Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Dear God,

On an island one mile wide and 14 miles long we experienced a dark, noisy storm.  Lightning flashed again and again as loud thunder rolled.  It felt eerie and a little frightening.  Yet, inside we watched a movie that focused on light, a radiant beam where a young woman sought the light, mysterious lanterns that lit up the night skies every year on her birthday.  The discussion that followed the movie brought more light to the four of us who for 24 years have sought the light together.

I am truly blessed by my colleagues, my spiritual friends who with me committed to a life-long search for the brightness of faith.  As we shared together both the light we have witnessed and the darkness we have long walked, we recognized once again the movement of your spirit light.  You have shined upon us and each of us in differing times have walked lonely roads in search of the hope your light brings.  We all agreed we have been exceedingly blessed to be aware of the light when it shines and even when it seems a vague darkened corner, we know the light is present although we might not see it.  What an amazing journey we have had together, pilgrims of the light, the light of God, the light of your son.

Holy God,
Giver of Glorious Light,
we bow
to you
in celebration
and gratitude.
Thank you,
thank you,
Most Blessed One,
for the
many gifts
of light
you have given.
We are humbled
and grateful.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 28, 2012

Dearest God,

Being known and loved with all my gifts, my flaws, and sins past and present is perhaps life's best gift.  Today I welcomed three friends, my covenant group who has walked life's journey with me for nearly twenty five years.  They have come to share in retreat for a week.

As I greeted each one the light, your light they have shined on me during our wondrous time together.  As any of us lay in darkness, we have shared our light.  We have called one another to the light, to the bright, glorious light of faith.

For the next few days we will talk about the radiance that comes when we know you.  We will offer stories of light when you pointed us, directed us, and guided us to you.  But we will also share the sore dark places where we still find ourselves hurting.  Over the course of our time together we will gather at your feet and look up.

Merciful God,
you are
the light
of the world.
Thank you
for friends
of faith
who always
call me
to walk closer
with you.
I am grateful
for all
the times
they took me
to you.
I thank you
for their light.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Dear God,

Hard times call for an ever-deepening trust in you.  As I fell victim once again to heat, I had to remember to call upon you to help me be patient, to breathe more deeply in your loving grace, and to allow you to minister to my weary soul.  What I find is you are always willing to come closer, to touch and inspire my life, and to provide me with generous tender care.

I am grateful.

You are God;
there is
no one
like you.
Thank you
for your
living presence
that washes
over me
like a
steady rainfall
on dry
and thirsty soil.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Dear God,

Learning to take what we get and do something better with it is something you have spoken about with me before.  When I want things to be some other way, you remind me how good it is to trust you to help me turn something around.

I can think of numerous times when I was not satisfied with something in my life.  When I whined and complained, you listened but in the end you had the final word.  Although I was not always happy about it, you revealed a better way.  You gave me an idea, a way to redeem, and then you guided me.  When I followed your plan I was amazed how things could change.

A fence, an unsightly (okay, not so bad) fence is the latest challenge.  As I expressed my disappointment, you had me take a second look and when I did, I could see possibilities.  I began to imagine creating flower beds against the fence allowing it to become the backdrop for something beautiful.  As I let my imagination run, all kinds of ideas began to form and all because of you.

Show me
the way,
O Lord,
the way
to you.
Teach me
to go
with the flow,
to anticipate
your word
for me,
and to meet
all challenges
before me.
Guide me
to you,
Loving Father,
Holy Parent,
Good God,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 25, 2012

Dearest God,

Besides the words grace, hope, love, and faith, the next best word for me is transformation.  I love the whole idea of transformation, the change process of what is to what can be.  I love the ability to recreate, remake, reshape, and reconfigure.  I adore the belief that we are made to be changeable, to be changed, and transformed.  What it means for me personally is I am not made to be the way I am for the rest of my life.  I can change now or tomorrow or a week from now or even next year.  And the wonderful blessing is you give me the desire and power to change me.

When you make me aware of something about myself that needs alteration, I may not always be wild about the need to change.  However, when I know you are the initiator for my change, I take refuge in your merciful care.  I may have to ponder the need to be reformed but when I am assured of your desire to do something new in me, I find I am charged with hope and love that leads me to faith that will help me make the transition.  My challenge is to trust you every time.

Caring and Compassionate God,
remake me daily
in your image.
Guide me
toward every change
you want
in me.
Show me
the way,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Dear God,

It took me a long time to feel safe before I was easily able to say I'm sorry.  I know it sounds strange, even pathetic but it was how I felt.

I don't remember many conversations when I was a little girl about how important it is to say I'm sorry.  As children my parents would demand we siblings say I'm sorry to each other.  We got grounded if we didn't but I never really knew what it meant and all its implications.  Grief!

This morning I said I'm sorry.  I wanted to say it.  For the last two weeks I have battled a dramatic energy loss due to a compromised endocrine system and I have been grouchy the last three or four days because I have had a lot to do before my covenant group arrives here on retreat.  Following that I have a women's retreat to lead. At the same time I was feeling the weight of responsibility my body was not capable of doing anything for a while and then just a little each day.  So when my hubby said something or got in my way or didn't help enough I acted ugly.  But today you brought that to my awareness and I knew the moment he awakened I needed to apologize so I did.

I remember when I felt unsafe the first time.  My parents moved us to California between my junior and senior years of high school.  Moving from the bible belt to a wild coast in America in the 1960's when everything seemed to be in disarray caused me to lose my confidence, my belief in myself, and my courage.  Because our high school was huge compared to the small town school I left behind, I never felt I fit in.  Friendships were already made and no one really wanted to be my friend.  I felt lost and lonely having said goodbye to so many friends in Elwood.  The ensuing years were difficult because I was never able to overcome my feelings of loss, hopelessness, and lack of value.  I walked for nearly three decades before I finally began to tackle my own sorrow and despair.

What I learned during those painful years was the value I was to you.  You made me feel valuable.  You told me you loved me just as I was.  You constantly whispered words of encouragement to me.  You placed me in situations where I grew in faith.  You showed me my own beauty particularly after I had my breasts removed, one with cancer.  As I lived each day I could feel myself growing stronger because I trusted in you to show me the way, to lead me to green pastures where all the fertile gifts of love, mercy, compassion, and goodness awaited me all the while you lavished me in love from on high.  Although there were some giant hurdles to make, you reminded me I was not alone.  When I felt afraid, you told me I could do it and little by little as I trusted more and more, I was remade, restored, and renewed by your spirit.  When I awakened to what all you had done for me, I wept buckets of tears of gratitude.  I still do.

Generous God,
what words
of thanks
can I use
to convey
the depths
of my gratitude?
How can
I express
from the
bottom of
my heart
how I feel
for all
you have
given me?
Please forgive me
for my
lack of patience,
for my
irritating ways,
and for
my lack
of trust.
Guide me
more and more
toward you.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Dearest God,

Today the act of washing windows brought me the realization of the ways in which you wash my own soul.  I am sure with regularity you find the dusty, dirty corners of my soul in need of cleansing.  The process of bringing a bucket of your living water into the dark crevices of my soul awakens me to my own sin however small or big.  The gentle action of wiping away my smudges humbles me, bringing me to tears, causing me to remember just how much love you have for me.

The remarkable blessing teaches me how a living relationship between the divine and human are supposed to work.  As the divine you come in love to serve me, leaning down to earth to rid me of my dark spots.  In the process I realize the truth of myself, my selfish ways, my bent on sinning, and the declarations of my own will. I am brought low to my spiritual knees remembering the importance of my own faith work.  How can I ever expect your goodness to bless me if I am not willing to do my part?

Exposing me to my own blemishes keeps me in check, urging me to rise up, to willingly open the doors to my soul for your frequent visitation, and my constant need to attend to the truth of who I am and what I am about.  The questions come.  Am I living a life of faith?  Am I an example of Christ's light?  Am I trusting in the only One who alone is completely trustworthy? Am I living love into the world?

I have
so much
to learn
from you,
Merciful God.
Cleanse me,
I pray;
make your home
in me.
Let your
light shine
so that darkness
cannot hide
within me.
Help me make
your home
bright, clean,
a place
of joy
and praise.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Dearest God,

Does evil lurk within each of us?  Is every person on the face of the earth susceptible to doing heinous acts?  What triggers the demons in the human soul?

Today while reading the news I could hardly imagine a cartel leader ordering, mutilating, and murdering 48 or more persons and dumping their beheaded bodies on a Mexican roadway.  I guess that should not surprise us since with some regularity we hear the horrific things people do to one another.  But why, Lord, why?

What motivates us to hurt or harm one another?  Is there some gene, some flaw or defect that when strained reaches out to destroy?  Is it the need for self preservation?  Or something else?  What causes it, Mighty God?

When I heard this tragic news, all I knew to do was pray.  As I pray for victims and their families and perpetrators and theirs, should I pray for a world capable of this kind of evil...for each of us?

Massage our hearts,
O God;
soften them
so that
we can do
only good.
Teach us
to love first
making us incapable
of evil,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 21, 2012

Dear God,

I've discovered hope is the key element to life because hope elicits courage and courage builds strength for daily living.  During my really dark days I felt hopeless.  As much as I wanted to feel hopeful, I simply could not muster it on my own.  That's where faith entered and everything changed.

I realize there is a dramatic difference between hoping for a particular outcome and hoping for your will.  When I hope for something I want, that may be all I will get.  However, if I pray and hope for your will with regard to something I want, oftentimes I will receive more.  I will gain another life lesson. Perhaps the thing I want is not suitable for me.  It may not contribute to the betterment of my soul.  It may not be what you want for me.  You may have something better in mind for me.  When I trust your will, all of my life is better because my ability to hope increases.

Loving God,
grace always comes
when I
trust you.
My well
is filled
because I hoped
in you.
Help me
turn to you
for hope
and everything else.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Dear God,

"Great is thy faithfulness, O God my father.  There is no shadow of turning with Thee.  Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not.  As Thou has been, Thou forever wilt be. Great is thy faithfulness!  Great is thy faithfulness!  Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed, Thy hand hath provided.  Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"  It was the first song of the hymn sing at church this morning, my most favorite song in all the world. As I sat on the back row, my head leaning back on the wall, feeling symptoms of heat, I sang my faith's greatest song.  What joy, what glory to sing to you, my Comforter, Friend, and Teacher.

I've found that daily you provide opportunities to sing out faith.  Whether it is a warm feeling that rushes through  me with gratitude for a beautiful morning or an unexpected gift or an answer to prayer or something else special that finds its way to me, you give me your song to sing.  And the most extraordinary thing of all is that you make me aware that my discernment of you as the giver, is the most wonderful blessing of all.

Good and Gracious God,
giver of
so many
gifts and blessings,
I thank you
from the bottom
of my heart,
(the top too, of course)
for the
countless ways
you inspire
and touch me daily.
There is nothing,
no thing better
than a life
with you.
I am grateful!

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Dear God,

How do we stay fixed on faith as the lead motivator in our lives?  How do we see through the lens of faith and step into it as we go about our daily activities?

I want so very much to live life from faith every day.  I want every decision, every thought, and every act to be an example of a faith-filled life. I want to follow you, to be obedient, to sense your nearness when I come to a crossroads of any kind.  I want to walk with you like a little child steps into the big footprints in the sand on the beach.

When I was a young girl, I loved to step inside my father's size 13 shoes.  I remember sliding the shoes around on the floor feeling like I was such a big girl.  There was something about that that even now the memory warms my heart.  Somehow my actions as a child connect me to wanting to do the same thing with you.

Teach me
your ways,
O Lord;
show me
how to
live a life
of faith.
Every day
make it clear
what I
must do
to continue
to travel
behind you
not in front.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 18, 2012

Dear God,

Early this morning I looked out my second story bedroom window to watch a foggy mist rise above the river.  As a gentle breeze moved the fog downstream, I thought how many lovely scenes you show us daily.

I realize there is a landscape of beauty all around.  Even a huge city with all its hustling and bustling can reveal small and large wonders in the sky, on the land, and in human relationships.  Just a watching of color as people go to and from work can delight the eyes and warm the human soul.

As I listen to the early morning sounds, I hear the call of birds talking with each other.  I see squirrels running across the long backyard toward the woods.  I notice what appears to be Canadian geese mates leaving the river for quiet ground. As I breathe in the sweet scents of spring in Maine, I sense my blessings and am grateful.

Wondrous God,
you bless
from early morning
to late night.
When the
sun rises
and sets,
when the
sun gives way
to the moon
and the zillions
of stars,
and when
the new day
greets me
leaving the
old day behind,
I know
I am in
your living presence.
May my joy
bless you today.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Dear God,

This morning the sun rose in the east shining light into our bedroom, living room, dining room, and porch windows.  I know for sure it will move through the sky eventually radiating light into the other bedroom, kitchen, hall, and bathroom windows on the west side of the house.  Although this simple daily act generally goes unnoticed for the most part, it is one that reminds me of life's daily rhythm.  Because I can trust the certainty of that action, I believe I can trust you daily to be present in my life.

One of my favorite scriptures comes from Ecclesiastes 3.  Essentially it says there is a time and season for all things, time for the sun to rise and time for it to set.  That much confidence teaches me to allow my faith to rise as well and each night when I head for bed I lay it to rest knowing you are present at its rising and its setting.  There is something so wonderful about that knowledge that it causes me to appreciate all the other pieces of life  that swing back and forth in a steady movement, especially when life gets a little dicey.  

This morning as I gaze upon the light and shadows coming through the window, I sense your presence comforting and renewing me.

Thank you,
O Lord,
for sacred moments
that speak volumes
about faith
and all
its dimensions.
Thank you
for love
that never rests.
Thank you
for gratitude
that keeps life
in perspective.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Dearest God,

Learning to savor life in the simple things has been one of your greatest lessons.  How can we really appreciate the big things that come along the way unless we have taken stock of small things?

In these last few days in bed recovering from an endocrine problem, I have paused to explore the world around me in a small space.  For instance in my second floor bedroom, I have been appreciative of the window nearest my  side of the bed.  The gentle breeze, the sound of falling rain, and even the sound of neighbors walking their dogs has blessed me.  I look around the room and my eyes fall upon an 8 x 10 picture of my grandmother when she was in her late teens.  Memories rush back. I see a picture of my husband and me smiling for a church picture directory.  I love the color of the room, the delicate white voile valances and even the floor fan that keeps me cool at night.  The bedding was purchased with monies given to me by my staff at Christmastime after we bought this old house.  How I loved them for that.  I think of the horrible condition of this room before we renovated it.  I remember the restorationist helping us to reclaim the room, my husband who did a lot of the dirty work, and my friend who loves doing renovation flying out with me for four days to clean, repair, prime, and paint the room.  I think of a couple of retreatants who slept in this bed and felt like they were in the Ritz as I slept downstairs in my sleeping bag because we had 11 for the five day retreat.  There's nothing in this room that doesn't speak in some way or another of you.

Who can ask
for big things
if we
have not said
thank you
for the
small things,
O Lord?
As I ponder
my blessings,
I always remember
who brought them
to me.
As I
await healing,
health, and wholeness,
I simply breathe
thoughts of thanksgiving.
My heart
is grateful.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Dear God,

I've come to the conclusion that sometimes it is important to see life from the underbelly.  If we are always on top, how will we ever know what happens on the bottom or somewhere in between?  How will we ever appreciate what people do to rise up in faith, in hope, in courage, and in strength?  How will we understand the levels of life people move through in their journey?  How will we be able to acknowledge, support, and walk with persons who find themselves at the lowest rung trying to move from where they are to where you want them to be?

I find I learn more life lessons when I am "down under" than when I am seemingly at the top.  When I have to rely on the help of others, when I have to ask for help, when I have to confess my own inadequacies in difficult times, and when I have to accept my limitations, it is at that moment when I have to raise my face toward heaven and see myself through the lens of faith.  Am I an iron woman?  No.  Am I totally self sufficient?  No.  Am I capable of manipulating my own world to meet all my own needs?  No.  I have to get honest with myself and with you.  And reluctantly, I have to say I am grateful.  I truly believe the words of Jesus who said, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free."

As I continue to struggle with my health in a world that still does not fully understand the inner workings of the endocrine system, I have to breathe in more and more of your spirit in order to remain patient, calm, and hopeful.  In so doing I will gravitate more and more toward joy that reminds me how faith can help me attain your will for my life.

Teach me
to adopt
your ways,
O God.
Show me
the way
to true contentment.
Remind me
to live
a life
of gratitude.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 14, 2012

My dearest God,

I discovered again trusting you brings hope, peace, and strength.  Your love reveals itself when we are sick, afraid, or down and out.  As we determine whether or not to ask for help from you, you show yourself to us.  It may be a scene, a wave of comfort, a word, a scripture reading, a song, an unexpected helpful hand.or a prayer that suddenly shows us we are not alone in our troubles.  You speak warm words from the heart that soothe the weary soul.

I arose more confident yesterday after the endocrine spell days earlier when my body systems started shutting down and my energy quickly drained from my body.  As I rested, giving my body its much needed rest, I trusted you instead of worrying.  I knew it would not be an easy time and I would not be able to do anything but rest.  Although another spell occurred when I was already without energy from the first one, I soon realized that your living presence was with me.  I did not have to fear because you were with me.

One of the many life lessons you have taught me is learning to turn to you early when I am in trouble.  Why wait?  Why try other methods of coping when you are the source of solace, love, faith, healing, and joy?  Why waste time trying other ways when nothing can ease or give relief like you.

Through the years I have made mistakes thinking I was enough to get myself through hard times.  I pushed through aches and pains, disappointment, sorrow, and despair. I resisted reaching out.  I thought if I kept going, I could will myself to get better.  All I really did was push myself into deeper trouble.  In the end crushed, bruised, and broken, I fell at your feet apologizing again and again.  But like always you greeted me, the prodigal child, and you made me feel as though I was your favorite.  Who can resist that?

Comforting God,
thank you
for grace
that reminds us
who we
truly are,
children of
the Living God.
Thank you
for hope
that opens
the door
to courage,
faith, and strength.
Thank you
for love
that starts
the whole process.

Always, Andrea

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Dearest God,

Music opens the doors to heaven, to you, to eternity's hope, to faith in you and your ability to reach, touch, and inspire the human soul.  Because I was too weak and fragile to attend church, I lay down on the floor and turned on the CD entitled The Journey Home by Tim Janis.  The opening notes spread wide the doors of heaven and as I listened, my worries, doubts, and fears washed away.  I let your love blossom all around me. I trusted you, letting go of my troubles.

You are God, Most High, the one Eternal God, who cares for the most minute problem in life. You are the answer to life's question.  You are the well of joy who wants to fill every longing human soul.  You are love divine reaching down, beside, underneath, and above every human heart.  You are comfort, a refuge to the weary body, mind, and soul.  You are God; there is no other.

As I surrender to you, you enter my waiting heart who longs to trust more and more.  Every tiny bit of anxiety dissolves in your presence, Gracious God.  I realize in life and in death, you are all we need.  Those you place in our circle to love us give us so much and bless our lives.  But you, dearest God, you give us so much more.  As I walk the halls of heaven even here and in this place, I wander in love and glory knowing your closeness, trusting you to walk with me.

In you, O Lord, I have true life.  I am well.  I am whole.  I am joy.  I am faith.

The whole
of me
blesses you,
Almighty and Everlasting God;
let all
of me
praise all
of you,
Heavenly Parent.
Remove every particle
of fear
so nothing stands
between us,
Living God.
Make my life
a testimony
of faith,
of love,
of hope,
I pray
in your
Living Son, Jesus.

Love always, Andrea

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Dearest God,

How do you meet the needs of two people when the middle won't work?  How do you tenderly care for one another when a particular need is critical?  Not that either need is wrong; it is not about that.  It is simply a need that requires special care.

You have told me so many times how important it is to love as you love, to care as you care, and to reach out as you reach out.  You are our model, our example of both human and divine love.  As I read the scriptures and read between the lines, I see that you had needs too.  Sometimes you needed silence, time to be alone.  You needed to pray, to express your human devotion and concern for others.  You needed to collect your thoughts, offering up your own doubt and fear.  So often your needs were met in prayer.  You didn't need anyone else.  But when you did, when you asked for help from those closest to you, they failed you.

I am blessed with love all around me.  At times I wonder how it is I have so many blessings.  In the midst of my blessing, I wonder how to overcome, how to care for my own needs at the same time caring for the needs of those around me.  I wonder how to create an environment that fulfills the needs of all involved.

Recently when my body systems starting failing me due to heat exposure, my husband kicked in to help me.  When I called him by phone, he came right away, put in an air conditioner, and for two days, he made all my meals.  He checked on me.  He told me he missed me because I was in an upper room with a window air conditioner and he was somewhere in the rest of the house.  He tended to me, cared for my needs, and expressed his love for me.  He showed his genuine concern and I was grateful, so grateful.

The question that continually swirls in my mind is how do I care for my husband's need to be warm and my own need to be cool so that I do not fall victim to threatening symptoms?  Perhaps it seems a small question in light of the larger issues of the day; however, O God, it is a difficult one for us.

O Lord,
you know us all
so well.
You know
our needs,
our fears,
and concerns.
You know
the answer
to our questions,
our dilemmas.
I believe
with all
my heart
your love
and our faith
can help us
overcome every obstacle.
Thank you
for love
that reaches
beyond our own
human barriers
of need,
doubt, and fear.
Help us
reach for answers
that seem
far off
from us.
Show us
the way,
O God;
show us
the way,
I pray
in the name
of Jesus
whose trust
in you
found courage
and strength
for every difficulty.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 11, 2012

Dearest God,

Today I remembered again my limitations.  A subtle heat along with exhaustion from a long trip and weeks of work before leaving put me into bed all day.  Without a parathyroid and extremely sensitive to heat, I was too weak to do anything else.  On my first day "home" and laid low, I slept off and on all day.

Often I am reminded that you are the strength of my life.  When I am weak, my muscles laboring, my lungs seemingly unable to give me good, even breaths of air, and my voice raspy and cracking, my body gives in to rest for hours.  It is during such times I give thanks for my trust in you and your care for me.

Thank you,
O God,
for your
tender, loving care.
Thank you
for holding me
when I
am afraid.
Thank you
for the constancy
of faith
that upholds,
embraces,
and strengthens.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Dear God,

I've discovered there is a beautiful quietness to faith.  No fancy fanfare, no loud clanging symbols, just a simple appreciation of the extraordinary relationship between you, Glorious God, and your children.  Each day as I breathe in the air of delight, I know you are the source of my life, my joy, and my hope.  As I trust you, I engage in a life with you knowing full well your tender care.

At times when I face difficulty, I look for a great showing of your power.  I raise my eyes to the heavens expecting you to slay my demons of fear, disappointment, or hurt.  I anticipate your rescue hoping my condition will be immediately lifted.  And sometimes you do come that way but more often than not, you come in a whisper, a gentle breeze, an insight, or a sudden peace.  You do not show off your strength but rather the warmth of your love enables my weary soul to rest.

The more I look for you in the simple things of life, the more I know you, the more courage wells within me, and the more contentment I experience.  It is then I realize how full faith is and how it is strengthened as I remain at your side.

What more
could I
possibly want,
dear God?
Why would I
look for more
when everything
I need rests
in our
relationship together?
Teach me
to walk
with you,
to see
through your eyes,
to accept life
as a gift
even when
it is hard,
and to look
for little signs
of your
living presence.
Let faith
show me
the way.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Dear God,

As I look out among the rising landscape of the hills and mountains of Pennsylvania, I wonder why you painted the cosmos with so many rich colors.  Why would you paint the sky an azure blue with puffy white clouds and flours of purple, lavender, and white?  As I leaned down in the car so I could get a better perspective of the clouds, I marveled at the wonder of your beauty.

You could have made a black and white world without depth and perspective.  You could have given us a blah world in which to live but instead you blessed us with incredible artistry.  You painted a creation with unbelievable texture and tinge.  I can only surmise that you created from love to provide the best for the children that would walk in your world.

As I discover anew the wonder of your love, I can only breathe my prayers of thanksgiving.

Thank you,
O God,
for the blessing
of your creation.
Thank you
for giving us
the best.
Make us worthy
of your love
so that
we may express
the depth
of our appreciation.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Dear God,

I am astonished, astounded, and blown away by your healing and mending power!  I have personally witnessed a breach, a widened gap brought back together, two sides united where now there is one.  I have seen your work, experienced your grace, and felt your incredible compassionate love.

My husband and I attended my grandson's ballgame. My grandson, the ballplayer, gave me his favorite necklace to wear while he played ball.  During the game as I sat by my daughter, hugged my granddaughter, and teased my son-in-law, I felt your miraculous power.  Who else has the power to heal, to restore human relationships after years of brokenness?

As I lay reading in my granddaughter's bed, I was overwhelmed with your love.  Who can provide a more beautiful gift than the coming together of a family torn and shattered?  Only you, Lord, only you.

Miracle God,
thank you,
a thousand times,
thank you.
You constantly
amaze me
with your
tender loving care.
You remind me
every day
is a call
to change,
to be transformed
by love.
My heart
is full
of gratitude.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 7, 2012

Dear God,

You implored me to pray for a stranger, a complete stranger.  I didn't know whether the person was a man or woman, boy or girl.  I didn't know the age or background.  You just urged me to pray and I did.  I felt compelled to pray for the person and their family.

My friend needed a multiple organ transplant and this person died and donated their organs.  My friend was a match.  Although I prayed for her, I felt more compelled to pray for the stranger and their grieving family.  What pain they must have felt, what sorrow; yet, they chose to give a second chance at life to others when they said yes to organ donation.

You have a wonderful way of connecting people together, O Lord.  When or how would I have known to pray for this stranger and their family?  Outside of the prayers that I pray for the whole world's people, I would never have specifically prayed for this family.  Yet, you invited me into their lives by inviting me to pray.  I am so grateful!

Thank you,
O God,
for your
many gifts.
Thank you
for reminding us
to be attentive
to your call.
Thank you
for prayer
that links us
to others.
Thank you
for your
living presence.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Dear God,

A tiny brown bird hopped along my bedroom window sill.  She looked from side to side, pecked the glass, and then hopped up trying to fly inside. As I lay in bed, I watched her try and try again.  Finally I quietly stepped over to the window and told her it was no use. She flew away.

I believe that's what you do when we keep trying to do something that will harm us.  I think you allow us to explore but at some point you tell us the activity, the adventure will hurt us.  At that moment we either decide to wave you off and continue doing whatever gives us pleasure or we recognize the potential problem and we turn away.

If only life was that simple!  If only we would take your cues when we are moving toward trouble!  I truly believe you not only care for us but you also work with each one of us in our daily lives.  We can stop, look, and listen anytime because you do speak to us.  You direct and help us when we are attentive to your many acts of kindness.  No one cares for us like you!

Loving God,
Tender of Souls,
thank you
for your
guiding hand
in our lives.
Thank you
for willing us
to follow you.
Teach us
to pay attention
and to recognize
danger signals
when they appear.
Make us yours,
Lover of Our Souls.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 4, 2012

Dear God,

What can I say about you that I have not already said?  You are God; there is none like you.

As I began my early morning prayer, I asked you to help me pray differently. I did not want my prayers to become dull, stagnant, and predictable.  I did not want any of them to become a boring accommodation. 

As I listened to you, you showed me life through your lens.  You revealed how prayer is not a bunch of words laid at your feet but rather part of a living conversation between two interested parties.  You whispered to me how prayer is a living link to others and to you.  You told me prayer is dynamic, never static because one word uttered to you is always a living word intended to awaken me to my part of our relationship, to do what you want me to do to aid others, and to change myself as I follow your word.

Teach me
to pray,
O Lord,
to touch base
with you
and to listen
for your word
to me.
Remind me
as I
pray for others,
you are praying
for me.
Keep me
on my knees
so I
can grow
and learn.
Teach me
to care
by praying
for my sisters
and brothers
around the world
and at home.
Remind me
again and again
through prayer
that you are God;
there is none
like you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Dear God,

In all things.  In all things you want us to trust you.  In all things.

You have persuaded me to believe in all things you want us to trust you, to bring our very lives to you again and again no matter the situation or condition.  You have shown me the benefits of trusting you in all things, in our decision making, our building of character, our questions, fears, concerns, and dilemmas.  You want us to trust you in all things because trust leads to faith and faith leads to hope and hope leads to courage and courage leads to trust.

I can remember countless times you sought me out and called me to trust you.  In my fragile condition, you told me if I trusted you, you would lead me to calm waters and you did.  Each time when I was afraid I took your hand not knowing where I would wind up except in your arms.  As I trusted you more and more, I began to trust myself more and others too.  You revealed how trust in you, in me, and others can renew, reshape, and restore the human soul.

Miracle God,
for the price
of trust,
you give peace.
You reach out,
touch, and inspire.
You help
and guide us
to living water,
and heavenly manna.
As we
trust you,
fear dissipates,
hope returns,
and courage emerges.
Who can offer more?

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Dear God,

Nearly twenty five years ago you called me to a covenant group who would share love and support, stretch my mind and devotion of Christ, and hold my feet to the fire of change and transformation for the sake of faith.  Every Wednesday we have gathered at the monastery, worshiped with the sisters, practiced spiritual direction, prayed, offered devotion and silence, and wandered through eternity awaiting discovery and revelation.  Every Wednesday.

I can't really say which part has been more meaningful, the gathering of my spiritual friends, practicing faith with the sisters, being present with Christ at the monastery (holy ground for us), or the discipline of following your invitation.  In any case today I want to thank you for that original call at the seminary when we were getting close to graduation.

Although I have been blessed with family, friends, church, faith, and love, there has been no small group of people who have done more to lead me to transform myself or to knock on your door on my behalf than Bill, Susan, and Jan.  They are remarkable people because they believe you have a plan for our lives and faith is the means by which to arrive at the spiritual sites along life's journey.  When they ask me or I ask them, "So, where is Christ in your life right now?", we get ready for the jaunt of a lifetime.  We direct one another to you where you do your incredible work of faith.  Each week I marvel at the ways in which you touch and inspire our lives revealing to us the sacred mysteries.

As I count my blessings, I regard my covenant group as one of my greatest blessings!

Holy God,
thank you
for the gift
of faith,
that dynamic relationship
that calls us
to a
closer walk
with you.
Thank you
for spiritual friends
whose love
for you
and for me
is deep
and abiding.
Thank you
for moving us
in our
personal walks
of faith,
for not
being satisfied
with a
Sunday faith only.
Thank you
for rich gifts
that remind us
of life's
greatest value.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Dearest God,

How much you open yourself to our spirit!  How much you want to be known by us!  How much you bless us when we sit in your living presence!

Every time, yes every time, I step onto the grounds of the monastery, I am home.  I am washed over by loving grace.  I am in awe, in love, full of hope and gratitude.  As the music begins and we sing the opening lines, "Lord, open my mouth, and my heart will declare your praise," I literally breathe in your wonder and glory.  I sense eternity's presence and I give myself wholly to worshiping you.

Today I listened and took in your word, the psalmist's witness, and the devotion present in the room.  I realized once again how faith is so palpable, a visible reality that stretches and grows leaving one with a sense of spiritual abundance.  It's like wading in a glistening pool of joy.  As I drank in the loving joy, I was overcome by your power and grace, yet another of your many gifts.

Gracious God,
what must
I do
to give thanks?
How can
I begin
to express
to you
my spiritual wonder
and thanksgiving?
Thank you
for drawing me
into yourself.
My heart
is full
and my
love is overflowing.

Always and forever yours, Andrea

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

My dearest God,

Forgiveness, the sweet scent of love's own grace.  I received it today and gave it yesterday.

I know what it is like to withhold forgiveness; I have done it many times I am ashamed to say.  Believing somehow that life would fall apart if I gave it away so freely, I had to hang on to my disappointment, hurt, resentment, and anger.  However, my actions only kept me from experiencing liberation, a cleansing of my soul, and joy that replaced the noxious feelings I held.

But a miracle came my way.  It was you who forgave me and showed me the way to wholeness.  Ever since then I have found that forgiveness is the key to most disturbances in life.

When "I'm sorry" comes to me, I let go of old, rotten feelings that keep me apart from those I love.  My insides feel so good, so open, and so warm.  I experience a rush of love that draws me closer and helps me see problems from a wider perspective.

It is when I offer forgiveness that I see the look of relief in the eyes of the other.  I watch pain and sorrow wash away as joy steps in and takes its rightful place.  It's a wonderful feeling for both.

I looked forgiveness in the eye today and I liked it.

You are
the author
of forgiveness,
O God.
You give us
the opportunity
for second chances
and new life.
Thank you,
thank you,
thank you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, April 30, 2012

Dearest God,

A room full of stories, relationships built through tragedy, birth, biology, reunions, shared hobbies, church, "living next door", and friendships.  My uncle's death afforded me the opportunity to spend time with many special people.  As I gazed down the center aisle of the church where people stood to pay their respects, I remembered precious stories tucked away in my memory, some for more than 60 years.

You have taught me the value of story.  As I read the bible, I read one story after another.  The church and synagogue read stories every week.  The story then begins to live inside the person hearing the story.

My dad told me a lot of stories, so did Uncle Merrill.  On occasion when I am missing these beloved twins, I hear a story in my head, usually a funny story of some variety.  A smile comes across my face when I suddenly realize their story has become my own.

I am cognizant of the fact that I am making stories with my grandchildren.  Every time we get together we sing songs, do silly things, pray together, make up words, plan very fun events, sleep on the floor...it goes on and on.  I am purposefully making stories because I want my precious grandchildren to have plenty of wonderful stories tucked away inside them just like me.  I want to give them stories to call up anytime they need to laugh or remember or cry or to get through a tough time.  I want them to have stories that tie them to family, to me, to you, or to special moments and places.

But as I think about story, I really think about your story and how you have tucked it away inside me.  You and I have made many stories of faith.  Stories of encouragement, hope, courage, love, help, mobilization, trust, risk, "leaping tall building in a single bound", miracles, silence, sacred dance, insight, revelation, death, surrender, light and life.  Even now as I think about it, I have to acknowledge the wondrous stories of your glory that have become part of my life.

Thank you
for entrusting me
with your story
and for
giving me
my own stories
to share
with others,
family, friends,
retreatants, parishioners,
and even
to strangers.
I am blessed.
and filled
with gratitude
to you.
Thank you
for the joy
that comes
with every story.

Love, Andrea