Monday, April 29, 2013

My dearest God,

How can we surround a lost loved one with miraculous light?  How can we break the darkness that seems to have such a gripping hold?  How can we cause your grace-filled love to spill over into a stoned-in heart?

Early this morning as I prayed for my loved one, your words came to me, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free."  How many times did these words break the spell of darkness in my own life?  How many times did they force me to realize the truth was real?  How many times did their power do their work that liberates people from their despair?   So many times.

Sometimes I forget the truth that sets people free.  Sometimes I forget to turn to you in times of trouble.  Sometimes I forget to share with others the truth that sets people free.   But not today!  I will share it and let it do its work, your work, your loving work!

Liberating God,
thank you
for the truth
that sets
people free.
Thank you
for the power
of light
that can dispel
every darkness
that surrounds us.
Thank you
for love
that can enter
every stone-cold heart.
Break down
the barrier
placed by
my loved one
because she believes
a falsehood
about herself.
Hold on
to her,
I pray,
and do not
let her go.
Thank you
for loving her
so much.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, April 28, 2013

My dearest God,

Thank you for the drawing power of church.  There is no greater joy than the feeling of being included in your place of love.  After all, you were lead to create church, that sense of wondrous community where grace takes center stage.

I heard them singing as I turned the corner walking to the family I have come to love.  I felt the urgency in my soul to get there, to join them in song, to offer my own faith, and to give away some of the joy you have given me.  As I walked up the steps and moved inside, I felt a smile spread wide on my face.  Truly, I was home, at home in faith, love, and grace.

I teased the first man I saw, a friend whose bantering I so enjoy.  Around the  pew came another man with open arms whose friendship grew last summer.  Three women retreatants waved, their faces aglow just being in your presence and seeing on my face the same faith look they were wearing.

Throughout the service I realized once again why faith is the most important commodity in the world.  Our prayers, our joy, our giving, and our love blend to create something so much bigger than ourselves.  The word in both song and message go to the heart of who we are and for however long it may be, we establish ourselves deeper in your embrace and more importantly you welcome us in.

Glorious God,
so generous
with blessings
for your children,
thank you
for the gift
of church,
for faith,
grace, and love.
Thank you
for hope
that seeds itself
Sunday after Sunday.
Thank you
for your
living presence
so apparent
when our hearts
are truly open
to you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Dear God,

You make all things new.  It is your desire to restore and recreate.  When our lives are not what they could be, you set in motion the possibility of change and not just any change, a beautiful change.  This afternoon I learned this lesson from my sanctuary garden.

The plot of ground has been neglected for a long, long time.  What had been planted a century ago was cow roses, a huge, ugly, thorny hedge intended to keep cows in the pasture but now there are no cows, just an overgrowth of invasive plants and trees.  It is not safe to walk there because it was also used for a dumping ground by home owners who discarded tin, glass, plastic, and paper.  Let go it became unsightly, gangling, and lost.

That was when you called me to a big task.  You invited me to reclaim its beauty.  You coaxed me to enter in, to pull, cut, rip out, rake and design a new sanctuary garden.  Overwhelmed at first, I just began picking up, ridding the garden of its debris.  After clearing a path I added plants and bulbs.  Little by little we are working together, the garden and I and my friend who loves working in the soil.  And truly what is happening is remarkable.

This is what you do with the human soul.  Every soul is cluttered with something it does not need.  Every soul has an overgrowth of invasive something.  Every soul has an undergrowth of something else.  Every soul is  treated as a dumping ground for junk.  Every soul has some untended area.  Every soul needs some kind of work done by the Master Creator.  And when you begin...oh my, what you can do and are willing to do is extraordinary.  You work in bits and pieces showing us just enough to titillate and inspire.  As we trust you more and more, giving more of our self to you, you create a song for us to sing as you work.  Your creation takes on new hues and before long, your grand design begins to show through, a resplendent work of beauty and joy.

Who loves
more than you,
Loving Creator?
Who graces
more than you?
Who works
harder than you?
Who designs,
sculpts, and paints
better than you?
Who calls
what you do
beautiful?
No one
but you.
Oh but wait,
you give us
the song
to sing
while you work.
Let us
sing it,
a song
of praise
and thanksgiving.

Love always, Andrea

Friday, April 26, 2013

Dearest God,

On my hands and knees in the dirt reminds me of the beauty of your creation!  What a joy it is to be your handmaid in the sanctuary garden!

As I tackle an untamed garden filled with noxious weeds and evasive trees, I am reminded of your work in the weedy areas of my own life.  It is a good exercise to be down and dirty remembering to pray, to confess, to give thanks, and to praise.

As I work methodically to prepare the spiritual path in my own garden, I think of the countless ways you work in my life and the lives of others.  You painstakingly pull up those toxic roots and beliefs.  You clean and clear out the yucky debris that has kept us from growing beautiful for you.  You replenish the necessary  life-giving elements of our souls.  You pour out your living water quenching our spiritual and emotional dryness.  You lavish us with the sunshine of your love preparing us for some wonderful thing.

You are God;
there is none
like you.
You amaze us,
Gracious God,
with so
many gifts
and blessing.
You guide us
toward wholeness
and beauty.
Your goodness
astounds us!
Thank you,
Holy God,
again and again
I say
thank you!

Love, Andrea

Thursday, April 25, 2013

My dearest God,

Early this morning as I stirred in my bed, I welled up with gratitude not just for the many blessings in life like family, love, home, and health but rather for the awareness of your living presence.  All else pales compared to that.  It is the sense of love in the air, love that embraces, holds, challenges, reveals, and transforms.  When I see a sunrise, I think of you.  When I see a newborn baby, I think of you.  When I see springtime budding, I think of you.  When I awaken to a new day, I think of you.  When I see one person helping another, I think of you.  You are so very present in the world and today, I am grateful for the sacred awareness of you.

Holy God,
thank you
for who
you are
and what
you speak
in the cosmos.
Thank you
for the
countless ways
you remind us
of your
living presence.
Put a prayer
on our lips
so we
may praise you
always!

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Dearest God,

"Welcome home!"  I heard as I saw neighbors after several months.  Home, I thought, home.  Although I do not consider Maine my permanent home, still I am home here.

I love experiencing home.  I love the feeling of being at peace, content, warm.  Home whispers safety, security, warmth, acceptance, and love.

But there is no home like yours, no home that connects me more than you and I don't just mean heaven or eternity.  I mean our relationship, yours and mine make home for me.  Truly, I feel joy when I think of the home you and I have made together.  I feel a sense of inclusion, hope, and delight.  You are my spiritual home, the most important home in my life.  While my other "homes" are important, none stacks up to the home you provide.

I am home no matter where I am because I am with you.

Thank you,
Wondrous God,
for the gift
of companionship.
Thank you
for allowing me
to partner
with you.
Thank you
for faith
and love
that connects us
every moment
of every day.
Thank you,
my Lord,
thank you.

Love always, Andrea

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Dearest God,

Oh, the beauty of springtime!  Driving across Pennsylvania, gazing upon the trees in bud and others in full blossom reminds me of your living presence.  When life seems dark, all we need to do is look out the window to remember the seasons and your love for all your children.  Just as barren winter trees transform so do you give us the power to change.  We are not lost in our dilemmas rather we are seemingly a breath away from transformation.

Right now I know many who are in the midst of difficult situations.  They may feel lost, helpless, and sometimes even hopeless.  What they may not know is they are in the springtime of life where you are wanting to give new birth.  Your love is just like that.  You are waiting for our approval to move forward in our lives.  You want to move us out of the dead winter debris to a place of fertile soil.  Help us say yes.

Gracious and Loving God,
we are
your children.
Help us
reflect upon
our need
to walk
with the God
who loves us,
who pulls
for us
in every situation
in life,
and who possesses
enough grace
to renew us
in faith.
Thank you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, April 22, 2013

Dear God,

It really is true!  When we trust in you, take your outreached hand, and take the first step following you, the miracle begins.  A mind can be changed, a broken heart can be healed, and a new life can be forged. Repeatedly you show us the way.

Once again I witnessed the miracle of life.  I watched a disappointing hurt, a built-up resentment, and an ugly bitterness be massaged by faith.  I observed the healing from afar and finally up close.  I saw your hand prints.

More and more I discover evidence of your compassionate love.  I find your love to be greater than any other.  I unearth facts leading to the conclusion that you care immensely for all your children, the good and the bad, the loving and the uncaring, and the the merciful and the unmerciful.  Your love is the same for us all.

When I gaze upon a new life reshaped by your hands, I know your love has spilled out in that direction.  I see it for myself and my own faith is strengthened.  I am wowed by your mercy!

Thank you,
Heavenly Father,
for loving us.
Thank you
for the healing
of my friend.
Thank you
for faith
that gives eyes
to see
through the
vale of tears.
You are
a wondrous God!

Love, Andrea

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Dearest God,

On this cold wintry day smack dab in the middle of springtime I sat in the back of an SUV with my daughter, granddaughter, and great granddaughter watching my grandson play softball.  It was my first time to hold the latest addition to our family.  Little CaliAnn looked up into my eyes as I sang Jesus Loves Me, Jesus Loves the Little Children, and Great is thy Faithfulness.  I whispered to her the tenets of faith and prayed with her. I wanted her to know you.

With so many people turning away from faith, I wanted to instill something that mattered in my small great grandchild.  Although much loved by her extended family, I know your love is greater still.  I know nothing can match your love.  I also know she will face difficulty in her life and there will be times when she will be afraid and stymied by life situations.  I wanted her to know there is a loving power beyond herself and yet as close as her breath.

Thank you
for precious moments
when faith
is alive
and at work.
Thank you
for love
that always
opens doors
to the future.
Thank you
for relationships
made possible
by your
loving hand.
Thank you,
O God,
for your gifts
and blessings.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, April 20, 2013

My dearest God,

When despair comes, it is sometimes difficult to see you through the smoky haze.  Although we look and look we often succumb to the numbness, the hopelessness, the pain, and the sorrow.  Fear can grip us leaving us still, motionless.  But it is precisely at that time you come in ways we cannot even begin to fathom.

Stories of your appearance have been coming forth.  Seconds after two bombs were detonated, you were seen running toward the victims.  At the marathon you were in the crowd and were among the first seen helping tear down fencing to get to those who were hurt and dying.  You held a little girl whose leg was blown off.  You picked up the injured and carried them to waiting vehicles.  You gave blood.  You sat with the families of the lost and critically injured.  You spread comfort and spilled your love in the streets, in the hospitals, and in the homes of the frightened.  You never took into account what could happen to you as you aided those around you.

In our darkest hours you become the sole light and that light, that wondrous light warms, clears, helps, and shines.  As we begin to see our way, we grab hold of the light allowing it to enter our minds, hearts, and souls.  Peace begins to emerge and we know that we know that we know you are with us.

Thank you,
Great God,
for your
living presence.
Thank you
for your love
that constantly
shows up
right where
we are.
Clear our insides
so the
most of you
can enter
the most
of us.

Love always, Andrea

Friday, April 19, 2013

Dearest God,

Teach us the way of peace.  Show us how to work with each other honoring our differences.  Remind us our way is not the only way.  Reveal to us the means of compromise.

So often we believe our reality is the acceptable way but we forget the world is ever changing.  We forget every day is new with other possibilities.  We forget the injustices.  We forget people around us have their own thoughts.  So much can we learn from one another.

When our world is shaken by great tragedies like the one in Boston, I wait to hear your word.  Do I become incensed?  Do I blame and judge?  Do I cry out "crucify"?  Do I try to learn from the horror?  Do I attempt to reflect upon the minds of those charged with the misdeeds?  Do I imagine how I can help change the world by being more tolerant?

So much pain and sorrow is inflicted upon helpless people.  So many in Boston continue to suffer.  Many will run out to buy guns thinking they will be safe.  It seems to me shifting our thoughts, making room for differing opinions, considering the paralysis so many people live under, and learning to love one another could help ease the tension we all live with in this ever-changing world.

As I pray for all those hurt by this horrible incident, I remember once again the plight of those in other parts of the globe who live with fear every day and I pray for them as well.  I must remember we are all part of the human planet that we all call home.  Help me understand so I can add to our healing rather than our demise.

Good and Gracious God,
once again
I ask you
to teach us
the way
of peace.
Aid us
with your love
so we
may truly learn
how to love
one another.
Please forgive
our intolerance,
our arrogance,
our faithlessness,
and our
stubborn resolve
to destroy.
Show us
your better way.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Dear God,

Only you can flood the human heart with love, O Lord.  Only you can bring peace to the troubled mind.  Only you can rid the soul of heavy weights that burden and curse.  Only you.

Right now my own list of concerns for others is full at home and around the world.  I pray reminding myself you are the author of merciful compassion.  I lift up individuals, leaders, and nations asking for your help and guidance.  I pray to do my part in bringing more love into the cosmos.

I know what it feels like when a soul is so burdened down and paralyzed that it sees nothing but despair.  But I also know how faith in you can lift the heaviest obstacle.  I know the freedom you offer, the peace.

Every child of the earth is yours.  May we all know it and live as a family, a loving one.

Pour out
your healing salve,
O God.
Restore us
to your creation.
Free us
from burdens
never intended
to weigh
us down.
Help us laugh again.
Bring us
your joy,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

My dearest God,

I couldn't stop staring at the white cloth wrapped around the arms of the tall, dark brown cross.  In the monastery for morning prayer, I looked up to see the cross and I was taken by the words implicit in the cloth.  Restored, renewed, reconciled, reborn, remade.  Somehow the lovely white cloth revealed a stronger power than the power of the cross to kill.  Like the scent of a newborn baby, the cloth spelled out love in its rawest form.

So often, O Lord, we see dead ends around us.  We see hopelessness and despair because we see only impossibility.  The cross of Jesus, your son, was seemingly a dead end, a final answer.  But it was not!  He showed us, you showed us proof of divine love greater than any power to destroy.

Whenever there is great tragedy, I fall backward into your arms searching for truth, help, guidance, love, and faith.  I pray not for you to be with us but for us to drop back into your waiting arms as close as breath.  In your embrace we pick up our breathing knowing the air we breathe is sacred because you are in the air all around us.  You are the air, the oxygen that gives life.  In the midst of death we find ourselves breathing life.  We gain our equilibrium and strength to move forward in trust and hope.

O God,
help us
not lose hope
when we witness
the power
of death
to destroy.
When we lose
our footing,
help us regain
a foothold
on life.
Help us remember
the power
of faith
to overcome
the power
of evil
in the world.
Help us
draw close
to you
and one another,
our sisters
and brothers
upon this
good earth
you have made.
Teach us
the way
to breathe
the air
of eternal life
every moment
of every day.
Raise us up
to fulfill
your promises,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Dearest God,

Even amid sorrow you direct us to grasp for joy, to find meaning and value, to rise high to find faith.  The deeper the darkness the more you call us to the light.  In our despair you offer hope.

You have shown us how and why we should always be ready to be transformed.  You want us to be flexible, malleable in your hands.  In that way we learn not to fix ourselves in our situation but rather to place ourselves in your hands where we find safety, rest, peace and the ability to change.

The greater the evil in the world the more you ask for open, willing hearts, souls, and minds.  You want us to rid ourselves of all those things that will lock us into a place of destitution.  You want to take us to green pastures and living water.  You want to feed us with the food of heaven.  You want us to set up tents rather than build concrete buildings so we can pick up and move at a moment's notice.  What is of greater value than blessing you with our desire to follow?

Teach us
to eat
and drink
from your hands.
Feed us strength
for our journey.
Give us courage
to face obstacles.
Remind us
of your promise
to be constant
in your love
and living presence.
Remind us
to be faithful
like you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, April 15, 2013

My dearest God,

You are God of us all, every human being on the face of the earth.  Your love extends to the farthest reaches.  Nothing can hinder your love.

Each time I learn of bombings and violence against a people, I wonder how much hatred it takes to kill innocent people and for what ultimate purpose.  I wonder what justification anyone can have to engage in the destruction of human life.  Today's bombing in Boston reminds me how a single thread of evil can amass so much destructive force.  And while this bombing took place in my land, I am so aware of lands where bombing occurs regularly, where violence is part of daily living.  But then I think of how violence lives close to everyone's home in some way or another.

What will it take, O God, to break down the evil within us, the penchant for violence? As I pray for those touched by the outbreak of evil in Boston, I pray for peoples in the Middle East, in Africa, in India and in every home.

I am cognizant of the fact your love is still greater than evil.  Your grace can still wipe away sin in its vilest form.  Your mercy can heal every wounded heart.  Make us aware of you.  Reveal yourself to us.  Turn us toward you and finally toward one another.  Make us a new people, one family.

Great God,
maker of heaven
and earth,
heal your people,
I pray.
Take the
evil within
and remake it,
remake us.
Let your love
recreate us,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Dear God,

There are not enough thank yous to adequately express gratitude for springtime.  As I watch my contemplative garden grow, I marvel.  Each morning the leaves stretch higher than the day before.  The grass is greening.  The trees are budding.  The clematis will soon lean toward the archway, wrapping itself on round metal poles.  Before I know it the garden will be in full bloom.

How can I possibly express my thanksgiving for so much new life?  As I continue to follow the progress of nest building in my blue spruce just outside my window, I teem with joy.  The pair of turtle doves now pecking in my garden brings peace and the return of the birthing season.

O Lord,
my God,
thank you
for springtime,
the busyness
of robins,
cardinals,
turtle doves,
and ducks
that roam
through our yard,
and for
the ability
to celebrate
your handiwork.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Dear God,

Your healing power is great!  Your love extends to the ends of the cosmos still being created!  Your grace can erase the vilest offense.

As I discover more evidence of your work in the world, I am mystified by so great a love.  This weekend I watched as friends once torn apart by great obstacles came together through faith.  I observed a reborn hope that kindles your light in every darkness.  We laughed, remembered, and celebrated as we spoke of the power of prayer to awaken us from our sleep, making us aware of your living divine presence.  So sweet is your mercy!

I realize once again that nothing can separate us from you or each other when bound together by faith.

Heavenly Father,
Gracious God,
Merciful, Compassionate Friend,
thank you
for your
healing power.
Thank you
for unwarranted love.
Thank you
for mercy,
forgiveness,
and grace.

Love, Andrea

Friday, April 12, 2013

Dearest God,

You find ways to heal us.  You guide us in the direction of renewal and hope.  You mend and restore us.  All this happens because love and grace are greater than our worst sin and our most painful sorrow.

In sixty six years I have witnessed a great deal.  Always interested in what you are doing in human lives, I watch and wait to see what you will do.  I participate when you call me to hold the hand of someone else or to walk part of their journey with them.  When you have challenged me to change direction or to stop and reflect or to make a mid-course direction in my own life, I have tried to trust you to help me.  Although at times I am like a recalcitrant child, you woo me back revealing how love conquers all.

This morning as I write I look into the darkness knowing sure well that the light will soon come.  It always does just like love and grace.

I am grateful
you do not
leave us
the way
we are
but rather
you offer us
changing times.
Let transformation come,
O Lord,
let it roll
right down
upon us.
As we rise,
make us able
to praise you.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Dearest God,

As I sit writing you, I am looking out my study window gazing upon a robin collecting debris for her nest.  As she struggles to pull the dead plant fibers from a budding plant, I think of her faithfulness to provide for her family.  I listen as the birds call out to one another and I think of how you have blessed creation with an annual plan for the seasons.  This time of year is so beautiful as those plants hidden for so long reappear like magic.

Clearly there is a rhythm to life.  There is the yin and the yang.  There is the movement of change.  As the birds know their time, they begin the process of creation over again.  They pick their place and begin their work.  Soon there will be eggs and then tiny baby birds.  Then one day they will pop up to the edge of the nest and fly away just as you planned.  So good!

Thank you,
O Lord,
for reminding us
of the rhythm
of daily life.
Help us remember
you are
the author,
the source,
the giver,
and the God
of creation.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Dear God,

As I began my trek back home, I reflected upon my life with you.  I thought of your many blessings, the countless ways you have touched and inspired my life.  I figured if I died today my life was already full of goodness.

Some days I don't focus on gratitude.  I forget to acknowledge your gifts.  I go about my daily routine and fail to say thanks.  I take life for granted.  I don't want to do that.  I want to be a thankful person.  I want to live in thanksgiving every day.  I want to offer up my praise and devotion confessing you as the gift giver.

As I looked over the majestic rolling hills of Kentucky, I realized the gift of spring, geography, warm weather, horses, flowers, the ability to drive, safety, and family.  But more than all this, I thought of faith and how it always directs me back to you.

Thank you,
Faithful God,
for allowing me
to connect
with you.
Let that
relationship be
the most
important gift
in my life.
Help me
be a
thankful person
twenty four hours
a day.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

My dearest God,

We are more beautiful when we are red, black, brown, yellow, and white.  Without the human rainbow of colors we are a single hue, lost in ourselves, arrogant and thoughtless.  But together, my oh my, we are something, one people made in your magnificent image.

As I sit here in Berea, a humble, quiet, creative community of students hungry to learn, I feel a divine presence, a longing for the sacred as well as the academic.  The trees are ready burst in color.  They move with the gentle breeze, the tall, yellow trumpet-like daffodils dancing in the wind.  And just last night a Bluegrass trio sang and played in the old hotel lobby while I patted the rhythm on my crossed legs singing along when I could.

You give each day's its own unique beauty.  Love blossoms somewhere and finds its way to us.  And we are blessed even if we don't know it.

Thank you,
Mysterious God,
full of
infinite possibility.
Thank you
for hope,
and joy,
and peace.
Thank you
for color,
for springtime,
for diversity,
for inclusion,
for love.

Always, Andrea

Monday, April 8, 2013

Dear God,

I took a journey of creation today as I drove through three states to spend time with my sister.  I gazed at the green and purple fields in Kentucky and thought how wonderful you are to bring death out of life. Just weeks ago I am sure those same locations were brown and dead; yet, under the surface life was stirring.  So like you.

As I caught sight of my sister, I felt glad to share the same family with her.  I realized how valuable family is and why it is important to stay connected.  I thought how meaningful it is that you stay connected to us.  Although we may have our squabbles and disagreements, you never let go, the most precious gift of all.

Our family has not always been easy for you and us as well.  Some are quick to let go, to break the chain and what sometimes seems like death eventually stirs new life in us as well.  Human fields in need of rebirth and you give it.  I'm so very grateful.

Stir in us,
O Lord,
remove winter debris
from our souls,
I pray.
Give us life
once again.
Remind us
you are
the source
of life
and oh,
how we
need you.
Thank you
for beauty
that comes
as we surrender
unto you.
My heart
is full.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, April 7, 2013

Dear God,

How grateful I am to continue the Easter celebration.  As you touch my life and I watch the ways you are inspiring so many more, I realize once again resurrection is not just a one-day event.  New life is occurring all the time!

As I sat in church with my husband and five grandchildren, you brought to mind other moments of rebirth, many, perhaps even most, unexpected.  You simply gave new birth and like a newborn baby we could smell the scent and feel the purity of the many gifts new life brings.

As I count my blessings, I acknowledge you at the top.  No one is a greater blessing than you, Loving God.

Thank you
for blessings
of new birth.
Thank you
for the death
of the old
that keeps us
bound in chains.
Thank you
for grace
that is
ever fresh!

Love, Andrea

Saturday, April 6, 2013

My dearest God,

Your plans are always better than our own.  As we follow along doing the unexpected, love is borne and grace is provided.  Faith is strengthened and life is good.

A situation occurred a few months ago.  Much hurt was experienced by several people.  None of us were sure we could resolve things well enough that we could pick up where we left off and find peace and joy.  But that is because we were all thinking much too small.

This weekend I caught a glimpse of what you wanted to do and I simply trusted you.  It seemed effortless and everything turned out just as you imagined it would.  Far better than I thought it might.  Love blossomed again.  We all laughed and enjoyed one another.  But you knew it would be that way.  You knew what was at stake.  You knew what was possible.  You gave it all...but then...you always do.

Who loves
like you,
Heavenly Father?
No one.
Thank you
for the gifts,
the beautiful,
wonderful gifts
of love
and mercy.
But more
than that,
thank you
for the relationship
with you.
There is none
like one
with you.
Compassionate God,
thank you
from the bottom
of my heart!

Love, Andrea

Friday, April 5, 2013

Dearest God,

Love can push and prod us to do more to love others.  A long time ago I stood before you naked, stripped of all my own power and persuasion, weary from trying to do things my own way, and lost, unable to keep on going.  Life was ebbing away because of illness, years of overworking, family squabbles, and living in a collapsing box of my own making.  I was losing ground and you came to me in a most powerful, loving way. That day, that minute, that second everything changed.  A major shift in my grounding took place and the picture I saw looked dramatically different.  I kept blinking my eyes, smiling and weeping, because you showed me the way things really were.  You revealed another way to live and you offered me the courage, power, and strength to live it your way.  I breathed in a new life knowing with certainty you were the author of compassion, mercy, and grace.

As I began to live your new life for me, trusting implicitly in your guiding direction, I regained myself in a new and wondrous way.  As I reclaimed your loving power in my life receiving constant blessing of love and hope, I followed you.  Whether I felt good or was laid low with illness, I continued to live in divine love that was mine.  Eventually even the illness knelt to your benevolent care and I stood freed by the Great Physician.

Your love urged me to pray for others particularly those I felt had injured me in any way.  In a short period of time my love for all those began to grow.  It grew and grew.  I no longer showed you my list of hurts and names of people who had harmed me.  I trusted you to increase my love and you did in such a wonderful way.  I began to reach out, to pray daily for others, and to give away love because I always had more than I needed. I no longer hoarded your gifts but started regularly sharing with those around me.

Today I gave away love to someone who hurt me a long time ago and I realized how far we, you and I, had come.  Even though I shared my love which was really your love, I still had plenty for myself.  I was still full and surprisingly I watched as you filled the other person.  What a beautiful scene as both of us realized your goodness.

Thank you,
O God,
for moving us
in our
spiritual and
emotional lives.
Thank you
for your unwillingness
to leave us
as we are.
Thank you
for growing us
in grace
enabling us
to give mercy
to others.
Thank you
for showing us
the way
to you
and to
the future.
You are
the only God;
there is none
like you.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Dear God,

I finally had the courage that heaven provides when I needed to talk to a son about relationships.  I confessed to him my husband and I did nothing to warrant a second chance a few years ago but you gave it to us anyway.  Grace is that way I told him.  Then I went on to tell him what I needed to say realizing several years ago the conversation had not been possible but now grace could lead the way.  It was good.

I have learned the world I contrive myself is always smaller than yours.  The possibilities are few and I know it all.  Life has many dead ends and hope, grace, and faith have only a little power.  But your world, your world is different, vastly different.  In your world possibilities are endless.  Grace has power because it is always fueled by love.  Hope lives because faith can move people seemingly to do the impossible.  Joy is an everlasting fountain because courage can help people do what they thought they could not.  Peace happens because there is strength in belief and things can change because people can be transformed.  When people follow your lead and take your direction, oh my, what wonders are wrought.

When I start my day considering you first, the day looks and feels different.  It unfolds in beautiful ways even if it is difficult.  Hope awakens me reminding me how blessed I am so I can go throughout my day trusting, trusting in you, myself, and others.

Holy and Mysterious God,
please forgive me
when I think
too small.
Expand my thinking
when I
fall prey
to the temptation
to believe
what is
not true.
Your world
is full
of wonder
and choices.
Your love
makes it possible
for my love
to grow
and then
grow some more.
Thank you
for blessing me
again.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Dear God,

How I wish I was like the new crocus blooming in my garden.  They rise up from their sleeping to break through the obstacles of sod and snow to blossom, disclosing their beauty.  When the sun begins to shine, they open their tiny petals revealing their inner beauty.  Then as the day wears on and evening starts to show its face, they slowly close up for the night.  The white, purple, and yellow flowers fulfill their purpose each day until they are no more.

Why can't I be as diligent and devoted as the delicate spring buds?  Why can't I break through my own obstacles to do what you designed me to do?  Why can't I open and close as you desire?

The spiritual path is not an easy one; yet, it is the only worthy path in life.  As I daily attempt to follow you, I want to be more flexible, willing and ready to do what you want.  I want to be a devoted follower of your son.  I want to share my own inner beauty with you and others.  But sometimes I am reticent and I hold back.  Help me be sensitive to your call, I pray.

Thank you,
O God,
for gentle reminders
of the way
to be
your loyal servant.
Teach me,
challenge me,
move me
to do
your bidding,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Dearest God,

You provide tender care every day, 24/7.  And why do you do it?  Because you are a merciful God.  You are compassionate and grace-filled.  As we seek to find you, you reveal yourself every time.  If we do not see you, it is because we are not looking in the right places.  We are not attentive to the spiritual realm deeper than the physical world we see around us.

As I was driven to the hospital for a minor procedure, I was mindful of each person who offered loving care.  My husband, the hospital receptionist, the admission clerk, the nurses that laughed with me when I simply said I had nothing to do today so I thought I would have a colonoscopy, the nurses who prepared me for the procedure, the doctor who stopped by before I was wheeled into the operating room, the OR nurse who prepped me for my anesthesia, the nurses who cared for me in recovery and back in my room and also the nurse who wheeled me to my car.  I realized each hand was your hand, each hand loving and compassionate, each hand holy.

Thank you,
Gracious God,
for your
tender care.
Thank you
for love
that awakens me
in the morning
and puts me
to bed
every night.
Thank you,
O God,
for the relationship
you provide.
Thank you
with all
my heart.

Love, Andrea

Monday, April 1, 2013

Dear God,

You were right in the room, a living presence.  An event unfolded before my eyes, something I could not have known on my own.  But you guided me to a truth.  Although disturbing and disappointing you revealed yourself and your plan for the moment unfolded perfectly.

On a number of occasions you guided me toward a truth.  You shone your light and suddenly things were made clear.  In those moments you opened doors to conversations that led to liberation and freedom.  In your light opportunities toward healing appeared and you whispered your encouragement.  Healing came because your love led the way.

Merciful God,
you make
your love known
day in
and day out.
You want
to clear
our minds,
our consciences,
and our souls
of clutter
and debris
that stick
to our insides.
You pour out
your healing balm
and invite us
to be anointed.
With healing
comes hope
and faith.
Thank you,
thank you,
Wondrous Redeeming God.

Love, Andrea

Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013

Dearest God,

As is my usual tradition, this morning in the early dawn I stepped outside to listen for the celebration of Easter and I was not disappointed!  The birds were singing your song!  I heard no song but yours.  That was significant for me because I believe the birds and animals were the first to know of the rising of Jesus.  Since their senses are very keen, I imagine they saw and heard the stone rolling away and Jesus' quiet departure from the tomb.  And so on every Easter morning I leave the warmth of my home for the cool breeze of your spirit.

In my robe and socks I slipped outside on my patio.  The moment I opened the door I heard the joyous sound.  I walked out into my contemplative garden, stood on the first prayer stone, and smiled, real big.  I felt a layered kind of joy that seemed to wrap around the globe and I burst into singing.  "Up from the grave he arose with a mighty triumph o'er his foes.  He arose a victor from the dark domain and he lives forever with his saints to reign.  He arose!  He arose!  Hallelujah!  Christ arose!"  For the next several minutes in my pjs I sang out Easter hymns.  I wanted to proclaim my belief, my devotion,and my love for you so I sang.  I walked my prayer stones as I sang rejoicing in the good news.  When I reached the last stone, I turned north, and then west, and then south, and finally east, in the directions of Easter and I began to pray aloud all the while allowing the first joyous tears to collect.  Because I was full of joy, I just let them fall in thanksgiving.

Most Gracious God,
thank you
for Jesus Christ,
for faith
and all
it means.
Thank you
for living hope
and the joy
and peace
it brings.
Thank you
for Easter
and all
its blessings.
Be blessed,
my Lord!
Be blessed
by your
celebrating people,
I pray.

Love always, Andrea

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Dear God,

"Why do you seek the living among the dead?"  The line from our Easter choir anthem, "He is Not Here; He is Alive" spoke deeply to me and I wondered why it is we go to the "dead" to find life.  Oftentimes we go down dead ends, to non-essential things, to lifeless relationships, and to deadly places falsely believing we will find life there.  But what person ever does?

As we sang the song at this evening's Easter service, I realized how often I had taken off down dead-end streets thinking I would find what I was looking for.  However, every time I was disappointed.  I never found my answers there.  Although I met with disappointment and discouragement, I discovered you there waiting for me.  Each time you challenged me to move, go another direction, or return to the place where I stepped off the road.  The insight came to me that life can only be found among the living.

You revealed to me we can discover life in many places but a true life of joy, one that leads to wholeness,  is the same one that leads to holiness.  We seek life because we seek you.

No one
cares more
than you,
dear God,
no one.
When we
go looking
for happiness,
you urge us
to long
for real joy.
Please forgive us
when we grasp
for cheap substitutes.
Remind us
how your joy
leads to
fulfilled lives.
Thank you,
thank you,
thank you
for your
strange and
wonderful ways.

Love, An drea