Wednesday, November 21, 2012

My dearest God,

How is it possible to be full of hallelujahs?  My soul felt full as I drove to the monastery listening to beautiful Christmas music.  As I drove in the fog, I heard the invitation, "O come all ye faithful...".  Come to me, I heard as I felt the draw of eternity.  Come.  As I let my soul open it was as if you personally asked me, "Do you hear what I hear?  Do you see what I see?"

The very thought of gazing upon eternity, of listening for her sounds inspires, touches, and humbles me by love that allows me in.  When you open the doors of heaven, joy rushes out and inside me.  I feel overwhelmed, so much so that my eyes fill with tears and spill over down my face.

Feelings of gratitude come pouring out of me. Suddenly scenes of heaven's gifts unfold before me.  I see your work, your grace, and your kindness.  I see ways you fill me with glory just because you choose to touch me through the environment around me.  You used the fog, the drive, the music, the clearing, and even the warmth in the car.  You used the simple ordinary to reveal grace's extraordinary to me.

As I pulled into the monastery and began the walk up the steps to ring the doorbell to enter for worship, I couldn't help but give thanks.  As I looked upon my colleague, I was moved to think how you brought four people together nearly 25 years ago to make the journey of faith together.  In the silence, the note was played and a sister sang, "Lord, open our lips...," and we responded, "...and my mouth shall declare your praise."

Yes,
Gracious God,
my mouth
does declare
your praise
and why not?
What else
can I do
to show
my appreciation,
my love
and devotion,
my faith?
Thank you,
my redeemer,
for overflowing joy.
My mouth
will continue
to give you praise
again and again
and again
and...

Love, Andrea