Monday, April 2, 2012

Dear God,

Early this morning I sat by the third story window at the retreat center and looked out.  The sky was pitch black.  The beautiful trees, fields, and flowers were lost from my sight.  However, there were 13 small glowing lights that lined the walkway. I thought how beautiful the light was in the darkness.  Soon I saw other lights off in the distance, cars headed for work down the country road.  Once again I realized the value of the light.

I've been in a myriad of dark places in my life.  Many times I tarried there way too long.  Submerged in darkness, I wondered if I would spend an eternity there.  But then a tiny light would shine, through a spoken prayer, an insight, a person bearing hope, a kind word, or a sudden shift in perspective.  Things changed.  The darkness was not as dark.  I was not as hopeless.  I realized the light was a sign of your living presence, one that touched my insides, warming my heart, stirring my soul, and challenging me to reconsider my fragile faith, my muddled thinking, and my weak spirit.

I have always known the light was your light.  Even if my faith was hanging by a thread, I knew it was you.. What is light if not a display of hopefulness, possibility, and helpful guidance?  Each time I felt your love, your grace reaching out to me.  Despite my condition I grabbed hold and held on for dear life.  Eventually, I was called to move on.

Almighty and Compassionate God,
thank you
for your patience
and tender care.
Thank you
for jolts
to my faith
and nudges
to my spirit.
Thank you
for light
that makes
a dramatic difference.

Love, Andrea