Sunday, December 15, 2013

Dear God,

This morning as I sat in the church pew with nearly 50 others, the lights were out except for the burning Advent candles.  The pianist played soft hymns as we awaited the beginning of the Mass.  As I knelt down on the kneeling bench, I had the deep awareness of your spirit in the congregation.  I quietly prayed giving thanks as the cold, wintry winds blew outside.  Minutes later the lights slowly brightened and it was as if Christmas had arrived, the darkness being taken over by the bright light of faith.

I believe that is what happens when we pray.  Often we begin in a place of darkness with a heaviness of worry, anxiety, or concern on our hearts.  Our souls may be mired in worrisome troubles caused by ill health, economic issues, or even global problems.  Yet, as we begin to pray, softly calling your name, we find ourselves mysteriously comforted, hope arising out of fear, and the light does come radiating a heavenly warmth.  Faith reaches round and the light engulfs us.  We breathe it in, our lungs, minds, hearts, and spirits breathing deeper.  A quiet joy enters in and like this morning in the sanctuary, we stand to give praise.

Holy God,
so deserving
of our praise,
love, and devotion,
thank you
for both
the darkness
and the light.
Thank you
for grace
and faith
that challenge us.
Thank you
for beautiful moments
such as
the one
in church
this morning.
I am grateful.

Love, Andrea