Friday, June 1, 2013

Dearest God,

The way opened.  I found it.  Evidence of yet another leading of God.

I am confident we were drawn to this property, this parcel of land where a living sanctuary waited to be uncovered.  Each step along the way you revealed what was to come next.  You led the way in the meandering of the spiritual path.

Today as I worked pulling weeds and roots, I found the entrance to the monastery without walls.  I knew it was in the woods somewhere; I just did not know where but as I began my work on clearing the area near the opening to the path, I saw a half-moon stand of ferns on one side.  As I raked leaves and cleared other debris, I discovered the same configuration on the opposite side.  It was then I realized the area was just wide enough for the narrow path.  I hooped and hollered thanking you for your guidance.

From the moment I began to lay the first stone for the path, I have been inspired and guided by you.  I have never taken on such a huge project before but I felt compelled to partner with you to make a way for others to come, to walk the pilgrim path, to clear the mind, and to meet your spirit.  How good you are!

Thank you,
Wondrous God,
for your love
and grace.
Thank you
for caring
about your children,
all of us.
Thank you
for making
a way
through the thicket
to find you.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Dear God,

Very early this morning as the sun was waiting to rise in the eastern sky, I thought of you.  I thought of your many gifts, blessings that are free with no attachments or conditions.  I thought of air, the stuff we breathe every second, air that fills our lungs with life.  I thought of hope, that condition that keeps us breathing.  I thought of faith that provides a foundation out of which to see and live life.  I thought of love, that mysterious scent that wafts its way around us and penetrates our hearts reminding us we are supremely and utterly loved if by no one but you.  I thought of mercy, compassion that singles us out and tells us grace is for us.  As I rolled over and climbed out of bed, I gave thanks.

Kind and Merciful God,
my heart
is full
of gratitude.
You are God;
there is none
like you.
I am grateful!

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Dear God,

One of the greatest gifts you give is the challenge to remember.  Remember faith, remember faithfulness, remember peace, remember grace, remember love.

I love the Old Testament book of Isaiah because you tell the people to remember.  During their own dark days when they could not see you, when they felt you were far away, or they sensed abandonment, through your prophet Isaiah you nudged them to remember your ministry to them.  As they became cognizant of your daily life with them, they were able to overcome their difficulties until such time you became more visible to them.

As I consider my own life and the dark periods I face from time to time when I give in to worry, anxiety, or fear, you come to me urging me to remember the ways in which you have been with me through life's trials.  You push me to consider the countless moments you have whispered hope, encouraged me to remain steady, and revealed your love.  As I begin to ponder your faithfulness to me and others, my soul fills with a renewed sense of your presence and I am enabled to continue until the storm passes.

Great God,
thank you
for sustaining me
during hard times.
Thank you
for the constancy
of your mercy,
love, and grace.
As I allow
my mind
to fill
with remembrances
of divine favor,
my soul
rests easy
and I
find my way
to you.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Dear God,

One of the most beautiful events in all the world is the birth of hope.  When despair takes over a human life, the soul begins to wither.  All power is lost.  Pain and sorrow is the air breathed.  Everything looks bleak.  Darkness slithers into the light strangling the hopeless.

But hope, ahh!  Hope is the resurgence of strength.  Life rises out of death.  The air clears bringing with it the sweetness of grace.  The light takes on the darkness breaking into every corner where despair harbors.  The windows of the soul are opened and the dark debris rises and flies out the window.  Faith is borne and life is rich and full of opportunity.

Over the last few days I watched the rebirth of hope in a friend.  She had every reason to be afraid, uncertain with her physical health condition; however, she needed a booster shot of faith.  She got it in a very big way.  You revealed so much in so short a time.  Your mercy dripped from her chin as she proclaimed the joy of hope in you.

Your tender care
amazes and
wows us
every time.
We are astounded
by your love
that manifests itself
in so
many ways.
We are
ever so thankful,
Merciful and Compassionate God.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 27, 2013

Dear God,

You filled the room with joy!  Your glory shone!  Your love penetrated every heart!  What can I say in the face of such delight?

Yesterday was a day of music at church.  We sang our retiring choir director's favorite hymns and anthems.  When we stood it was if the angels were standing with us.  We sang with all we had, a robust sound of love for the savior who sustains us, gives us hope, pours joy into us, shines the light in our darkness, and empowers us with courage and strength to live the life of faith.

Our choir director's last day at the organ pushed us to the precipice of devotion where our hearts were glad to rejoice.  In my seat in the choir just inches away from her face, I watched as her resolve and love for Jesus showed themselves.  I realized once again the power of faith to move us beyond simple daily living to extraordinary moments of holiness and divine grace.  We were swept up in a joyous reunion with the God of our faith.

Dwelling in your living presence goes way beyond any other simple earthly pleasure.  It raises us to the heights of heaven.  It shows us the depth of your well of living water.  We drink because we recognize just how thirsty we are.  And taste, oh so sweet!  You lavish us in eternity's agape love and we are overcome with spiritual ecstasy!

Such is
your way,
O God.
You reach out
to us
inviting us in
to your party.
You reveal
the true joy
of faith
and the
amazing relationship
with the divine.
Together we celebrate
the wonders
of the
divine-human connection
and we
are grateful,
oh so
very grateful.
Thank you,
thank you,
thank you!

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Dear God,

Every day I look to you for sustenance for my soul.  I look to you for hope, for comfort, and for peace.  I look to you for the ability to be aware of your living presence in the world.  I look to you for guidance and direction to fully live the life I have been given.

As I begin a new day, I start with gratitude recognizing your nearness.  I rise knowing we will spend the day together, you and I.  I take steps into the day acknowledging your presence because I know my best days are the days I am intentional about my relationship with you.  When I stroll through the day with a sense of the divine, I am more joyful, more in harmony with my environment, and appreciative of the gifts I witness all day long.  I want to give more, share with others, and bless those around me.  I want to walk in the light dispelling the darkness wherever it exists.  The ability to live in the light comes from you and I give thanks.

As I ready myself for worship, I contemplate the ways I will be enabled to praise you in the community of faith.  My soul is full to overflowing!

Gracious God,
thank you
for the pleasure
of knowing you,
of being
part of
your family.
Thank you
for grace
that keeps me
on edge
remembering the blessings
you constantly
give me.
Thank you
for praise
and adoration
that gives me tools
to show
my thanksgiving.
I love you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 25, 2013

My dearest God,

As she walked along the spiritual path, she spoke her own words of transformation.  She could see her own life in process moving from abuse, fear, silence, despair, and bitterness.  "It's all about transformation, isn't it?"  She spoke.

I knew I was uncovering the original beauty of the woods when I started working to clear, clean, and communicate with the plot of land on the hill beside the river.  In the beginning it was an idea, a dream, a vision of what could be.  But I never saw it as the work of transformation but when my friend said the words, I realized again that was what I was doing.

I know I do not have the power to transform anyone or anything else except where and when you and I partner together to change things.  When the vision came to transform the woods, I simply became your handmaid as I worked day after day.  When I saw the look on my friend's face as she walked the path, I could see your ministry at work.  I could see how your power changes lives freeing them up for joy and delight.

Thank you
for spiritual power
to overcome
the sorrow
of the past.
Thank you
for hope
that leads us
to you.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 24, 2013

Dearest God,

What friend is better than you?  Who loves more?  Who exceeds our expectations every time?

Life with you is humanity's greatest gift!  Every day is a blessing with you.  We awaken with you and fall asleep in your arms.  All day long you provide scene after scene of creation's best.  The sun, moon, and stars remind us of your loving care.

As we cry out to you in our distress, you hear our call.  Your living presence enters us as we breathe in your loving spirit.  Although we attempt to run from you from time to time, you do not let go.  You whisper your mercy in our ear.

Constantly you remind us that we are your children.  I am your child.  My neighbor is your child.  We are family much loved.

Good and Gracious God,
thank you
for your gifts
but most
of all
for faith
that reveals
the truth
that sets us free.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Dear God,

My sanctuary garden continues to teach me life lessons.  As I dig in the dirt, I still find debris of every kind.  Each time something is uncovered I wonder how much more there is.  Yesterday I came across several pieces of clear broken glass, a 4" rusty metal object, old nails, a small plastic bag, and a tiny fragment of old fabric.  What on earth?

For sure the garden has been used as a debris field, a dumping ground.  A couple years ago I spent hours digging up long lines of barbed wire and a metal something or other that held the wire together.  I thought I would never get it all out.

As I clean out the garden, the garden spiritually speaks back to me.  What is inside you that needs cleaning up?  What debris do you need to clear?  What rubbish needs to be tossed?  As I persist in my work in the garden, I am thinking about those questions and giving thanks.

Thank you
for caring,
dear God.
Thank you
for inquiries
that inspire me
to think
about the life
in me
you have created.
Daily help me
clear and clean
my spirit.
Make me whole
by carving away
the junk,
the unnecessary,
all the obstacles
that keep me
from having
a pure spirit
in you.
While I restore
the living
sanctuary garden,
please renew me,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Dearest God,

Why does the rain come as a thirst quencher for some and tragedy for others?  Why do some people have to face unbearable pain while others seem to scoot through life so easily?  Why do some have eyes for heaven and others are blind to the sacred?

As I listen to the stories of those who faced the monstrous tornado in Oklahoma, I ask myself these questions.  I think of parents waiting to hear if their children survived the storm when their school was flattened upon them.  As I watch the story of the teen who was wooed by an internet predator who later killed her, I wonder why.  When I reflect upon daily life for those impacted by war, poverty, and injustice, I can't help but ask why the inequity.

Although it is difficult to come up with answers to these painful queries, one thing I do know for sure.  You hold the questions.  You hear the cry.  You love in the midst of every situation.    You urge us to help one another in any way we can.  You reveal yourself through compassionate people who hear and act upon your call.

Attune our ears
to you,
Almighty God;
be the word
of hope
to the suffering.
Teach us
to draw near,
to listen
to your word
so we
may be
that word
to another.
Show us
the way
of compassion
and mercy.
Use us
to care
for our neighbor
at home
and far away,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Dear God,

It began with a group of eight, four musicians and four pastors, four men and four women.  We were gathered in a circle for one purpose - prayer.  Our intention was to ask for your divine anointing, for your purpose to be fulfilled, for your power for the musicians to do their best, and for your glory to come. And we did pray, one, then another and another.  We each prayed our own way.  What a divine time as we sought you out, as we placed ourselves in your hands, as we acted in faith and trusted wholly in you.  We prayed because we believed.

As we walked away from the very small office, I felt as if we had been heaven-bound and we had reached eternity.  Your living presence was palpable as we humbly spoke to you or rather as we listened and followed your script.  We were already full as we entered the sanctuary and the musicians began playing.  And did they play!  For you!

Blessed Lord,
your power
is sweet.
Your kindness
is out-of-this-world.
Your love
is immeasurable.
Our hearts
are full
of gratitude
to you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 20, 2013

My dearest God,

Who can move mountains of sorrow, hopelessness, and despair?  Who can lift the heart and free the soul?  Who can change a rapidly decaying life scene?  Only you, Lord, only you.

Yesterday you were the wind beneath my wings.  You caused me to soar to greater heights as I opened myself wide to you.  On this Pentecost Sunday your spirit breath blew upon us in church.  I am positive our singing reached heaven and deep into the tiny village of Cape Porpoise.  In the same setting just a few hours later the music of the piano, violin, and organ invited us to go even higher.  By day's end we were full to overflowing with your loving, living presence.

As I reflect upon the wondrous day, the whole of my being is grateful because I realize how your power has strengthened me in my life, how it has changed me, my outlook and my perspective, and given me new opportunities to soar in faith.  Those times when life was difficult you came to me.  You showed me how your love is greater than any quagmire in which I may find myself.  You revealed how grace can relieve and release us from burdens too heavy to carry.  You directed me to hope where darkness is dispelled by the light every time.

Even now as I meditate upon your glory in the sanctuary yesterday, I marvel at your thoughtfulness, your kindness, and your devotion to your children.  Thank you for eyes to see it, ears to hear it, and a spirit to embrace it.  You are God; there is none like you!

Holy God,
thank you
for prized moments
revealing your presence.
Thank you
for the blessing
that comes
with faith.
Thank you
for joy
that fills up
and flows out.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Dearest God,

It is quiet except for the birdsong I can hear outside the kitchen window.  It is Sunday, a day when I shall gather with your family to pray, to sing, to worship, to hug, and to love.  It is a day when I know I will grow my faith.  Internally I will allow my heart to swell, my mind to learn, and my soul to open wide.  It is a day when I will meet you.

There is just something amazing about preparing myself to gather in your house.  I anticipate it.  I look forward to singing favorite songs.  I already sense the love friends will offer upon seeing me and others.  I enjoy opening myself and shaking out any cobwebs I have allowed to collect since last we met.  As I open the windows to my heart, I see the spirit breeze coming blowing gently upon me and I know our time has come once again and I am thankful.

Majestic God
so full
of love,
thank you
for sacred encounters
reminding me
I am yours.
Thank you
for counting me
as one
of your children.
Thank you
for your house
where I am
always welcome.
I offer you
my devotion
and praise.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Dearest God,

As I walk this earth, let me never forget you.  When I get busy, keep me mindful of your living spirit.  When I get confused or disoriented by life circumstances, keep my faith steady so I may continue to rely on you and be grateful.  Allow me to praise you through the challenges before me.

Sometimes life is difficult.  We worry and feel anxious when things go amiss.  As a wife, I worried about my husband.  As a mother I worried about my children.  As a pastor I worried about my flock.  As a grandmother I worried about my grandchildren.  As a friend, I worried about my companions.  Yet worry offers me nothing and keeps me forever anxious.

When I have my mind on you, when I breathe in the air of your presence, or when I trust in you, my worries settle because I know you have your eye on those I love.  I know you have their best interest in mind.  I know you will provide them the same love you give me.  I know you will inspire me to do what I can to help.  I know you will whisper your compassionate mercy to them through every means available.

As I go about this day, I pray I will continually give thanks for the promise of your presence in all circumstances.

Thank you,
Gracious God,
for faith
that keeps me
on my
spirit toes.
Thank you
for your
loving presence
that reminds me
to trust
in every way
and every situation.
May my words
and actions
give attestation
to my life
in you.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 17, 2013

Dear God,

Why do we cry out to you to do so much in our lives?  Why do we assume we need to prod you to be at work in the world?  Why do we jump on you when things do not go the way we want them?

Perhaps the dilemma is not about whether you are doing enough but rather are we.  If we believe you are a reality in the world, thus, we call on you, then why would we ask you to be close?  If we can acknowledge your existence, then we have to believe you are a living presence with us all the time.  You are always present.  Maybe what we need is a deeper awareness of your spirit in our midst.  Our prayer could be for a greater sense of you in daily life.

During times of great weakness in my own life, I have run to you like a frightened child.  Each time you scooped me up into your arms and held me close.  I did not have to ask you to hold me; you just did.  I believe you are always near.  When I feel out-of-sorts and distant, I do not have to check up on you.  I need to do a personal inventory.  Am I close?  Am I anticipating your presence all day long?  Am I looking for you?  Am I giving thanks?  Am I living and breathing my faith in God who is with me all the time?

As I write early this morning I already sense your nearness.  My heart is open to you.  My mind is searching for evidence of your coming.  My spirit is willing.  As I trust in you to do your part, I am grateful for the opportunity to do mine.

Thank you
for love
that awakens us
each morning
and puts us
to sleep
at night.
Thank you
for grace
that corrects
and heals.
Thank you
for the blessing
of awareness.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Dear God,

How can a song penetrate the human heart uncovering the soft spot of the soul?  How can it speak in ways that awaken the soul and move it to great joy?

Tonight at our church choir practice we sang a song arranged especially in honor of our pastor, choir director, and instrumentalists.  And Can It Be speaks of amazing love that piqued your desire to express your love on the cross.

Because there were 25 of us in a choir loft that really should only hold about 19 or 20, we were squeezed together but we sang as if there were 100 temporarily lifting the rafters because we were singing the tenets of our own personal faith.  We sang with all we had because we believed in what we were singing.  Touched by your amazing love so very many times in life, it seemed so natural to sing it out, to proclaim it, and to receive and give it.

My heart was so full that I kept on singing all the way home.

Glorious God,
you are
the author
of great joy.
You fill us up
with your
living presence
and then
pour us out
to the world.
You touch hearts
and open souls.
Thank you,
thank you,
thank you!

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Dear God,

A link with your living spirit connected strangers for just a few days more than 15 years ago.  We had each been drawn to Taize, France, a community of pilgrims exploring the things of God. From differing parts of the world, we shared a bit of our lives in small groups, in worship, and at meal times as we ate on the hillside.   We sensed your presence moving us closer in peace to you and one another.

A few years later my covenant group joined me for several days at Taize.  We saw your spirit moving again. We sang the music of faith, held our candle in the candlelight service, ate together at the heavenly banquet table and did menial tasks to help out.

In both instances we shared at the cross.  About five feet tall and beautifully hand-painted in bold South American style, it had been ceremonially placed on its back on the floor by the monks at the evening service so that all who would could come close.  As we waited for hours on our knees for a turn, I sensed we entered paradise.  Watching each person bow down with their foreheads touching the cross, we prayed and sang in four-part harmony the music of Taize.

I am remembering all that today as I was suddenly "found" on the Internet by a pilgrim in Spain with whom I shared my first time at Taize.  As she wrote me a brief note and I replied, my mind wandered back and I bathed once again in the spirit of the living God, with you, my Lord.  Grace, beautiful grace.

Thank you,
Gracious God,
for gifts
far and near.
Thank you
for your spirit
that is always
with us.
Thank you
for joy
that can
well up
with your spirit
all day long.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Dear God,

Your spirit is constantly moving touching us at times and places we don't expect.  Anytime can be a spirit event because your living presence is always with us.

Early in the morning as I sat on the cold hilly ground pulling thousands of tiny weeds I looked over my shoulder and saw a mirror reflection of the landscape on the other side of the river.  With the wind still, the sky blue, and few billowy white clouds in the sky I thought of the ways you cause us to see your reflection in the world and what a sight it is, a magnificent reflection of love, grace, and compassion.

I was taken by the beautiful scene before me and I thought how blessed I was to turn around at just that instant.  How I wish I was always attuned to your spirit so whenever you were moving I would be captured by it.

Breathe on me,
Living Spirit,
let the wind
of your love
move all
around me.
Bend my will
to yours.
Open my heart,
my eyes,
and my ears
so I
am ready,
poised for yet
another spirit moment.
Then allow me
to carry
your spirit joy
to others,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Monday, May 13, 2013

Dear God,

Why would I ever put anyone before you?  Why would I place my ultimate trust in hands made of the earth? Why would I pay homage to anyone else?

Yesterday as I sat in church with a packed crowd singing favorite hymns, I watched faces as they expressed their love for you.  I listened as faith was proclaimed song after glorious song.  I felt my own heart warm and spill over.  I realized once again there is no love like yours, no grace, no hope, no embrace.

As the worship service concluded, I walked out of the sanctuary with a delight and joy that no one else can provide.  I felt peace and an overwhelming gratitude.

Thank you
God of the Cosmos,
maker of heaven
and earth.
Thank you
for the gifts,
the many gifts
of your spirit.
Thank you
for touching my
life...again.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 12, 2013

My dearest God,

You create us to be family.  You intend for us to live together as family in this world.  Some of us have wonderful families who honor and respect us, affirm and support us and challenge us to become the full persons you want us to be.  But some families are not like that.  They do not understand your will.  Without these qualities, they flounder, fail, and fall. They want to be family but for reasons sometimes even beyond themselves they cannot. Where there are cracks in family you fill in with yourself.  You send people to befriend us, to reach out, and to make us a sister or brother.  You give us opportunity for adoption.  You create us anew restoring our sense of equilibrium, therefore, making us family once again.

Loving God,
you are
Heavenly Father
to us all.
Your love
moves beyond
our paltry boundaries.
You love
us all equally.
Teach us how
to be
good sisters
and brothers
on this planet.
Continue to
fill our cracks
with yourself
so we
can begin
to look
and act
more and more
like you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Dearest God,

Yesterday when the rain came to nourish the dry soil, I thought how good it was.  How glad the ground was as it soaked up every drop.  When I got up today every flower seemed to stand taller and more beautiful.

That's what you do to dry, thirsty souls, isn't it?  When we are parched and lifeless, you offer us water from heaven.  You pour your living spirit into us and then you call us to life.  As we drink it in, we realize how good your water tastes, sweeter than any other and how it restores us from the inside out.

Thank you,
Loving God,
for your generosity!
Thank you
for allowing us
to drink
from your well.
Thank you
for new life.

Love, Andrea

Friday, May 10, 2013

Dear God,

Compared to so many, I have an idyllic life.  I have a roof over my head, medicine in my cabinet, food in my refrigerator, people who love me, and faith that reminds me you are the giver of every gift.  But how can I live a happy life when there is pain, sorrow, and suffering in so many parts of the world?

As I watch the news I am constantly shocked by the depravity present in so many places.  Why do leaders kill their own people?  Why do parents sell their children?  Why do people torture one another?  I don't understand the mindset of those who do heinous crimes.

Are we all capable of evil?  Do we all have the capacity of making ourselves lords over others?  Could any of us in the right situation crawl out of our "nice" shell and become something venomous?

How do we stem the tide of evil, O Lord?  How do we rise to the occasion to love our brother and sister wherever they live and whoever they are?  How do we extend a hand, bread, and love instead of a fist, a stone, and hatred?

You are the great answer, O Lord; you did not create this world so we could hurt one another.  You created a world where we are each responsible to care for others; yet there are many who want for food, clean water, and tender care.  Until we care for basic needs for all, how can we expect to live in love?

Teach us
the way
of love,
O God.
When we forget
whose we are,
we often
strike out
at others.
We blame,
judge, and steal.
We wound
and injure.
Evil comes
to life.
Only your kind
of love
can conquer
the enemy
of evil
in each
one of us.
Wash us clean,
renew a
right spirit
within us.
Pour your
life-giving water
into us.
Give us
spiritual food
to eat.
Nourish us
with your spirit
so we
may come
to life,
and love,
and faith,
I pray.
Teach us
to share
the gifts
of life,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Dearest God,

Sometimes we never know what lies hidden until we begin the process of clearing away.  If we never start clearing, we will miss the treasure.

My husband finally joined me in Maine.  Although it had rained all day and the grass was wet, I walked him out into the sanctuary garden because he had not seen it yet this year.  When he turned the corner along the path, he stepped over to what I simply call the table.  "I had no idea this was so beautiful back here.  You can see the river in both directions."  I was delighted.

It was just a few years ago when the woods was a thicket, too ominous to explore, overgrown and dangerous with holes in the ground and old objects littered across the land.  But when you invited me to partner with you in its recovery, things began to change and what a spiritual adventure it has been.

I realized we can go a whole lifetime and never discover the treasure that awaits us.  But if we are willing and able, if we take the chance and do the work, joy will meet us.

Surprising God,
thank you
for unexpected challenges
that lead us
to you
and even
to the
deepest part
of ourselves.
You are God;
there is none
like you.
You urge us
to take risks
that can
guide us
to wondrous places.
Give us courage
to trust you
and then
a voice
to declare
your praise.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Dear God,

What a beautiful surprise when spring violets suddenly appear in the yard, white, purple, and white with purple.  Always one of my favorite flowers, I am always delighted when they surface and bloom.

Surprises, you have so many for us.  Just when we think life is a certain way you surprise us.  If we are living in darkness, it comes as light.  If despair, it comes as hope.  If we are simply living a colorless existence, you come as color, bright beautiful colors that warm and wrap the soul.

You have surprised me countless times with healing, new perspective, understanding, grace, and even miracles.  Each time I knew where the surprises came from and always, always, I was overwhelmed with joy.  Part of that joy stems from the fact that you stretch my mind and soul by showing me how life can be different than the way I am living it or just moving through it.  Your surprises are better than any other.

Good God,
so full
of love
for your children,
thank you
for your
multitudinous blessings.
Thank you especially
for your
wondrous surprises.
Make my heart
sing your praise
every day,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Dear God,

Early this morning I clicked on a video of a high school choir singing Amazing Grace and I started to sing.  As I mopped the upstairs floors on my hands and knees, I sang the song again and again and again.  Before long I felt my soul swell with thanksgiving.  I probably sang it 15 times.  That's a lot of grace before breakfast.

I realized it doesn't take much to keep a soul on track when we turn to you first thing in the morning.  When we sing out the words of our faith, we are reinforcing the well of our faith.  We are strengthening the walls that sometimes begin to crumble and collapse when life hits hard and we have not tended to keeping our structure in good form.  But when we begin our day with you we are doing exactly what we need to do in order to have a solid well in which the fountain of your living water can constantly flow.

Thank you
for overwhelming me
with grace
this morning.
Thank you
for reminding me
of my responsibility
to keep
my well
in good shape
so your water
can stay fresh
and full.

Love always, Andrea

Monday, May 6, 2013

Dear God,

Oh, to follow your divine rhythm!  Oh, to take your lead.  Oh, to reveal evidence of your coming!

Last fall I planted 75 half dead plants and 275 bulbs.  Then they looked like a tired bunch.  There was nothing to tell me in the spring they would overcome and rise right on time.  But so far they are riding the wave of re-creation.  The tall, statuesque yellow daffodils that have been standing strong for nearly three weeks look like miniature trumpets ready to sound your glory.  The tulips are just hours from unfolding showing off their crimson colors.  Before long delicate bleeding hearts will bloom and lean forward in pink and white.  All over our woods spring is arriving just as expected.

Oh, to say the same thing of your people.  How I want to live in that divine rhythm!  How I want to take your lead and stop stepping on your toes!  How I too want to give proof that I am in you and you are in me. How I want to come to new life, show off your colors, sing your song, and shout out your praise.  I want to move to the cadence of eternity's sound.  I want to be a testimonial to your living presence in the world!

Move us, Lord,
inspire us
to move
with you.
Attune us
to your
divine call.
Help us
sound off
the word
of faith,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Dearest God,

I watched as the orange ball slowly rose in the early morning sky, a steamy mist kissed the river, and the lemon yellow forsythia bush swayed gently in the breeze.   With profound gratitude I gave thanks in the daily spirit rhythm of the Maine landscape.  It was Sunday, a day to allow my soul to drink in the goodness of your life among your people.

Some time later I made my way to church remembering to give thanks along the drive.  As the choir director put her hands to the organ, the melody came rising up into the sanctuary, and the choir began to sing, I sensed we joined heaven's angels and saints.  Surely paradise is like this, I told myself.

I watched from the choir loft as people started arriving.  So happy were they to be there.  But I missed my sweet little couple that always arrives early and sits in the third pew just to listen to the choir rehearse.  Married for sixty two years they exhibit a kind of godly loyalty to you and one another.  I am blessed just to see them.  But when she walked in without him, our choir director told us Al had died just a few hours earlier.  A silence fell upon us as we each one grieved the loss of our friend.

Throughout the service I gazed upon the congregation, a two-year-old boy reverently touching the stained glass window, two women squeezing in to sit by the new widow, a happy couple moving as one toward the front to partake of the holy meal, and an elderly, bent-over widow throwing me a kiss acknowledging my return to the church.  As the choir stood to sing Christ Liveth in Me I realized what an honor it is to be with you in your house and to proclaim our faith in song.

On the drive home along the same route I took two hours earlier, I stared at all the springtime color and whispered my love to you.

Generous God,
thank you
for the privilege
of being
the church,
flawed, broken,
and imperfect,
yet, beautiful,
loving, and caring.
Thank you
for the glory
so present
when you
are near.
What joy,
what peace,
what utter delight!

Love, Andrea

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Dear God,

Together we cut and dragged, cut and dragged, cut and dragged.  Dead trees, strangling vines, and living invasive trees threatened the whole woods so five years ago my spiritual friend and I envisioned what a living sanctuary would look like.  Although she has a top level job that keeps her on the go, she gets in the woods when she can.  But yesterday she decided to work from home so we got out early and began our task.  Little by little the picture we saw in our minds started to unfold.  What a vision of loveliness!

The more we cleared, the greater our vision took hold.  Fran discovered an ancient apple tree even though disfigured by decades of neglect and pounded by Nor'Easter winds the tree has withstood the passing of time.  Refusing to die, it stands in the middle of the fruit orchard we had planned.  What a joy to find evidence of your dream right in the place where apples, peaches, and other fruit trees will grow.

Today the sanctuary garden taught me a valuable lesson.  Unless we clear a path for your spirit in our souls, anything will take root and take over.  No dream will be realized in its fullness because we will not be able to see clearly.  However, when we realize that dreams are made of eternity resources and we say yes to living your dream for our lives, anything can become a living reality, a spectacular one because your dream is always extraordinary.

Teach us
to envision
your dream
for our lives,
Majestic God.
Then give us
the wherewithal
to actualize
the dream,
to take steps
toward accomplishing
your work,
and then
praising you
for your
your loving grace
in our world.

Love always, Andrea

Friday, May 3, 2013

Dearest God,

Neglect.  Neglect opens the door to rubbish.  Neglect weakens the good often allowing for invasive undergrowth to destroy healthy roots.  Neglect can make the most beautiful ugly.  As I listen to your spirit speak in the woods, I can see what more than 100 years of neglect has done to the once lovely river-front woods.  Now it is our task to clear, rip up, take down, and plant giving hope and beauty once again.

As I lopped, sawed, and dragged invasive trees out of the woods and into the burn pile, I thought of the times you have done the same kind of work in my soul.  When I tended to other matters, when I neglected feeding my soul with prayer, trust, and faith, and when I turned my heart and mind away from you, deadly beliefs began to take root.  When I failed to believe you were the power to help me overcome, I fell victim to weakness and self pity.  When I did not drink from your living water well, I became dry and listless.  When I did not take in spiritual food, I lost my strength.  But you rescued me.  You held me in your arms.  You fed me nourishing food from your table.  You infused me with loving grace.  You healed me and set me back on the path of life.

Thank you,
O God,
for the opportunity
to restore
and renew.
Thank you
for the belief
that nothing,
no one
is totally lost.
Nothing is beyond
your loving help.
Thank you too
for the delight
I find
in partnering
with you
in the
creative process
of life.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, May 2, 2013

My dearest God,

The more I follow you, the more I listen, the more I operate from your divine plan, the more joy I experience in daily life.  I see more, I hear more, I enjoy more, and I receive the blessing of having danced with you.

As I work in my sanctuary garden, the more I realize you had a plan for this plot of land a long time ago.  I am simply working with you in your garden.  When I rid the soil of tangling roots, when I rake away the dead of winter, when I put my spade in the ground to plant, I feel the pleasure of fulfilling your dream.  As I uncover tiny stems reaching for heaven from their burial ground, I know new life once again.

The closer I am to the ground, the more I recognize my need to work more closely with you.  I want to learn every dance step.  I don't want to stumble and fall or even worse miss a step.  When I place my whole self in your hands, I am confident all of me will move with all of you.  What more could I want in life?

Lead me,
Gracious God,
lead me
in the dance
of life.
Show me
the way.
Guide me,
I pray.
Let me become
a blessing
to you.
Let me reveal
your glory
in the world.

Love always, Andrea

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Dearest God,

I love the morning singing!  Even as I awaken before 5:00 a.m. I hear the birds stirring, their song ready to be sung.  As I tune in to the new day, I listen.  Different birds singing their unique songs.  So happy are they in springtime!

How much do I miss when I fail to tune in to your world around me?  How much happens that I never get to experience because I am not on your same channel?  How many miracles occur that I do not witness because I am too focused elsewhere?

When I really set myself on your course, when I prepare myself for your presence, when I await your coming, I am filled with gratitude because I see life in bold color.  I hear the song of the ages.  I experience the joy of life around me.  Sunrises and sunsets begin and end my day reminding me of your promise to be with us every day.  As plants and bulbs begin to emerge from the soil, I realize what can materialize when we move into your sacred rhythm.  Life is good when I place myself in your jet stream riding on the wind of your spirit.

As I go about my day, help me join in the singing.  Help me add joy to the world.  Help me act out of gratitude.  Help me live out of faith.

I pray
this morning
thinking of you,
Wondrous God.
Forgive me
when I think
of myself first.
Give me
the wherewithal
to join
your eternal cadence.
Make me
your own,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Dear God,

I met you on my hands and knees just as the spiritual path turned in the woods.  It was at that vantage point I saw the glass, green, brown, and white lodged in the center of the tall Norway Maple tree.  How in the world?  I asked myself.  A closer look reminded me of the way this land was used as a dump by the former owners a hundred years ago.  Where else were they to put their trash, broken glass, and other debris?

As I sat studying the tree I was troubled.  No tree should have glass in it, I thought.  I felt pain so I took my garden tool and started hammering away in the very small inner space of the tree.  Some pieces shattered and fell into the dirt.  I picked them up and threw them in my debris bucket.  But try as I may I could not get it all.  On the one side right in the middle was a layer of glass about 1/4" deep permanently lodged. The tree had simply grown around it. Tears fell and so I quietly wept and prayed.

Although I was distressed by the condition of the tree, I realized it brought to mind one of my grandchildren who is hurting so much right now.  I thought of her and her pain.  I came to the realization suffering is part of life.  We may do our part to help but some pain is very deep and will always be with us.  However, what the tree taught me was we have the ability to adapt.  We can forge a life around our pain.  We can trust in you to  reshape us in ways perhaps we could not without the pain that has come our way.

And so I did not want the tree to be lost among the other trees.  I prayed for it and what I found just inches away was a heartstone so I put it by the site of the wound.  I went inside the house and found a wooden replica of a monk in prayer.  I carried him outside and put him by the tree.  My friend planted a bleeding heart plant nearby.  I hope some day when a pilgrim walks the spiritual path they will take comfort in their pain and know you are with them and that they will know somewhere in the world a spiritual person is praying for the cosmos and all her children and find hope and peace.

You are
a good
and loving God.
You show us
the way
to peace.
Teach us
to trust you
particularly when
we suffer.
Remind us
of our
inner ability
to renew
our life
with your help.
Help us
exchange tragedy
for renewal,
I pray.

Love, Andrea