Monday, July 15, 2013

Dear God,

Weeds so tall, so deeply rooted in clay, I finally acknowledged my forgetfulness as the cause of a real disaster in my contemplative garden.  The only contemplation came as I considered the danger of soil that opens the way for weeds to grow, to fight for space among the flowers, and to finally conquer.  As I frantically tried to rid the garden of the real tall bad weeds many nearly as tall as me, I realized there was no possibility to clear the area, to redeem the beauty, and to save some of my plants.  I was very sad especially because it was time to leave and I would not return until fall.  I had to leave it behind and let the rubbish thrive.

As I wept a few tears, I considered the spiritual life lesson in the garden.  Spiritual soil that is neglected and forgotten will turn up many unwanted weeds, some so deadly they will kill the wonders of the human soul if not attended to.  They will threaten other areas of life because weeds and flowers grow together.  Even if we recognize what is happening and we start plucking the troublesome debris, we will inadvertently pull up some good and we will have to replant.  The whole process will take time, energy, attention, strength, and courage.  We will have to live and work in hope trusting our desire for your will to carry us through.

Forgive us,
O Lord,
when we fail
to attend
to the gifts
you give us.
Forgive us,
Dear Friend,
when we fail
to love
what you provide.
Forgive us,
Great Comforter,
when we
fail you.
Thank you
for your grace,
compassion, and mercy.
Renew us
for this
new day.
Keep our eye
on the prize
of your
living presence
so we
may begin
again.

Love, Andrea