Saturday, January 24, 2015

Dearest God,

As we worked, we heard the sound of church bells.  We paused and listened.  Church bells, the sound of faith, of your living presence, and merciful love for all people.

Ten years ago I made a fresh trek of faith with you.  Awarded a sum of money for a clergy renewal leave, I traveled for three and a half months.  During that time I heard the sound of church bells pealing in New Mexico, France, Italy, and England.  Seemingly everywhere I turned, I heard the sound of church bells.  My heart and soul drew in the sound allowing it to stir and inspire me to faith.  I welcomed those bells because daily my faith grew.  I felt your wondrous love.  I knew your grace.

Church bells motivate us to stop, to consider your compassion for weary souls, to receive the fresh blessing of mercy, and to step into the future with hope, peace, and joy.

Thank you
for unwarranted gifts.
Nothing we do
makes us worthy
of such love;
yet, Father,
you give them.
Make us
worthy recipients
of grace
so we
may ring bells
of faith
for others.

Love, Andrea