Friday, January 18, 2013

Dear God,

Your drawing power can shift any situation or condition.  You have the power to break through any darkness, despair, or difficulty.  You can meet us in challenging moments and turn our heads to the light. Or you can simply say hello in the early morning hour.

After praying, taking my medicine, and folding some napkins before sunrise, I walked into the darkened living room, plugged in the Christmas tree lights, and sat down on the couch to write.  But I kept looking up to gaze upon the tree that has blessed us this season of joy.

I am always reluctant and resistant to taking down the tree after epiphany because it too is a symbol of your living presence for me.  I love the tiny white lights.  They speak to me of your glorious light that warms the soul, heals the heart, and fills us with peace.  I love the aging golden angel whose wings had broken even before I placed it on top of the tree.  Her outstretched arms seem to embrace the whole household.  I love the red beads that shine and sparkle bringing a smile to my face.  I love all the glass and wooden frosty ornaments that I have made to give away, my tree now more bare because they found new homes with my children and grandchildren.  I love the pine scent that wafts its way through our home giving the illusion that we live in a pine forest. I love it all because it draws me to you.

Thank you
for lovely gifts
of your
living presence.
Thank you
for using
what we have
to remind us
of your spirit.
Thank you
for pointing us
to you
so we
may pause
to celebrate,
to express
our gratitude,
to pray,
to enjoy,
and to praise.
Thank you
for constantly
recalling to
our minds
your reality
in the world.
Thank you
for our
beautiful time together
this morning.

Love, Andrea