates.

I know the church is flawed, imperfect, and broken because it is filled with the same kind of people. Yet, your presence cleanses as we make our way, your door opens to all who gather, and your gracious hospitality welcomes us. Even before we seat ourselves in the pews we pick up hope that our lives can be refreshed, renewed, and restored. Together we sense a livingness to our faith that can move moutains.

For me I feel gratitude grow inside me. I realize I have what I have because of you. I know I am someone because you have made me that way. I believe I become more when I am in your presence, not because of my own power but because you have the power to build me up, equip me, and refashion me for your service. You place on me a cloak of love that helps me love where love is forgotten, depleted, lost, and rejected. When I am overwhelmed by that kind of love, I can't help but spill over onto others.

Today as I sat in your church, I smiled, giving thanks.

Wondrous God,
full of glory,
I am
indeed blessed
by your
many offerings.
As I
take hold,
I want
to bless you
and others
as I
attempt to live
as a person
of true faith.
Bless your church,
O God,
with power
from on high.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Dearest God,

How do we change something that is impossible to change? Not an alteration of the spirit or the emotions. Those can be changed by the will, determination, and persistence. Rather, how do we change the unchangeable? What do we rely on, dear God, for a transformation of the body and the mind?

I know how to avoid, deny, and pretend. None of these work except to build resentment and bitterness. How I wish it was possible to change what cannot be changed. However, there is no way to change the unchangeable. I need your guidance.

Lead me
to the well
of acceptance,
Gracious God.
Show me
the way.
Lead me
to your well
of understanding,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Friday, August 26, 2011

Dear God,

Do you give the same amount of love and grace to all? Do circumstances make a difference in the dose you give?

To some degree I am an outsider looking through an outside window. I see the play unfolding. I know the characters, their personalities, their challenges, and their needs. It's a sad play really but there is great opportunity for a creative, meaningful ending. Why don't they choose it?

I am always baffled by the extent to which we go to avoid the truth that sets us free. We opt to be right rather than forgiving. We elect to blame and judge rather than take your free gifts, use them to benefit ourselves and others, and create new chapters for life. Why do we do it?

As I continue to watch the current play, I pray so much for a different end than the one that looks fairly obvious. There will be no winners, only losers. Perhaps they are starving for a greater helping of the resources you give.

Pour out
your love
and grace,
O God.
Let it
bring healing,
reconciliation, and restoration.
Let every participant
open their
empty vessels
for your infilling.
Awaken their senses
to your blessing.
Help them
to sing again.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Dearest God,

I am not sure which love I appreciate most...the love of my husband as a gift from you or the love of my heavenly father. As I caught a glimpse of my husband after a few days away, I felt a big smile spread across my face. I breathed a prayer, "O Lord, thank you."

I believe there is no bottom to the well of your love. It rises up and spills over again and again. Yet, it never empties. As I experience your love in a variety of ways, it seems to me that the amount I receive would surely diminish the amount of love you have to offer. But then I realize whatever your love is, every time it is given away, more bubbles up increasing what is available to all.

Who can deny or reject what you have to offer? Once your love touches us, we are marked for life. We cannot erase it or pretend like it doesn't exist. It simply is with us. Although at times we may want to push it away or challenge it for whatever crazy reason you still stand ready, ladle in hand, to pour out your love upon us. It is that recognition that caused me to smile when I saw my husband.

Gracious God,
full of mercy
and grace,
thank you
for eyes
to see you,
for ears
to hear
your voice,
for a soul
ready to receive,
and for
a mind
quick to learn
yet another lesson.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Dearest God,

How far can faith go to quell fear? How much faith does it take to squash fear completely? And how is faith to be expressed in order to eradicate a known or unknown fear?

Each time I have to face my own demons, I am thrust back into your arms. I realize that I have once again allowed fear to seize me, to rob me of peace and trust. In such moments I have to acknowledge my lack of faith or enough faith to keep me on an even keel. When my moment of recognition comes, that is the moment I come to you, my head lowered, murmuring my own lackings. Yet, I come to you because I know that you are the source of all that is good. You are the source of faith, hope, trust, courage, and strength.

As I stand by your side, I drink in your kindly grace. As I breathe in and out, I sense I am taking in your air, your truth that sets us free, and an unlikely hope that otherwise has the power to nearly paralyze me. Such moments reinforce my faith, my belief, and my trust in you.

Today as I boarded a tin can airplane (those express things that make everyone feel like they are friendly sardines) I took my breath and realized that faith has helped me face my fear of flying. I am no longer strangulated by shocking fear. Your love has helped ease my doubts and I confess that I am yours and that whatever situation or condition I find myself in, I am safe in your arms. I pray that my strength is my response to my fear through faith. Although I cannot yet say I have no fear in flying, I sense that my fear has fallen victim to my faith allowing me to see your glory in the moment.

As I ride along above the clouds in the sunshine of your love, I give thanks.

Almighty God,
Source of Strength and Hope,
gather me in
like a mother
who calls out
to her children.
Draw me close
to you
so that
I may sense
your gracious
living presence.
Then leave me
with heartfelt praise
on my lips.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Dearest God,

While I wrote my letter to you a single faded yellow leaf fell from the pin oak tree outside my window. It's early for falling leaves. I wonder what caused it to die and let go.

I am somewhat familiar with the life cycle of a tree. I'm less able to fully understand the human life cycle. Yes, I know about conception, birth, and death. It's what's in between that I have difficulty understanding.

Like the tree I know we must connect ourselves to the sources of life. Without the link, we too wither and die. But what are all the sources of life? Is faith one of those? Courage? Love? Are all these necessary in order to truly live?

For myself faith is the key bond to life. It seems everything I think, do, and experience circles back to faith in one way or another. Is there more? Am I missing something? Can I live better or more fruitfully by aligning myself to something else?

More than anything I do not want to prematurely die on the vine! I want to live my days exactly as you want me to. I want to fulfill your design for my life, make my contribution to the world, and spread love where I can. Where do I stand on all these, Lord?

Guide me
to pools
of living water,
Source of All Life.
Every day
show me
the way
to your
great plan.
Illumine the path
so that
I will
be enlightened
and persuaded
to do
your will.
When it
is time
to die
along life's path,
let me
with grace,
surrender myself
into your
eternal care,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Monday, August 22, 2011

Dear God,

Why do we pray? What is the purpose of prayer? Are you the God who waits for human voices to tell you what to do? Do you stand idly by waiting for instructions?

Or is prayer something different? Is prayer about our own faithfulness, a statement of who we are and how we live our lives? Are prayers evidence that we believe? A sign that we care?

How does prayer make a difference and who initiates prayer in us? How do we live our part of the praying relationship?

As I prayed before rising this morning, the reason for prayer came to me. What do I expect you to do, I thought to myself. Indeed, what do I expect from you? And then, of course, that led me to think about my part in the equation. What do I expect from myself? Or even more, what do you expect from me?

My usual expectation is that those I pray for will experience your living presence. That is what is behind every prayer I pray. I guess I expect you to help others sense your loving presence. I do not expect you to heal, renew, reconcile, or restore everyone. I believe we participate in some of that ourselves with your help.

As I continue
to pray,
lead me,
Merciful God;
teach me
to do
my part
in prayer.
Help me become
a living witness
to your
living presence,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Dearest God,

How can we absorb a holy word and keep it with us? How do we open ourselves to your message allowing it to grab hold of our inner sanctum and make a difference in our lives?

As Sophie and I worshipped together, I wondered how to surrender our souls to your living word so that we could work with you to let it take root and grow inside us. Sophie is 10 years old. She has a lifetime ahead of her. How can a tender root begin to lean toward you?

Must we be hungry and thirsty for you in order to take in all that is presented to us? Or do we gain something simply by osmosis? Because my main goal in life is to be faithful, how do I prepare and open myself to more of you?

I want to be a sponge that soaks up what I learn and experience from you. I want to draw living water from your sacred well, eat of the fruits of your garden, and learn divine principles for living. How can I do that effectively if I do not know the full extent of your plan for human interaction?

I am forever
your student
wanting to
learn lessons
for daily living.
But more
than that,
I want
to be all
that you
want me
to be.
I want
what you want
for me.
Teach me, Lord,
teach me,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, August 20, 2011

My dearest God,

"What a difference a day makes, 24 little hours..." I remember that song. A day makes a difference especially in the life of one who has lived well.

I spent time with Sheila as she shared bits and pieces of her mother's life. For ninety one years Isabel was a carrier of mercy and grace. I listened and took notes to prepare for her memorial service, the reason for my visit home.

As I took in all the ways Isabel had been faithful to care for others, I thought of the number of lives she had touched, inspired, helped, and loved. Whether feeding tornado victims, caring for youth at 4H, singing with The Crescendos, aiding sick patients, encouraging weary medical personnel, leading girl scouts or the PTA, guiding youth as a church leader, or simply turning a negative into a positive, I was amazed at the ways she has been faithful.

Show us
the difference
we can make,
O Lord;
give us determination
to do
our part.
Forgive us
when we fail.
Nudge us again,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Friday, August 19, 2011

Dearest God,

Her surprise spread across her face as she descended the steps at school and into the hallway. Ten year old Sophie smiled from one ear to the other as she walked into my arms. I was the surprise visitor, not Justin Bieber.

I loved surprising Sophie with my unexpected visit to Indiana. It was such fun going out for lunch with her and her mother. Every little bit she would lean her head over to my shoulder or just look at me and smile.

Am I that appreciative when you open your arms to me? Do I show my amazement when your living presence appears? Do I smile naturally realizing what a gift it is to see you?

On my renewal journey you taught me to anticipate your presence. You guided me toward insight, revelation, and your wondrous glory. Every time I was surprised, amazed, astonished. I could hardly believe my eyes.

Today Sophie reminded me to live hopefully, to enjoy the blessings that appear, and to give witness to my wonderment.

Eternal God,
Source of Great Joy,
my heart
is thankful
for reminders
and moments
of grace.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Dearest God,

I rise into the sky on my way to conduct a memorial service. Looking out upon the misty fog and then onto the bright sunshine, blue sky, and puffy white clouds, I think of you, the work of your creation, and your eternal landscape of beauty. My faith tells me that all of this is your work.

When I look upward and see the sky, moon, stars, and sun, I see only from the perspective of the ground. But when I move upward in an airplane and look out, I see even more and I am filled with wonder.

However, it is when I look down and catch a glimpse of the earth that I see human life, teeny cars and houses, busy freeways and businesses, daily life. I realize without your hand at work there would be nothing, no movement, no human creatures, no trees, flowers, and bodies of water. All would be still, without life. But this is not your desire.

And so I am left with praise and thanksgiving whether I am riding high in the sky or low upon the earth, I witness your living presence and I am glad.

Mighty and Powerful God,
you offer
so much beauty
to your creation.
You give us
so much
which creates
within us
the sense
of joy
and wonderment.
We are filled
with grateful gratitude.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Dear God,

How do you fill your people with such great talent? How do you also supply them with passion for what it is you want them to do? How do you do it?

Tonight although I was still very weary I accompanied my husband to an organ concert at the Portland Merrill Auditorium. What I saw and heard blew me away. The organist used no sheet music. Rather he played songs by heart, improvisations using all the ranks of the incredible Kotzschmar organ. As he wove "O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing" with "Amazing Grace", I wondered how it was you planted seeds of creation within him.

As I consider human living, I marvel in your works, the way you fashion us with unique gifts, and then place within us the joy of using those gifts. Although I do not fully understand your ways, I greatly appreciate the work of your hands.

Master Potter,
Great Creator,
how beautiful
is your handiwork.
I revel
in your creativity,
always surprised
by your
infinite possibilities.

Gratefully yours, Andrea

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Dear God,

There are some days when I have to solely rely on you. When I am laid low by heat and medical problems, my body is so weak and weary that I cannot do anything but sleep and rest. I have to lie in my bed giving thanks to you that I am patient, content, and non anxious. What else can I do?

I realize there are many things about which I can do nothing. Personally I have to retreat from my usual tasks to recover from heat assaults on my body. I cannot alter my situation. In order to be comfortable with my condition I have to remain beside you knowing you will comfort me. You will bring me peace and hope.

As I lay at your feet giving thanks for your many gifts, I realize every day is a day to rely on you regardless of the environment, challenges, or difficulties that come. Please forgive me when I forget.

Gracious and Compassionate God,
your mercies
are never ending.
Even when
I fail
to remember,
your mercy
finds me anyway.
Thank you,
thank you,
Loving God.

Love, Andrea

Monday, August 15, 2011

Dear God,

A night in eternity, that's how I spent part of my evening last night. As part of the festival choir, we sang songs of faith with talented musicians, a skilled conductor, and marvelous instrumentalists. Not only did we sing beautiful music, we proclaimed in glorious fashion the mighty power of your name, the mystical wonders of your grace, and the radiant warmth of your love. It wasn't that we sang because we just loved to sing but rather we sang because it gave us a rich opportunity to make witness to what we believe. We wanted to make real your living presence in the world today.

Although I grew weak and weary because of the growing temperature and humidity in the room, I had the sense that my spirit was being emboldened to sing. I prayed for strength to stand, to sing your praise, to lift my voice with the others, and to offer my best to you. I was not disappointed.

The sheer joy that came from singing music written by inspired, spirited composers was like none other. As we made ourselves available for your purpose, I truly believe the angels and saints sang with us making our choir and those who gathered reach higher and deeper into eternity.

Source of Great Joy,
there are not
enough notes,
sounds, chords,
melodies, and
harmonies to
truly sing out
your praise.
Receive, I pray,
into your heart
what was lodged
in the heart
of each one
of us
who offered
our devotion
and love
to you.

Love always, Andrea

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Dearest God,

"Give me Jesus; you may have all the rest." The soloist sang. "Give me Jesus; you may have all the rest."

I was struck by the words of faith. Give me Jesus; you may have all the rest. Oh, to have faith enough to say nothing else is more valuable than Jesus and faith. Oh, to be willing to give everything else away for the one thing that matters most. You may have all the rest; just give me Jesus.

One of the reasons I love to sing sacred music is it challenges my faith, my attitudes and beliefs, my commitment and loyalty, and my practice of Christian values, service, and mission. Do I believe what I am singing? Do I practice all my Christian values all day long, day after day? Do I live for Jesus? Do I take my faith into the world making changes first in myself to be more loving, giving, and caring and secondly be completely open to all those around me allowing myself to be used for your purposes? Am I worthy to receive Jesus by giving away all else?

I have
so much
to learn,
dear God.
I do not want
to be selfish,
self-centered,
and interested
only in
what I possess
or want
to do
or be.
Teach me,
Great Teacher,
to want only
what you want
from me.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Dear God,

How does love grow? Is there some mechanism in the human mind and/or soul that distributes a substance causing the human heart to swell with love? How does love grow?

As I caught a glimpse of my husband walking toward me from the airport terminal, I felt my love grow for him. Gone for just 12 days I had missed him. When he put down his luggage and we walked into each other's arms, I felt our love grow together.

As we continue living your miracle in our lives, I realize that your own love filled the cracks in our love when it was shaken to its core. It was your love that gave us a second chance. It was your love that redistributed our needs allowing each of us to fill the other with love that has its source in eternity. It was your love that gave witness to a new vision in us and an ability to surrender the hurts of the past. It was and is your love that gives impetus for new growth daily. As I see tender new shoots, I give thanks acknowleging your powerful love at work.

Who can deny
your influencing power,
Gracious Transforming God?
As my husband
and I
pause to listen
to you,
our ability
to dwell
in your love increases,
our faith blossoms,
and our commitment
to you
and one another grows.
Today I
am full
of love
for you
and my husband.
Thank you
for love
that heals,
restores, and renews.

Love, Andrea

Friday, August 12, 2011

Dearest God,

When you taught your disciples to pray, did you know that billions would pray that prayer? Did you know that believers would sing it, artists would paint the scene, and dancers would move to it? Did you know?

This morning I received an email with a link to a musical performance by Andrea Bocelli and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing, The Lord's Prayer. As the harpist played the first chords, tears welled in my eyes as I listened to the choir sing the first words, "Our father..."

Did you know we would sing your prayer? Did you know our hearts would tug, our souls would empty themselves of debris, our minds would discard our hatred as we sang? Did you know the profound influence your prayer would have on us? Did you know that faith would be birthed by your beloved words? Did you know our hearts would be converted? Did you know peace would come if only for a moment, an hour, a day? Did you know as we lived our faith led by your words, you would change tiny corners of the earth?

As I listened I felt as if I were there with you, listening from the kitchen hearing your words of loving grace to ordinary men. I wept realizing how little I live my faith every moment of every day. Oh, if only my heart were permanently yours; if only I believed faith was more important than my daily busyness, my distractions, wants and desires. Oh, if only I gave my heart more to you than the little gods around me. Oh, how much the world could be so different, if only.

Your words, your prayer so beautifully sung, challenged me once again to reconsider my priorities, my petty thoughts, and my attitudes and beliefs. I was drawn low to your knees asking for your help to build my life of faith from your words. After all, what is life if it does not emanate from something more valuable than anything else I give myself to?

Heavenly Father,
Great and Loving Parent,
hallowed be
your name indeed.
What love
you must
have felt
for your followers
as you shared
your prayer
of faith
with them.
How much trust
you must
have put
into them.
As I
sang along
this morning,
I recognized
the sound
of voices
who have
sung it
throughout the ages
and I
was reminded
to reconsider
my life's
daily living,
my commitments,
and loyalties.
Keep me close
to you,
Great Redeemer;
lay me low,
lift me high,
stretch me out
on a plateau
but keep me close
to you,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Dear God,

What is the power of music? What makes a note, a tune, a melody, a crescendo or decrescendo a powerful instrument of influence?

Our choir met with our guest conductor tonight. Although I was weary from a restless night and long day, I was drawn to move by the power of your spirit. For I saw Christ in the eyes of Tom Matrone. As he lifted his hands to guide us, I felt as if Jesus himself were moving us. Our voices took on a higher countenance as we sought to flesh out in beauty the songs we were singing to your glory.

As I hummed one of the songs on the way home, I realized that your presence had been heavy in the room. I watched our beloved music director as we sang. Her face was flushed with the joy of your spirit. She knew you were present just as we singers knew we were singing for you.

Great Master,
let us sing
your praise forever.
Let your
glory shine
as we
lift our voices.
Teach us
to move
with your spirit,
to sing
when you
ask us
to sing.
Let our hearts
naturally emote
as we
allow ourselves
to be moved.

With thanksgiving, Andrea

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Dear God,

My sister failed high school art. She was told she was not an artist and had no skills. Yet today she creates beautiful quilts, jackets, purses, aprons, and anything that fabric can be used to make. She has a sewing room with piles and piles of fabric. She is very much an artist!

Yesterday I bought some nautical fabric. What once was a bolt of cloth is now a pillow, a happy pillow resting on my couch.

I love the art of creation. I love taking a few bits of nothing and making it into something to keep, admire, or use. I love the creating process.

Oftentimes I have wondered what it is like for you to create. Whether an ongoing cosmos with its newly birthed light and pathways into eternity or a miraculous new human life, I wonder what happens to the divine when something of yourself is seeded into the newness of your creation. What do you hope for, expect, or anticipate?

Somewhere along the way you stirred a creative spirit in my sister who lived years believing she had no creative bone in her body. But still you changed her revitalizing her for creation.

As I awaken to a new day every morning, I realize you are already creating...faith, joy, love, and beauty.

Gracious and Good God,
thank you
for all
of creation.
Thank you
for possibility,
for ideas,
and helps
to create.
Thank you
for allowing us
to partner
with you
in creation.
Most Glorious God,
thank you,
thank you.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Dear God,

When I was a child in school for the first time, I was told to color in the lines. When I did a good job of keeping all my reds, yellows, blues, greens, and purples inside the thick black lines, I got a gold star at the top of my coloring page. When I failed I didn't.

I was a dutiful student believing that a beautiful page was one colored well within the lines. What I learned much later in life was this: When you draw in the lines and never cross over, you simply have a picture of colors inside lines. On the other hand, when you allow your hand to drift, to dance on the page, you have just that a dance, a colorful dance with no ending.

During my retreat I invited the women to dance on the page. I gave them sheets of paper with a spiritual exercise, questions, and instructions. At the bottom of the page I invited them to let the colors draw them and then use them to dance with your living spirit. One woman told me she loved the dance. It was liberating, she told me.

As I let myself live outside the lines, I find I am happier, more free and creative. When I give myself permission to move beyond the perimeters set up for me, I find an exciting world alive with possibility.

Masterful Creator,
thank you
for color,
for the cosmos
that has
no seams,
no dark lines
that cannot
be crossed.
Thank you
for allowing me
to dance
with color.

Love, Andrea

Monday, August 8, 2011

Dear God,

I invited the retreatants to write a psalm, a life story, an experience of faith, a poem telling the world of the reality of God according to them. As they allowed themselves to be caught up in the rhythm of the divine, they began to imagine what they would write.

I simply danced, telling my story through my hands, feet, and heart. I moved at the water's edge listening to the tune of your spirit. I hummed an unknown melody as I moved, swayed, twirled, bowed, and turned.

I realized more and more how important it is to tell our story. And what I found out is this: My story is often a universal story of hope. It's not really my story, nor theirs; it is really a retelling of an old, old story written at the beginning of time.

What a privilege,
a real privilege
to tell
your story
through our own
life experience,
Everlasting God.
I revel
in the joy
of your grace
that allows us
to carry
the story
with us
wherever we go,
in whatever state
we find ourselves.
How rich
and beautiful
it is
to be entrusted
with so priceless
a jewel.
Let your story
unfold in us,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Dearest God,

I love the opportunity to witness your transforming power in the lives of those around me. I love to gaze upon their surprise discoveries, their unexpected insights, and their wonderment of the power of your grace and love.

Four women climbed aboard a spiritual adventure with me. They came because they sought a fresh experience of your spirit. They left their homes and flew to Maine for five days. They chose to participate because their faith is vital to their whole being and they wanted a closer walk with you.

Today I had the privilege of watching them face to face. As a member of the choir I sat in the choir loft. The ladies sat in the second pew. While they worshipped you, I observed them praying, singing, listening, misting, and smiling. I beheld them as they stepped closer and closer to eternity. In their quiet pilgrimage I peered into heaven as each one found what they were looking for.

Gracious and Wonderful God,
all glory
is due you!
Who can offer
so much?
No one.
Thank you
for revealing yourself
to hungry
and waiting souls.
You are
so full
of love
and so willing
to share it
with your children.
Thank you,
thank you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Dear God,

A walk through Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge reminded me of my need to listen to nature speak. So often, Lord, I think of me, my perspective, my desire for change, my outlook on things. I imagine my vision, sometimes without taking into account the elements around me. Please forgive me.

As I followed the guided path, I read the brochure describing the process of the creation of salt marshes learning that every element is vital to the whole…the fresh water, salt water, the grasses, a whole fragile ecosystem depending on all the elements. As I walked and listened, I realized that humans are the greatest danger to creation. We have the power to destroy, I heard you say. It was then I realized my plan for the woods behind our home did not take into account the ecosystem present. I didn’t even think about the quiet hidden worlds my plan could have destroyed. I said it aloud, “I am so sorry. I didn’t know. I just didn’t know.”

Some days I destroy without realizing it. On other days I only think of my ideas and plans. I fail to think of the wider scope and I destroy. As I listened, really listened to the voice present at the wildlife refuge, I acknowledged the need to listen to my own woods, to investigate the resources and the life both visible and invisible. I need to be a responsible steward for the creation around me, your wondrous creation.

How grateful
I am,
O Lord,
to have
an ear
that hears you.
I confess
I do not
always listen.
And when
I do not,
I miss
the message
you intend
to give.
Reshape me,
O God,
for your purpose,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Friday, August 5, 2011

Dear God,

Searching for signs of the divine caused me to look hard for your living presence. Four women joined me on retreat for five days. Today we took the ferry to Peak's Island and while there we biked the five miles around the island. Our assignment was to look and listen for you.

As we pedaled up hills and down, we gazed at the amazing ocean scenes, the craggy rocks, a meandering sailboat or two, and sea gulls and dark birds seemingly asleep quietly riding the waves. But what stopped us were the stone formations. Rocks, flat, big, round, and small had been piled up forming cairns. As we stood silently studying the unique, beautifully balanced stone structures, we could not help but sense your presence. Although we had no idea who made them and why or what meaning was held by their creator/creators, we still were drawn to you.

For me the stone art forms were altars made to god or God. Stones that rose up to heaven with perfect balance resistant to falling even as the ocean breezes blew. Each structure with its many stones seemed to speak of holy ground. As I stood on the paved road holding onto my bike I prayed feeling the need as I pondered the value of signs of the sacred although maybe never intended by their creator/creators. I stood silently in awe of the majesty of the cosmos and the infinite number of objects that bespeak the glorious goodness of eternity.

Great and Wondrous God,
how good
you are
to point us
in the direction
of eternity.
Thank you
for signs
and wonders
that cause us
to pause,
reflect, and consider
your living presence.
Such unexpected gifts
bless us immeasurably.
May our
every blessing
bless you
right back.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Dear God,

I saw the people drive in to the green grassy parking lot. And I watched them walk up the old stone steps into the century old church. I thought they might be gathering for a wedding or a meeting of some sort. Later I found out they had gathered to pray for the priest's daughter who is suffering with a brain aneurysm.

There's something mystical about people gathering to pray. The fact that people would get into their cars in the middle of the day, drive to church, walk the long walk from the parking lot, and then spend 30 or 40 minutes in prayer is amazing to me. I was at the church with spiritual retreatants who had come to Maine, to my home, yearning for a spiritual experience that only you could give. We were by the stone wall at the summer chapel overlooking the ocean as each of us were grappling with a spiritual exercise intended to draw us nearer to you. Observing people who were drawn to pray was a spiritual experience in itself.

I find that you provide holy times when we least expect it. If we are expectant, thirsty, and longing for more of you we will discover you in unexpected and beautiful ways. Today we found so many examples of your living presence.

Open our hearts
to you,
Great and Wondrous God,
keep us
longing for more.
Teach us
to be open,
ready, desirous,
and prepared
to take
the path
of faith.
Motion for us
and make
our feet
move forward,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Dearest God,

We went at dusk to the ocean. A few stragglers sat in chairs talking and watching the skies change in color. We were there to dance for you.

As I prayerfully slipped on my long-flowing black skirt, I sensed your call to dance. As I approached the water there was no delay. "I've been waiting." You said to me. And I had not shown up.

As I listened I realized I had left you more than a year ago waiting by the shore. My dance partner waited for me and I had failed to come. Yet, you reached out your hand, took mine in yours, and we danced at the water's edge.

The music came easily, first a song and then a tune I had never heard. I hummed along, moving comfortably recognizing the fluidity of our relationship expressed in movement. My whole being was content. I felt such serenity, a combination of the dance, the water, the changing skies, and the love we share. By the time we said goodnight, I felt at one with you. I slowly and quietly made my way back to the chair. My friend and I spoke.

Minutes later a woman came up to me. "That was so beautiful, so lovely." She told me. "What was it?" I responded, "My love offering to God expressing my gratitude."

As I give myself more and more to you, the more my faith builds. And when I follow your lead, you give me greater opportunities to share your love in the world. What blessings always follow!

Great Dance Partner,
thank you
for waiting.
Thank you
for inviting me,
remembering our
former dances.
Thank you
for love
that never ends.
Thank you
for taking
my hand
and leading me.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Dear God,

What shapes our insides, O Lord? What forces are at work within us? What causes us to give away part of ourselves in order to look, talk, or sound like someone else?

How do we give life to your design for us? How do we accept the person you created each of us to be? How do we step inside the body prepared, the mind preserved, and the soul open and ready for expression? How do we acknowledge the beauty that is our own selves if for no other reason than to believe that we have been made in your image?

As I observe life around me, I wonder how much better life would be for all if we each simply received the gifts you have given us and lived into them. I wonder what it would look like if we simply were who we are rather than who we wished we were. Perhaps then we would not focus on what we were missing or who has what we wanted. Perchance there would be no jealousy, no coveting behaviors that rob us of what little we believe ourselves to be. Maybe we would simply be images of you.

Help us,
in our frailties
and flaws,
O God,
to realize
the gifts
we have
been given.
Teach us gratitude,
I pray,
and give
us courage
to shape
and mould
our person
in your image.
Let our
inner beauty
radiate your light
and love.

Forever yours, Andrea

Monday, August 1, 2011

Dear God,

I am content. For years I strived for something more than contentment. I wanted more, not material goods, but rather more of life. Although I was never fully sure of what that meant, I just had a restless gut that reminded me daily of what I was missing.

I remember one of your greatest gifts to me was the ability to select the characteristics of my life. As the broken pieces in my being surfaced here and there, you enabled me to let them go or take hold of as many as I wanted making pottery changes, you know, smoothing them out or refashioning them. One by one I made my choices, put them in my grocery cart, discovered at the checkout lane that they were free, and then went home to inculcate them into my person.

What I learned from that exercise is that you have given us the opportunity to shape ourselves for daily living. You have given us a power, a divine power to surrender that which drags us and others down. You have given us a will to live, to become, to chart a course different than any other. You have given us a strength, an electrical charge that can renew or restore our lifegiving energy. You have given us the ability to love and be loved.

Today as I sit here writing you, looking out my kitchen window at a garden in the making, still full of weeds and debris, I know that it is on its way to becoming, just like me, and I am content.

Generous God,
let me sing
a love song
of joy
to you.
Let me
give you
my prayers
of gratitude.
Let me become
more like you,
an image
of sweet contentment.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Dearest God,

My friend shared her testimony of faith today. What drew me to her initially was her smile, her kindness, and her creative, free-flowing spirit. But today I realized that the real connection is faith.

As I listened to her speak, I had a profound sense of your living presence in and among us. I could envision the ways your spirit breeze blew upon her. I knew that the joy I felt was the emotion of gratitude that comes when a person recognizes the touch of your hand and then with open palms generously offers it to others.

Who else is so lavish with such grace? No one. Who else can empower the human soul after great loss? No one. Who else can cause the heart to open again to human love? Only you, Great God, only you.

As I observed Nancy, I gave thanks not only for her and her expression of faith and thanksgiving but also for all those throughout the ages who have lived out their faith giving it to those around them as the greatest gift they could offer another.

Loving God,
let our lips
sing your praise.
Make our feet
dancing feet
that celebrates
a life
with you,
I pray.

Love, Andrea