Friday, March 31, 2017

Dearest God,

Your ways are not our ways; your way is always better.  Today you came into the assisted living unit and offered a miracle.  You know that old, yucky stuff tucked away in the dark corners of the soul is not meant to be there permanently.  You want to rid us of unforgiveness, resentment, and bitterness.  You want to cleanse our soul, freeing us from all that burdens us, holding us down from a life of joy and faith. 

I did not expect “D” to appear before me.  The last time I saw him was more than 30 years ago.  He had engaged in some shady dealings including fraud and wound up in jail.  He hurt his family deeply and in time the family fell apart leaving my cousin to divorce and live a painful life.  I always held him responsible for many of the crazy decisions my cousin made in her insecurity.

 

"D" and I hugged in the hallway as we visited together in the facility where my cousin is now with stage 4 frontal lobe dementia.  As we caught up with one another, you came to me, whispered in my ear, and for once I followed your lead and shared with him something he did not know.  Tears flooded his eyes and he took hold of me hugging me real hard saying, "Thank you so much for that gift."

 

What happened at that moment was no less than a miracle.  My resentment dissolved, forgiveness taking its place.  Relief, release, and grace appeared on his face and I suspect he received a miracle too.

 

How beautiful

are your ways,

O Lord.

Thank you

for your

kind compassion.

Thank you

for cleansing

two souls today.

 

Love, Andrea

Thursday, March 30, 2017

Dear God,

Eucharist.  Eucharist, the sweet taste of heaven.  Every time we feel our heart warmed, our soul filled, our mind shifted, our gratitude increased, and our faith inspired, we taste heavenly manna.  Each and every moment is a priceless moment with the one eternal God, you, our Lord, you.

Eucharist is so much more than communion elements.  It is a moment of faith, a time of dwelling with God Most High, a challenge to rise up, a measure of mercy, a blessing of grace.  When we step forward, open our mouths, and receive the divine gifts we are being given the best you have to offer. 

Eucharist happens when we recognize our sin and feel the rush of spirit wind blow upon our face, a sign of your presence with us.  Eucharist occurs when we take your challenge, operate from the courage you give us, and walk forward with strength from on high.  Eucharist comes when we sense we are in a holy place and we are inspired to be silent, to listen for your voice, and to pray.  Eucharist blesses us when we yearn for heaven's answer to our problem.  Eucharist fills us when we stop what we are doing and move toward doing your will.

Eucharist, so much more.

Blessed Lord,
thank you
for the gift
of Eucharist.
Help us recognize
when we
are in
your presence.
Help us
become aware
when we
are experiencing
a holy moment
with you.

Love always, Andrea

Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Dear God,

There is such unrest in our world!  We look all around us wondering who we can trust.  Anxiety, anger, and fear find their way into our souls.  Sometimes we even resign ourselves to hopelessness and despair. 

But you, O Lord, you offer much more than the world!  You promise us your living presence, a quiet, calming presence who can take away our anxiety replacing it with hope, comfort, and peace.  You direct us to green pastures and waterfalls of living water.  You invite us to lie down in peaceful bliss.  You give us pure, clean water to drink to quench our unforgiving thirst.  You provide a gentle hand on our shoulder and renewed strength for our step.  We begin to rise up, to breathe in courage, and to walk steady for we know you are with us every step of the way.  You whisper, "Trust in me, lean on me, walk with me."  When we allow our faith to awaken every part of our sleeping soul, we find what we need for every day living.  All that is left to do is praise and give thanks.

We are yours,
O Lord,
help us never
to forget.
You are
a kind
and compassionate God
who cares
for all children;
for we
are all
your children.
May you
be blessed forevermore.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Dear God,

Sweet reunions, you give us sweet reunions with people precious in our lives.  You weave our lives together, in and out.  Sometimes those loving reunions are face-to-face where together we can hug, smile, laugh, remember, and reflect upon times when our lives were closer.

Last night I was surprised to see one of my former confirmands, a young woman who now is a social worker.  Over dinner we talked about the past, a time when we shared a journey of faith.  How blessed we were for a hour as we recalled funny, serious, and meaningful times together.

On other occasions reunions happen in our dreams when unexpectedly loving family members, friends, and even strangers return to us and we relive happy and even challenging moments.  We see their faces, feel their touch, and hear their voices.  We are filled with joy overflowing.

When we pause long enough to consider how faith works, we soon realize how your spirit is active in our lives and the lives of others.  We can see your hand at work, your love in action, and your power redeeming and reshaping us.  We acknowledge the way you draw us close to you and to others who have appeared in our life.  We confess you are the source of our joy.

Blessed God,
thank you
for reunions
that bless
a second,
third, and fourth time.
Thank you
for memories
that come
to life
once again.
Thank you
for drawing us back
to each other.
Glory to you, Lord,
glory to you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, March 27, 2017

Dear God,

Every day is a fresh new opportunity to explore the depths of faith.  Each new day is a chance to meet the God of our faith.  Every day is a day to walk with the creator of faith.

Yesterday was just such a day, only I did not have to look far.  I simply gathered with the community of faith at Second Presbyterian Church.  There faith was revealed.  Inspiration came almost immediately as the Indianapolis Men's Chorus sang Bright Morning Stars, a traditional Appalachia Song.  "Bright morning stars are rising: Day is a-breaking in my soul.  O where are our dear fathers?  They are down in the valley praying.  Day is a-breaking in my soul.  O where are our dear mothers?  They have gone to heaven shouting, Day is a-breaking in my soul.  O where are our dear children?  They're upon the earth a-dancing Day is a-breaking in my soul." 

In that song your spirit whispered, "Where are the people who prayed for you all your seven decades?  My heart warmed as I remembered those faithful people, a grandmother, a friend of the family, a Sunday School teacher, a pastor, a next-door neighbor, my mother's friends, my aunt and cousins, on and on faces were revealed as I wept and gave thanks.  I know what it means that day is a-breaking in my soul!

Heavenly Father,
Blessed God,
thank you
for the gift
of memory,
for prayers prayed,
for mercy given,
for grace imparted.
Thank you
for all those
who cared
through prayer.
Bless them, Lord,
bless them
for their
many gifts,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, March 26, 2017

Dear God,

Thank you for the gift of Lent, the time of examination, evaluation, and conversion.  Thank you for all blessed times when we must pause to reflect, to stand close to you, to listen, to repent, to find hope, to take courage, and to be transformed and transforming.  Only when we stop and realize we need to assess life and the way we are living it can we ever find our way to reformation, reconstruction, and renewal.

You come to us most often in the gentle breeze of your spirit.  Sometimes when we are busy or distracted, it takes a storm to get our attention.  However you come to us, Lord, we know it is time to lay down our distractions, sit quietly, and be alone with our Maker.  May your find us ready, willing, and able.

Heavenly Father,
how good
you are
to us.
How you
bless us
with a conscience,
moral character,
and a desire
to purify ourselves.
Although we
are smudged,
smeared with sin
and unforgiveness,
you still come
with grace
and mercy.
Let Lent
do its work
on us,
we pray.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, March 25, 2017

Dear God,

Spring comes around every year to remind us of our need to grow, to flourish, to bud, to blossom, and to produce fruit.  When we sit long enough to watch the amazing wonders of spring, we can't help but realize all this beauty is not just about beautifying the world but also about growing faith, building up a healthy spiritual life, transforming ourselves, increasing our desire to help others, and adding more goodness, grace, and love to the world.

The season of spring can come and go leaving us with a sense of awe and wonderment.  However, if we miss the cues for our own growth and what we can contribute to the world around us, we fail to receive the full meaning of springtime.  When we hear the birds sing, you want us to sing too.  When the flowers finally burst open in all their colorful raiment, you want us to do the same so others will be drawn to the beauty of you in us.  May we grow for you, Ever-Loving Creator!

Thank you,
Gracious God,
for the season
of spring.
Thank you
for all
its tiny messages.
Thank you
for the chance
to grow again.

Love, Andrea

Friday, March 24, 2017

Dear God,

Last night your spirit was so powerfully present at Mendelssohn's Concerto in E Minor for Violin and Orchestra Op. 64 concert!  As musicians took their seats and began to tune their instruments, there was the sense that something magnificent was about to happen.  When the guest violinist, Simone Porter, and guest conductor, Matthew Halls, stepped into the sanctuary applause erupted.  My granddaughter had selected our seats, the second pew to the right where we would be able to overlook the bass and cello section.  As a bass player in sixth grade she wanted to be up close and personal.

From the moment the first notes were played the concert could only be described as sublime.  We rose and fell with each note.  Although I did not know the history of the concerto, I did experience the spiritual power so very evident in Mendelssohn's mind as he composed this great piece of music. We could not lift ourselves from the pew fast enough to wildly applaud the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, violinist, and conductor.

I realized, at least for me, the applause was for you, your creative spirit, and the mystical joy so present through the music.  Tears formed several times as the music flowed from your hand.  I just want to say thank you, Lord, thank you!

Glory to you,
Lord of creation.
Thank you
for your
living spirit
that wows us
over and
over again.
Thank you
for the
wondrous beauty
you bring
to earth.
May we
sing your praise
forever!

Love, Andrea

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Dearest God,

Your people hurt.  They hurt from war, senseless attacks, poverty, oppression, and injustice.  So many bleed, O Lord.  I used to pray for all those entrusted to help their own people, like government, business, and industry leaders.  In my prayers I placed the responsibility square on their shoulders.  But then you spoke to me and my prayers changed.  Now I pray for all those who bleed and all those who can comfort the bleeding.

We are all responsible to aid those who bleed, aren't we, Lord.  We can all assist someone who is down.  Wherever we are with whatever we have, we can aid those who are hurting.  Yes, it is the responsibility of leaders but it is our responsibility as well.

You call us children, your children and as father, you tell us to love one another.  You do not place the responsibility on leaders alone; you ask all of us to take care of one another.  As long as we expect others to do the job of tender care, not many will be helped.  Show us the way, O Lord, show us the way.

Blessed Father,
thank you
for reminders
that we
are all family.
We are
to care
for one another.
Help us
to reach out,
to take hold,
and to bless
one another.
Thank you
for the
countless times
others' hands,
representing your own,
held us.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Dearest God,

Thank you for the spiritual pull, that tug upon the human heart, mind, and soul.  Every time we feel that tug, we know you are speaking to us.

How times have you pulled us from despair?  From doubt?  From fear?  So many times.  How often have you pulled us toward faith, that wondrous awareness of Holy Spirit power and love?  Your pull is a constant reminder of love that will not let us go.  In those holy moments we know we are yours, children of the Heavenly Father.

All glory
to you,
Gracious God;
for you
have touched
our lives
with your
spiritual touch.
Thank you
for glorious moments
of fellowship,
communion, and holiness
that help us
see you.
Bless you
for your goodness.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Dear God,

During morning devotions you reminded me how many times your compassion and kindness has healed.  You showed how your mercy has power to penetrate the deepest wound and bring warm healing to it.  I think of countless people I know where your presence, your living presence made its way into souls and there you ministered. 

We need to begin every new day with praise and thanksgiving, for you, O Lord, have blessed us.  You have healed us and poured your oil of gladness over us.  You have welcomed us into your life and made us family.  You have breathed the air of your spirit into us and you have led us to the well of living water.  You have resurrected us from the abyss and taken us to the light.  Who could not give thanks?

Bless you,
Heavenly Father,
for the
wondrous gifts
of your spirit.
Thank you
for the
extravagant gifts
of your
holy compassion
heavenly mercy.
Thank you
for healing us.

Love, Andrea

Monday, March 20, 2017

Dear God,

At worship yesterday the orchestra played Be Still, My Soul.  At one point the flute played a tiny solo and it was beautiful.  I thought how each instrument, the clarinet, French horn, trombone, and more were lovely on their own, so unique, carefully crafted, with majestic capabilities, their sounds heavenly.  Yet, the greater beauty was the sounds they made together as one group.

We are like them.  We are uniquely created, each with our own gifts, talents, and abilities.  Alone we are your creation, beautiful in your eyes.  However, when we are together we are something extraordinary.

You remind us how we are part and parcel of one another.  On this planet we need each other.  We have something to offer, provide one another.  When we act as one community loving and caring for each other, we are so much more than when we act alone.

So much do we need to love and respect one another for our own unique creation.  We need to see the value in each and every soul.  We need to regard one another for the exquisite value we are.  We need to see what you see and do what you do, blessing others with the very gifts you have given us.

Blessed God,
to you
all glory
is given.
Everything, everyone
you make
is supremely beautiful.
May we honor
all your creation.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, March 19, 2017

Dear God,

If I were to write about me, there would be nothing to say.  But writing about you gives me so much to share with the world.  You are God, our refuge and strength, our rock of ages, our savior, teacher, and friend.

How blessed we are to be called your children!  What rich faith you give us to sustain that relationship!  Holy is your name, Father!

Every day you gift us with your living presence.  You give us the right to call you Abba, Father.  You make yourself known to us through your people, nature, every-day occurrences, prayer, meditation, and holy silence.  You draw us to your well of living water.  You feed us with manna from heaven.  You invite us to walk with you.  You keep us close.  You fill us with joy and show us the way to praise. 

Thank you,
Holy Father,
for blessing
upon blessing.
Thank you
for your spirit
that dwells
with us.
Thank you
for making us family.

Your child, Andrea

Saturday, April 18, 2017

Dear God,

Thank you for the Lenten journey.  Thank you for the nudges, pokes, and pushes of faith.  Thank you for returning us to the path of real life.

We need Lent.  We need to step back on the pilgrimage of faith.  We need to acknowledge we are yours, companions on the way, and seekers.  We need to make our way to the place where faith was awakened in our souls.  We need to draw close to you.

As we look at Jesus, his relationships, his ministry, his love and his challenges to those around him so long ago, we find ourselves in the midst of his stories.  We ask questions.  Do I believe this man?  Do I want to follow him?  Do I want to serve?  Do I want to live the life of faith?  Do I want to love with the same kind of love?  If so, where do I need to repent and turn around?  We need to ask ourselves these questions.  These are Lenten questions.  Thank you for them.

Bless you,
O Lord,
for setting us
on your path.
Thank you
for telling us
the truth
of ourselves.
Thank you
for pointing us
in the
right direction.

Love, Andrea

Friday, March 17, 2017

Dear God,

This morning my devotional reading challenged me to reflect back upon times of close encounters with you, moments when you rescued me from the muddy deep, times when you saved me from faulty thinking, and extravagant happenings when you gave miracles, answers to prayer, and healings.  You took me back to the early beginnings of tender faith and then whisked me through decades of events of your living presence changing and transforming.  Suffice it to say, there have been thousands of amazing opportunities spent with you in blessed transformation.

How often do we need changing, O Lord?  Every day we need change.  When our thinking is spoiled by prejudice, jealousy, or bitterness, we need to alter our thoughts, beliefs, and convictions.  When our behavior turns ugly, we need confession to rid our souls of darkness.  When we turn away from helping our neighbor, reaching out to those in need, and giving to the poor in whatever way it manifests itself, we need a shaking up.  Transformation is the only answer to our dilemma.

This Lenten morning you gave me the chance to give thanks and mean it.

Loving God,
thank you
for mercy
that turns us
toward you.
Thank you
for your
active hand
that changes us.
Thank you
for love
beneath it all.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Dear God,

You send us many voices of faith!  A sunrise, a bible verse, a song, a simple gesture of love, an act of forgiveness, and a prayer spoken on our behalf are all voices of faith.  They comfort, help, and inspire. If we start our day with any of these, we ground ourselves in faith and are given the opportunity to inspire someone else.

This morning as I sat in our writing room reading my devotional books, a chapter from the gospel of John, and read the history and sang a hymn of old, I realized you were grounding me for the day.  I never really thought about it that way; however, you brought your gift to mind. I acknowledged how I need grounding each day.  To start the morning with you galvanizes my faith, blesses my heart, and clears out the clutter in my soul.  It reminds me to keep you first so that I can look through the lens of faith every day.

What boggles my mind is this:  I am no one special.  I have done nothing to earn your kindness.  Yet, in your mercy, you speak to me, plant my feed in faith daily, and set me on life's journey.  What blessing!  What joy!

Gracious God,
Redeemer and Friend,
thank you
for your
compassionate guidance.
Thank you
for your
tender care.
Thank you
for all
the voices
of faith
that touch
my life.
On your behalf,
help me
touch others,
I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Dear God,

This morning as I read my devotions you spoke to me.  As I reflected upon a person who I think has sinned toward someone I love, I realized you were allowing that person to point to my own sin.  It was really a turn about situation, one that I did not necessarily welcome, but one that during this Lent I need to see.

It is easy to see the sin in someone else.  It is much more difficult to see the log in our own eye.  So, you use those we dislike to speak to our own core of offenses.  How humbling it is; for you know how important and valuable it is for us to deal with our own dark side.  Your desire is for us to make space for the light in every part of our lives.  You know the benefit of clearing our souls of sin, making things right, and letting the light shine.  Your love points the way because you know the rewards that come when we follow your lead.

Forgiving God,
thank you
for directing us
to you.
Thank you
for every prayer
that connects us
with you.
Thank you
for your
cleansing power.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Dear Lord,

I finally caught up in my letters to you.  That bout of surgery, complications, and trial set me back.  I simply could not muster enough energy to write.  Yet, at the same time you ministered to me, speaking softly your words of compassion, comfort, and peace.

When we are vulnerable, unwell, or at risk in some way, we feel helpless, unable to do what we need to do.  We begin to fear, to wander, and to doubt.  However, you always come to us, wherever we find ourselves and in whatever state we are in.  You bless us with gentle breezes of your spirit.  You want us to know you are with us. 

Gracious God,
you are
so good
to us.
You never
leave us,
nor forsake us.
Like a
loving parent,
you huddle
close by.
Thank you,
thank you
so much.

Love, Andrea

Monday, March 13, 2017

Dear God,

You call us to your side.  You invite us in.  You ask us to follow you.  Sometimes simple encounters speak volumes.

For days I wanted to get outside, to begin the fall and winter cleanup, to rake, pick up branches and limbs, to prune, and clear away but it has been cold, in the twenties and thirties.  This morning I just felt compelled to dress in layers and move outside.  Although it was cold, I felt your presence as soon as I stepped outside.  The birds were singing.  The oriental grasses were gently swaying to the spirit breeze.  The earth seemed to be calling for a clearing.  For an hour and a half I worked and what joy I felt.  I only stepped back inside when the snow began falling.

That time with you filled me with joy.  I prayed, sang aloud, and smiled a lot.  I realized that the simple call to do outdoor work was the call for sweet communion and how sweet it was!

Thank you,
Holy Father,
for our time
together today.
Thank you
for joy
that emanates
out of
knowing you.
Thank you
for sweet times
with you alone.
Thanks for
the call.
Bless you;
glory to your name!

Love, Andrea

Sunday, March 12, 2017

Dear God,

Who can turn away from you?  Who can want anyone else but you, O Lord; for you alone offer saving hope, radiant light, and warm blessings.

Sometimes we isolate ourselves, step away from those who can help us.  We slip back believing that being alone will aid us in our path of difficulty.  But really we need our heavenly father's hand.  We need your presence to help us see the truth.  We need your comfort in order to find the hope you offer.  When we turn to you, dropping the veil, what blessing comes to assist us in our way back.

Forgive us, dear Father, when we reject you, when we hold back, and when we do not listen.  Our selfish behavior is just a symptom of our insecurity, our fear, and our sense of vulnerability.  Like children we desperately need a holy parent's love.

Thank you,
Wondrous God,
for your
loving mercy.
Thank you
for never
forgetting us.
Thank you
for your
tender care
even when
we turn away.
Bless you
for blessing us.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Dear God,

You know we need change.  You know we need transformation.  You know what change and transformation can do to us.

Several weeks ago I learned a shocking truth. It was hard to take in.  At the same time it involved someone I love very much.  I knew it would require alteration on my part.  I asked for your help.  Little by little you shifted my thinking from denial to resistance to acceptance.  I knew what was at stake so you helped me find my way. Today for the first time we were able to talk, to be real, and to reflect upon the future.

Oftentimes if we do not change, we lose people we love.  They just slip away from us.  But because you make family to love one another, you show us the way to be transformed so as transforming agents we can be about your work of loving one another and building a better future.

Thank you,
Wise God,
for stretching us,
for growing us,
for helping us.
Thank you
for grace
that makes
all things possible.
Thank you
for love
that covers
all things.

Love, Andrea

Friday, March 10, 2017

Dear God,

The gifts of Lent are many. You give us Lent in the springtime where it seems everything around us reminds us to grow, to surrender, and to trust.  You speak your word, the stories of old that teach us faith and courage.  You sing to us such beautiful songs that tell us of you, your faithfulness, and wondrous grace.  You point to our weakness and show us how to become strong.  You prove your love to us once again.

When we live daily lives of faith, we are always awestruck by what we see and hear, taste, and touch. The simplest things can tell us a story of you.  How blessed we are when we acknowledge your presence in our lives.  Your living presence opens doors to us, doors that lead to amazing events and happenings.  We find beauty and wonder, healing and wholeness, joy and peace.

Blessed God,
thank you
for faith
that always
leads us
to you.
Thank you
for the blessing
of Lent.
Keep our feet
planted on
the pilgrim road,
we pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, March 9, 2017

Dear God,

You begin each day by speaking to each of your children. We wake up in the morning to your tender hello. You welcome us to the gift of the new day and you remain with us throughout the day.  At nightfall you whisper your love as we close our eyes and dream.

So often we fail to remember your living presence is with us.  We live our days without any sense of your closeness.  Our language does not imply we acknowledge your spirit at work in our lives.  Yet, when you make us aware and we discover the joy of your presence, we walk each day in the light and hope you offer.  Our days are brighter, more joy-filled, and meaningful.  Our joy comes from the knowledge we are walking with an old friend, a best friend, the one who never forgot us or let us go.

Merciful God,
how grateful
we are
to have
a friend
like you.
Thank you
for all
the gifts
you give.
Thank you
for your
living presence
that changes everything.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Dear God,

They sing like angels, their music a mystical sweet reunion with the Lord of their faith.  On our last day of retreat we joined the monastic community for morning prayer.  During the liturgy we read responsively and sang the psalms.  It felt as if we had entered heaven and had the beautiful opportunity to sing with the angels and saints. 

You give us so many chances to walk the walk, talk the talk, and live the faith.  You are always revealing the mysteries of creation, humanity, and the miraculous qualities of grace.  You touch us, yes, touch us.  You touch our minds giving us time to shift our thoughts, misconceptions, and shallow understandings.  You touch our hearts, releasing emotions that have held us captive.  You touch our spirits setting us free to soar on wings of eagles.  You touch our souls equipping us with power from on high, compassion to help others, and loving mercy that heals, helps and holds.

As we stood to leave at the conclusion of the service, we bowed to the altar acknowledging the goodness of the Lord.

Most Loving God,
thank you
for blessing us
so well.
Thank you
for inspiring us
to draw closer
to you.
Thank you
for gifts
equipping us
to bless others.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Dear God,

Amazing!  Astounding!  These words describe your work in our lives today.  You connected the dots, the emotional, psychological, and spiritual dots of our lives.  You lead us to explore and examine the depths and there you showed us the truth that sets people free.  Through tears, prayers, and compassion, you guided us down the paths to hope and freedom.

Twice a year you direct us on retreat.  You plant our feet on solid ground and then move us up and down, sideways and sometimes backwards.  You reveal missing parts and direct us to the well of living water.  You feed us holy food that satisfies.  You invite us to drink until we have our fill.  You challenge us to do the hard stuff, to wander into the places that hurt so that you might heal us and guide us into the future.  You speak your words of comfort and remind us to trust you, to take courage, and to be strong.  You walk with us until finally you point us to a place of rest where you hold us following the journey. 

Blessed God,
thank you
for the
many invitations
to join you
on the journey
of faith.
Thank you
for pointing
the way.
Thank you
for the
healing waters
that never fail
to bless us.

Love always, Andrea

Monday, March 6, 2017

Dear God,

Today joy and anticipation filled my heart and mind as I drove into the Benedictine monastery.  The thought of retreating with my covenant group drew me close to you.  I couldn't wait to get inside both the facility and inside the work of your Holy Spirit.

As we sat to pray giving thanks for the time set aside for retreat, we followed your lead to go to the movies to watch The Shack.  As we watched the film, tears filled our eyes as we observed once again the gentle heart of your spirit at work.  How well the characters reminded us of your compassionate care particularly in the areas where our hearts, minds, and spirits have been wounded.  We gazed with special interest the ways in which you tended to another heart so very pained by the deep, senseless murder of his young daughter.  Although it was a Hollywood production, nonetheless, it pointed us to you and the countless ways you minister to your children.

How blessed we were to begin our time with a display of the Master, the Comforter, Teacher, Redeemer, and Friend.

Gracious God,
let me count
the many ways
you speak
to us.
Thank you
for the author
of The Shack.
Thank you
for the
amazing way
you helped him
pen the words
of a novel
to help
heal him
and us.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, March 5, 2017

Dear God,

You are constantly speaking to us.  Through a bird song, a hymn, a song on the radio, you speak to us of hope. Through a morning sunrise, you speak to us of a new beginning.  Through an answered prayer, you speak to us of a divine connection.  In the midst of daily living you speak to us.

Jesuit spirituality offers a philosophy of reflection.  Every day there must be reflection in order to see you.  Time away or time apart for just a few minutes daily can lead us to wonders of the universe.  For you are at work, your Holy Spirit is touching, inspiring, helping, holding, revealing and so much more.  If we busy ourselves all day and drop into bed without ever reflecting we miss the great events of daily living.

Holy God,
you reveal yourself
to us
every day.
You bless us
with your
living presence.
You speak
powerful messages
of love,
hope, grace,
mercy, and wonderment.
May we,
your children,
pause long enough
to see
and hear you.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, March 4, 2017

Dear God,

I did not know Tony but I had been praying for him because he was my son-in-law’s cousin.  At 37 he lay dying of a rare form of cancer.  When he died I went to the memorial service.  There I met Tony, alive with faith, a heart for mission, and a deep love for you and his family, his wife, two-year-old daughter and twin five-month-old girls.

For over an hour we sang and prayed and listened as his sister, his friend, and his pastor shared their life with this man of faith.  I was so moved by this man who quit a very successful job and began training to be a missionary but was stopped short when he was diagnosed with cancer.  I listened to the speakers tell stories but more importantly I listened as you wove your own message into every word.  They told us that Tony had planned his own service and picked the speakers and the songs.  He asked someone to print the words to "Amazing Grace" so those gathered could read the words, really read the words as they sang the old hymn.  Numerous young people in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s read, wept, and sang.  What a time of inspiration it was.

Sometimes we forget you are really at work in the world.  We go on our way and forget the master of the universe walks beside us.  We make decisions forgetting the Lord of Life is whispering, cajoling, and challenging us to grow in faith so we can serve the world.  Sometimes we forget you until someone like Tony, a perfect stranger to some, speaks a holy word of grace.

Loving God,

thank you
for the
incredible journey
of faith.
Thank you
for your
amazing grace.
Thank you
for the witnesses
who still speak
from the grave. 

Love, Andrea

Friday, March 3, 2017

Dear God,

Who can complain about spring?  Who cannot see the way nature challenges us to grow?  Who cannot hear God in a bird song?

As I look out upon green day lily leaves pushing up through the ground, I think of you.  It is you who put power in the seed, the bulb, the root.  You give them strength to push against a crusty soil with leaves and debris from last fall.  You make them beautiful against the backdrop of gray and brown, of that which looks dead.  You provide a sense of anticipation that something is happening, changing, and will bring color and joy.

Spring is just one more reason for faith.

Blessed God,
thank you
for the
living experience
of spring time.
Thank you
for growth
and transformation.
Thank you
for hope
against all odds.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, March 2, 2017

Dearest God,

With faith life is so different.  A home is not just a home; it is a spiritual refuge.  A tree is not just a tree; it is a symbol of life.  A sunrise is not just a sunrise; it is a new beginning.  A hymn is not just a song; it is a blessed message of God.  Water is not just water; it is living water that really quenches our thirst.

Faith reveals a whole other layer of life.  It points us to the divine, the living divine.  It offers us hope, peace, love, surprise, and a deep well of gratitude.  It helps us see beyond the visible to the invisible.  It brings so much joy bubbling over.  Faith provides challenge, sometimes welcome, sometimes not but always connected with growth and forward movement in our life journey.

Faith gives meaning and purpose to everything in life.  It also hones our ability to give and receive love and mercy.  Faith touches and inspires like nothing else.  Faith takes us to you.

Holy God,
there is
no greater gift
than faith.
Thank you
for the beauty
of faith
that connects us
to you.
Thank you
for faith
that blesses
the world.

Love always, Andrea

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Dear God,

A recent picture of my oldest daughter sits on my desk, a gift given to me at Christmas.  She smiles a beautiful smile.

For thirteen years she was lost to me.  Only by faith could I ever have imagined her return.  I clung to your side because nowhere else could I feel hope.  I prayed. I surrendered. I wept. I trusted.  I prayed again.  One day she returned.  It was over.  We never discussed all the whys; it was just over.

Some situations leave us feeling helpless, without power to resolve, to heal, or to find peace.  In those times you are our all in all, Lord.  You awaken us in the morning with a song of hope.  You instill within us the promise of your living presence.  You walk with us all day long.  You whisper help and guidance.  At night you settle in with us and watch over us even in our dreams.  You bless us beyond imagination.  You save us.

Blessed Lord,
thank you
for the gift
that keeps on giving.
Thank you
for my daughter.
I shall always
glorify your name.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Dear God,

What good is water that does not quench our thirst?  It seems a Samaritan woman was always thirsty but Jesus, the visitor to the village, offered her living water.

So often we drink and drink and never feel our thirst quenched.  We long for that overwhelming feeling of satisfaction, of being fully satiated.  That may be because we drink from a well that does not satisfy.

The water that Jesus offered the woman is the same water we yearn for.  We too are thirsty for living water and when we do drink from your ladle, peace comes.  Hope comes.  Joy comes.  Why would we look anywhere else?

Gracious God,
when we
fill ourselves
with you,
our hearts
are content.
Our minds
are at peace.
Our souls
are full.
Thank you.

Love, Andrea

Monday, February 27, 2017

Dear God,

We are always searching for your light, O God.  On a gray day, on many gray days we long for the light.  When the brightness of a new day dawns, we feel joy in our souls.

So it is when we walk in darkness, when we live lives that snuff out the light around us.  Our vision dims, for we are not able to see you, the truth, and even grace as it comes to us.  We get stuck until soon we lose all sense of the light.

But not forever!  There is within us a deep desire for the light that shines.  Who does not want radiance and brilliance?  Who does not want warmth and beauty?  Who does not want hope, peace, and tranquility?

Your light is the only true light!  Although this light shines in many different ways upon many different people, it is still your light that guides, heals, helps, comforts, and blesses.

Shine on us,
Blessed Lord,
shine on us.
Reveal the truth,
the way,
and the life.
Direct us
to you,
O Eternal One.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Dear God,

Bread that is given by you is not like any other bread.  It literally becomes more.  Once when offered bread in a Catholic Church, I ate it because I wanted the real presence instead of a symbolic one.  As you said, "When you eat this bread, remember me."

When we eat and remember you, we move beyond where we are and who we are to unite and dwell with you.  You draw us to you to be one together and there is nothing sweeter.

Thank you
for bread
that directs us
to you.
Thank you
for holy manna
that feeds
not only
the body
but the soul.
Thank you
for blessing
that goes beyond
the physical
to the spiritual.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Dearest Lord,

This morning I sang the old hymn, "More Love to Thee, O Christ", written by Elizabeth Prentiss in 1856.  As I listened to the words of the poem you showed me how important love is.  The more we love you, the more love we have for the world.

When our capacity for love grows, we become more compassionate.  We think of others more.  We want to reach out, to help, and to assist others.  We want to give.  We want to be merciful.  We become more kind and understanding.  In other words we grow into grace and mercy.

We change when we love and we lead others in the same direction.  Love is meant to change, transform us.  In transforming ourselves we have the opportunity to transform the world around us. 

Holy, Mystical God,
create in us
the ability
to love more.
Help us
really love you
and others.
Transform us
into lovers
who make
a difference.
Move us
to love others
so release
and relief
may come
setting people free.

Love always, Andrea

Friday, February 24, 2017

Dear God,

Slowly and steadily the green is pushing up through the soil, the old leaves and winter debris being pushed aside.  I don't know why it is but I find strength through watching the garden grow.

You made the seeds, the sun, the wind and rain and you make it all work together.  Every winter even before spring has sprung, the green begins to show.  Every seed knows what it is to do and it does it.  So many lessons lay in the seed.

Oh, to do what you want each of us to do and to become.  Oh, to listen to the elements all around us that give cues to our potential growth.  Oh, to delight the Master, the Creator, and push beyond all obstacles that keep us from growing!  Let it be so, Mighty God, let it be so!

Loving God,
thank you
for the
garden lessons.
Thank you
for courage
that rises up
from knowing you.
Thank you
for today's lesson.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, April 23, 2017

Dear God,

You give us spiritual hinge points so we can look back and see the ways you have touched our lives.  When you point out those amazing events and happenings, we acknowledge once again how powerful, loving, and merciful you are.

I remember being young at a sleepover with my favorite cousin at my grandmother's farm home.  It was night time and we were lying on blankets in the front room of the log house.  The door was open as my cousin and I looked through the screen door and up into the sky.  Just two years older than me, she talked with me about you.  I remember thinking how close you were.  I remember my baptism when I was 10.  That was a very special Easter morning.  I remember the psychology class where the professor challenged me to an exercise where powerful healing took place.  I remember when St. Francis appeared in a dream and there my spiritual life was transformed.  I remember the grand vision that came to me in my living room that caused a major shift in my life.  These and so many more inform me of your constant living presence.  They lift me up, shake me up, and hold me up when I am facing difficult moments.

You continually remind us to count our blessings, to remember faith in action, and to grow by taking your hand and traveling forward always keeping an eye on where we have been with you.

Loving God,
thank you
for all
the sacred memories.
Thank you
for the ability
to remember,
to recall
the countless visitations
of your spirit.
Thank you
for the past,
present, and future
that point us
to you.

Love, Andrea