Thursday, May 14, 2020

Dearest God,

Your presence blesses me every day.  I never have to look for you.  I never have to call your name as if you are absent.  You promised to be with us every day and I take you at your word.

The Carmelite sisters taught me by example that your living, loving presence is always with us.  They live with that belief, trust wholly in your word and operate daily as if you are in the room with them.  That assurance blessed me when I lived with them for two weeks while I completed a book I was writing.  No matter what situation befell them, they practiced their faith in that knowledge.

I remember the time when an intruder broke into the monastery and beat two of the sisters.  Within days I attended the liturgy and the sisters radiated a peace I had not seen.  I was furious with the man who invaded their holy home; yet, they prayed for him with love and mercy.  They could do so because they believed you were in the room during the invasion.

When I am tempted to believe you come and go, I remember the sisters who taught me so much.  Then I smile, drink in the air of faith and trust your present presence.

Thank you,
Holy God,
for your
sacred presence.
Thank you
for the blessing
you give.
Thank you
for love
that is also
ever present.

Love, Andrea