Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Dear God,

This morning I awoke to this thought:  "Let go of yesterday in order to make space for today."  Immediately I knew what that meant.  Yesterday's troubles will plague me all day long and steal all my possibility and potential for today if I do not surrender them.  I realized once again how close you are and attentive to us.

And so I am breathing you in today, trying to practice the presence of the Lord in all things like Brother Lawrence of long ago.  I am trusting you for today.  I am anticipating you will challenge me if I drift back to yesterday.  Today, you will say, focus on today.  This is your gift given just in the nick of time.

Holy and Loving God,

I am yours;

I belong

to no other.

We belong together.

Thank you

for the gift

of your spirit,

of your love

and your challenge.

Lead me, Lord,

lead me.

Love, Andrea

Monday, September 27, 2021

Dear God,

I turn to you; where else can I go?  I was born 75 years ago today.  In all those years one truth I have received is this:  God is the One to whom we can turn to in crisis, defeat, doubt, fear or celebration.  I turned to you for every one of these today.  And so it is true and good to lean toward you for comfort, help, guidance, peace and joy.

Every day is a day to awaken to your spirit, Living God.  You await our attention.  As we acknowledge your presence in our lives, a new day begins full of possibility and promise.  Why?  Because faith is at work being revealed, empowering and enabling us for whatever unfolds during our day.  Faith moves us toward you and to the day before us.  It gives us energy, help and courage to face whatever comes to us.  We can because you are; yes, we can because you are.

Heavenly Father,

thank you

for the gift

of your

holy presence.

We are blessed

to be

in your presence.

Thank you

for touching

our lives

and leading us

into all

our todays.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, September 26, 2021

Dear God,

It doesn't matter whether we are in the world's most exquisite cathedral or in a campground dining hall, when we gather for worship, your spirit is there.  This morning I worshipped with a handful of faithful. Our worship space is nearly empty.  Yet, during worship I was compelled to stand and give thanks for the way our worship service touches my life every time I gather with the people.

I used to think a marvelous church edifice accompanied by stained glass windows and polished hardwood pews was the church where I wanted to worship, a worship center with accomplished choirs, beautiful liturgy and sacred paintings.  I did love worshipping there; I still do.  But Christ is not missing when all those things are absent.

For the last decade you have changed me.  You have taught me a different way.  You have shown me your spirit is not limited or enhanced by buildings, music, liturgy, congregants or coffee fellowship.  Because the church is yours and always will be, all the rest does not matter.  

You are 

with us

in every moment

of worship.

Long ago

you promised

to be 

with us

and you have 

never failed

to be present.

Mold us

and remake us

when we forget

life lessons

you have

taught us.

We are often

like little children

who need

to be reminded

of life lessons.

Lead us,

Lord,

to you.

Love always, Andrea

Saturday, September 25, 2021

Dearest God,

Today I am thinking of the Carmelite community of nuns that I spent 18 years with every Wednesday morning.  They taught me many life lessons.  By example and practice they displayed compassion, forgiveness, wisdom, insight, silence, patience, faith and peace.  Perhaps their greatest gift to me was contemplation.  

Contemplation...waiting, looking inside and outside, quieting one's self, surrendering, opening, listening, reflecting, waiting some more, showing gratitude and thanksgiving.  Contemplation gave me a path to step inside myself to find you and a vast new world where hope rises up, beauty is everywhere, love anoints every hallway and space, non-threatening challenge, the most incredible peace, a sense of belonging and sacred friendship that goes on and on and on.  There are openings all over where we can enter and depart, enjoy fellowship with the Holy One and even dance among the stars, moon and planets.  It is a welcoming place for all who seek.  Contemplation invited me in and there I learned to dwell, learn, breathe, drink and eat holy food.

As I consider all you have given me, today I give thanks for the blessed Carmelites whose faith, love and joy spilled out and over me and still do.

Loving God,

thank you

for all

your generous gifts.

Thank you

for the 

Carmelite sisters

who gave me

so much.

I will

always remember

and give thanks.

Love, Andrea 

Friday, September 24, 2021

Dear God,

I wish the work I do on my home could translate into work I do on myself!  Preparing to leave for home in Indiana, I am cleaning windowsills, floors (mopping and waxing on my hands and knees) counters, refrigerator and anything that needs regular cleaning.  I have really let it go while I spent a month home canning fruits and vegetables.  So much work to do in a small amount of time!  Whew!

I am certain there is much more work needed on my soul, O God.  You know better than I.  Please give me the same intent to clean and declutter my spirit from all unwanted, unnecessary and "unwhatever" clings to me.  I want to rid myself of everything that keeps me from being my best self for you and others.  I want to be light and love and mercy and faith and peace but often I am darkness, judgement, unkindness, selfishness and critical.  Yes, indeed I need a spiritual and emotional and psychological clean up.  Help me, O God, I pray.

Blessed are you,

Creative God.

No one

can restore,

renew and reshape

like you.

I trust you.

Open my spirit

to your

cleaning power,

I pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Dear God,

I love rising in the dark in the early morning.  I love looking outside, gazing at the moon and stars.  I love watching the darkness give way to twilight and then full light.  I love mornings because in them I see you, Loving Father.

There is something amazingly wonderful about the dawn of a new day.  It is the fresh beginning that challenges me in my spirit.  How can I be loving today?  How can I be a better person?  How can I spend this day giving witness to my love for you?  Although I do not ask these questions directly every day, I do think of you and want more than anything to bless you through my practices, actions and intents.

Then as darkness claims the end of the day, I am grateful to know I have been in your presence all day long.  You have kept me, shielded me and guided me.  Even though I do not always follow your will or your nudges, I am grateful you have blessed me with your presence and love anyway.  And that fact alone pushes me to greater devotion.

Holy, holy, holy

are you,

Gracious and Merciful God.

Thank you

for today's

new creation evolving

outside my

kitchen window.

Thank you

for new beginnings

and personal challenges

of faith.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Dear God,

Like every Wednesday morning our covenant group met this morning by conference call.  We gathered for silence, devotional meditation, prayer, spiritual sharing and prayer again.  In one hour we offer up our celebrations, troubles, prayer needs, questions, doubts, fears, one each week as we open our eyes, minds, hearts, spirits and ears to truly listen to you.  As we envision, hear and pray, you engage us sometimes in miraculous ways.  Insights, hopes, answers, challenges and peace come to us as we await your word to us.

This group has been a gift for over 30 years.  Week in and week out you gather with us.  You guide us to truth, freedom, surrender, hope, contemplation and joy.  We walk together in faith trusting you to challenge us in every way.  We always sense your living presence with us and we know love exists for each and all of us.  We are a group because you brought us together and made us a unique community of faith.  Bill, Jan, Susan and I are sisters and brother, a spiritual family made by your hands.  We are grateful, so very grateful.

Thank you

for making us

your own,

O Lord.

Thank you

for fashioning us

into a group.

It is

your presence

we seek,

long for.

We are

never disappointed.

You bless us;

help us 

bless you

right back.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Dear God,

It is a marvel to me how a simple object can bring sweet memories.  When lonely I can peer over into the china cupboard and find there an antidote to my condition.

I have dishes that belonged to three aunts, mother, two grandmothers, former grandmother-in-law, cousin, and friends.  If I am patient and allow memories to rise, this dining room is filled with laughter, love and stories.  I love what belonged to family memories.  They bring comfort, joy and even mercy.  

All these generous loved ones gave me so much.  They blessed me with their presence, their hope and their kindness.  They challenged me to be a better person by the lives they lived.  They provided sustenance when I was lacking in anything.  They taught me about you and faith and how to live a life where faith informed daily living.  They offered me unconditional love every time I was with them.  They made me rich.

Living God,

you are always

in our midst.

You speak

in countless

many ways.

You touch

and hold us

in every situation.

You teach us

life lessons.

You bless us

through others.

Thank you.

Yours, Andrea

Monday, September 20, 2021

Dear God, 

A weed grew up in my flower garden until it now stands about 5' tall.  (I failed to work in that garden this year)  However, a bright, beautiful yellow flower now bobs in the breeze.  Its color against deep emerald green evergreen is such a delight on this Autumn day.

Although I am particularly moved by the scene just outside my kitchen window, I know there are many such scenes that catch our eye and remind us of creation's ongoing story.  I love your reminder of your living presence all around us in every space, time and season.

Soon winter winds will blow, everything will seem stark and bleak but I will remember the bobbing yellow flower and give thanks.

Holy and Loving God,

thank you

for the

vivid image

of your

living presence

in my garden today.

Thank you

for quiet reminders

and beautiful images.

Thank you

for touching

my life

this morning.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, September 19, 2021

Dear God,

I cannot imagine being anywhere else but worship on Sunday mornings.  Like clockwork my spirit moves toward worship.  Your spirit breeze calls me to gather with others who want to join in celebrating your spirit movement throughout the week.  Whispering, singing, saying, telling and praising you is our way of saying thank you.

This morning was the same as all others.  As we take our seats, I feel as though I have entered a visible divine home where somehow, some way your spirit resides.  As I breathe in, I sense your essence, your beauty and your love.  I know I am in the house of the Lord.  It doesn't matter whether it is a cathedral, a campground, a tent, a dining hall or a few people in a circle; it all feels the same to me.

I am so blessed to hear the word spoken, sung or played.  I listen for your word designed for me and us as a community of faith.  I am fortified, inspired, challenged, corrected and inspired.  I step out into the world in a fresh way as I leave our worship center.

Loving God,

thank you

for holy worship.

Thank you

for touching

human souls.

Thank you

for reminding us

to remain close

while reaching out

in love

to all those

around us.

Love, Andrea

 

Saturday, September 18, 2021

Dear God,

Today is a gratitude day.  Today I count my blessings.  Today I acknowledge your work in my life and the lives of so many.  Today I look all around me, pause and give thanks.  Today I think of answered prayers, miracles, healings, unexpected kindnesses, loving gifts, compassion and much mercy.  Today I simply give thanks.

I think every day should be a gratitude day.  Even when things are hard, even when losses come, even when life takes a wrong turn, even when I feel hopeless and even when it appears there is nothing for which to give thanks is a good day for thanksgiving.  Giving thanks means not taking credit for everything good; it extends beyond that recognizing goodness comes from you, gifts of air, water, sunshine, growth, love, friendships, family and faith all have your name etched in them.  When we acknowledge life and its many gifts, our minds, hearts and souls turn to you in loving thanksgiving.

Holy God,

thank you,

thank you,

thank you.

Gift-Giving God,

you are great,

full of love

and compassion.

Open us

to see

beneath and beyond

all that is

so we

can see

glimpses of you.

Love, Andrea

Friday, September 17, 2021

Dear God,

It is an odd thing.  In the last few weeks I have been smelling a sweet, flowery smell in the air inside and outside my home.  Just all of a sudden I will catch a whiff of sweetness.  It is fall and all things for the most part are dying back, sweet scents with them.  I could only conclude it was the scent of heaven.

We so often forget you are visible in the world, not dressed like the historical Jesus or with wings like saints, but present in loving, mystical ways.  One person's unexpected kindness to another is one way.  Forgiveness rising up out of conflict is one example.  Or maybe an amazing sunrise or sunset that penetrates the doubting, questioning and hurting heart and brings peace.  There are so many ways you reach out to us if we have anticipation, hope and an open heart.

Blessed are you

who cares most

about each

and all

of us.

Thank you

for touching

and inspiring us.

Turn our eyes

toward heaven,

I pray.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Dear God,

If it is true we are all made in your image, how can we overcome our prejudice, dislikes and preferences and begin to acknowledge a vision of you in each person?  In our troubled nation we have become like little children although worse.  We have allowed our beliefs and practices to get in the way of goodness, compassion and kindness. Stories abound about people attacking others for small incidents, voter suppression and just plain meanness.  When will we ever acknowledge we are not kings and queens over human life?

So many are hurting, dear Father, for so many reasons.  Fear is rampant and out of fear, people rage, lash out and even destroy.  We are hell bent demanding life on our own terms which excludes, categorizes and profiles.  We forget we are family, made of the same cloth and one.  We fail you and one another.

Teach us how

to love again.

Show us

the way

to hospitality,

compassion and mercy.

Renew our minds

and hearts.

Fill us

with the stuff

of eternity.

Make us one

bringing all comfort.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Dear God,

Sometimes we forget all the ways you work in human life.  Sometimes we limit what we believe you can and will do.  We opt for one way, hang our hat on that vision and fail to witness the "more" you want to do.  But then we are a shortsighted, stubborn people with little faith.  We miss the interaction, the hidden miracles and the joy of fulfillment.  We are not disappointed but rather we rejoice knowing your will has unfolded once again.

I look at so much of what is happening in our world right now.  So many demands, judgements and bitterness are filling so many people including myself at times.  We want what we want when we want it.  Such practices leave us wanting, miffed and angry.  But a slight shift can make all the difference meaning we are ready for you to act in any way you choose on our behalf.  Knowing we get to be part of your action brings rewards of many kinds.

Holy God,

make us pliable,

clay in

your hands.

Make us willing

to wait,

listen, be patient

and open

to what is

to come.

Reshape us,

Loving God,

into your image.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

Dear God,

It is time to get ready to go home.  That means cleaning the yard and storing away all the summer furniture, kayaks and equipment, putting in the storm door windows, cleaning house, carrying upstairs all the boxes of home-canned fruits and vegetables, packing our bags, putting up all the screens and locking all the windows and doors.  It takes time and is not one of my most fun things to do.  

But there is more to the job that meets the eye.  In the midst of all the work, there are memories that rise up from our time here like visits from family and friends, early sunrises, progress on the spiritual path and in the hermitage, spectacular colorful flowers rising up seemingly out of nowhere, gentle breezes, all things dancing in the wind, morning devotions and quiet times with you.  There is no adequate way to describe the value of each divine encounter during the spring and summer.  My mind is flooded with every good gift you gave this summer especially during difficult times.

As I say goodbye to Maine, I look forward to leaving behind all my anxiety around the pandemic, the political arguments, the losses and sorrows from so many things, the hurts and disappointments and hidden pain on so many levels.  I choose to take with me new hope, anticipation of reuniting with family and friends, being back home in Indiana, preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Epiphany and quiet moments in the glassed-in study where I sit with my circle of friends and do my devotions.  In both my goodbyes and hellos, I remain with you in devotion, study, prayer, meditation, contemplation and joy.

Loving God,

thank you

for what

has been

and what

will be.

Thank you

for the blessings

of summer.

Lead me forward

without the luggage

of the past.

Love, Andrea

Monday, September 13, 2021

Dear God,

This morning the mist rolled upward as the mirror-glass river displayed pictures of Autumn leaves changing colors.  I could not help but be moved by the awesome will of the Almighty transforming the season of summer into Fall.

This is such a prized transition time.  As the air cools, the darkness steals more from the light of each day and the summer treasures begin to wilt and die, we know a new season is coming swiftly.  There is something in my soul that tells me the same thing is happening inside me.  It is time for me to surrender what has been to what is coming.  It is your call to take your hand and wander into the new once again.

Transition moments are always calls to trust more, to let go and to wade into what will be.  There are no guarantees aside from your repeated reminder you are with us as we change and grow, wait patiently and walk and run at your will.  It is indeed a new adventure with you.

Living God,

thank you

for this

special time.

Thank you

for the call

to move forward

one more time.

Open us

to Autumn's

life lessons,

I pray.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, September 12, 2021

Dear God,

This morning our preacher spoke of the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi.  "Where there is injury, pardon."  As he spoke I remembered my time in that tiny town in France.  On a Journey with God renewal leave, I remember the countless insights, revelations and thoughts that came as you led me closer to you through the saint.

I began writing there in 2005.  My letters to you came as inspirations in my heart and mind and soul.  Even as I write today, I remember the carved rock openings where teeny restaurants, bars and coffee shops were located.  I wrote in so many of them feeling your presence so very powerfully.  Words of gratitude spilled from my lips as I acknowledged over and over again the living, present reality of God.  Often I wept, joy filling me up and blessing me beyond all imagination.

Today I continue to write because I am still in love with you, God.

Holy, holy, holy

are you,

Living, Loving God.

Thank you

for the

million ways

you speak

to us,

offering challenge,

mercy, hope,

love, conviction,

affirmation, correction,

blessing and peace.

I will

always praise you.

Love forever, Andrea

Saturday, September 11, 2021

Dearest God,

I listened to the 9/11 remembrances and wept joining so many others who lost loved ones during the attack on September 11, 2001.  Such a horrible event to remember; yet, the goodness of many were reported then and even now.

Children followed their lost parent's lead by becoming fire fighters and police officers.  The accounts of love coming out of 9/11 are stunning.  I wept then too as I listened to their stories.

What I know to be true is this:  You are at work in the breakdown and the buildup.  You are in the loss and the gain.  You are in the darkness as well as the light.  I believe this so very much.  You are in it all.  We are never alone in the horror or the beauty.

Thank you,

Holy God,

for your

loving, living presence.

Without you

where would

we be?

Teach us

to stay close always.

Love, Andrea

Friday, September 10, 2021

Dear God,

Sometimes we shorten your hand limiting what you can do. I don't know why or understand others or myself.  Perhaps we forget who is God and who is not, who has the power and who does not and who knows more and who does not.

You work your miracles your way.  You can create miracles any number of ways.  It is not just one way or another although that is all we can see.

When the coronavirus came to us, we did not want it to touch us.  Our political leaders, at least some, used it for political purposes making masks, shut downs and vaccines controversial.  As a result people have grown sick refusing to be vaccinated and they have died.

When we pray and listen to you, we must know there is always more than we know.  Like St. Paul, " we only see in part."  Yet, you, O God, see fully.  When we pray, we only want to deal with the part we see.  In doing so, we lose out on so much more.

My beloved cousins decided against vaccinations.  Now one of them is dying in the hospital because they did not trust the science which is one more way a miracle can occur.  Larry will die like so many others, needlessly.  I am so sad.

Merciful God,

show us

the way back

to you.

Teach us

to fall

at your knees,

listening, waiting,

being patient.

Lead us,

O God; 

forgive us

when we

want to

lead you.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, September 9, 2021

 Dear God,

The flowers hear your gentle whisper as they began to lose their petals and their leaves begin to die back.  They know Autumn is calling and soon winter winds will blow.  Yet, they know in due time, their season of new life will come again in springtime when all life renews itself.

This is also true, Merciful God, as we reflect upon our own lives right now.  In this season of turmoil, division and loss in our families, nation and world, we know the feeling of loss, sorrow and pain, if not for our self, then for others.  When I weep, it is not just for myself or my own beloved family but for all who hurt right now.  

As creator you made us to care for one another.  You never intended for us to live alone or function as if we needed only our self.  When one hurts, we all hurt.  When one rejoices, all rejoice.

Today I feel both sadness and joy for summer's passing and our world who mourns.

Loving God,

fill us

with you,

with your mercy

and compassion.

Help us

give thanks

for all

that is good.

Mourn with us

in our loss,

I pray.

Love, Andrea

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

 Dear God,

Our world is hurting!  Natural disasters, Covid outbreaks, political division, hatred between people and food insecurity are just some of what plagues the planet, Lord.  Where are you?

Help us

because you are

the only one

who can.

Lead us

to help

one another.

Show us

the way,

I pray.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Dear God,

Each morning as I sit with a circle of friends, authors of inspirational books, I feel so full of gladness as I reflect upon the ways you have brought them into my life.  Richard Rohr, Henri Nouwen, St. Paul, Harriet Tubman, Charles Carroll of Carrolton, Ruth and so many more speak and I listen.  Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by their faith, courage, strength, wisdom and hope. They offer so much that I need to hear.

Over the course of the last few years you have called me to be attentive to your voice, nudges and challenges to include souls who have walked the faith journey.  As I read, meditate and glean from their stories I see ways you are speaking to me to be light for the path of others as these precious ones have been for me. I am so grateful for each one!

Holy, holy, holy

are you,

God Almighty.

Thank you

for all those

who walk

the way

of faith.

Thank you

for their lessons

and challenges.

Love, Andrea

Monday, September 6, 2021

Dear God,

I stood at my kitchen sink slipping the hot skins from beets I picked from the farm just yesterday.  As I held the small, deep wine-colored beet in my hand, I whispered aloud, "How blessed I am to be able to work with fresh produce grown in the earth by dedicated farmers and home canned by me to give to family and friends who love beets."  I smiled thinking how grateful I am for your creation!

Home canning is a labor-intensive project but washing, touching, preparing, slicing, eating and giving away produce provided by your hand and the many who plant the seeds, cultivate, water and provide such wonderful goodness always makes me feel blessed.  Today it was the beets and pears.  A few days ago it was the peaches, carrots and strawberry peach, blueberry and red raspberry jam.  Tomorrow it will be tomatoes and next week will be apples.  Abundance, abundance, abundance.

It is all a tremendous spiritual exercise, O God!  You are to be praised!

Thank you,

Creator God,

for the fruit

and vegetables

of the earth.

Thank you

for all 

you do

to provide

such rich,

tasty, healthy

and amazing food.

Thank you

for today's blessing

and yesterday's

and tomorrows!

Love always, Andrea

Sunday, September 5, 2021

Dear God,

The morning message was on forgiveness.  What is more difficult than forgiving someone who has radically harmed you?  Yet, you yourself said "Forgive 70 times 7."

My nephew was killed in a fire set by his adopted son.  Just 45 years old he was able to get his partner, his ten-year-old son and 11-month-old baby out the second-story window but not himself.  He was found rolled up in a ball in the upstairs bathroom.  My sister was broken.  At the hospital she lay across his lifeless body.  As family and friends gathered by his hospital bed, we all wept, even wailed.  When I conducted his memorial service, all I could see and hear was a sea of crushed family members.  It was only by your divine power and strength I was able to provide a service for Jason.  The day before thinking I simply could not lead the service, I literally fell to my knees weeping asking for your strength to do what needed to be done.  I had to provide comfort for my family and provide some way to make sense of the great tragedy.

Jordan was just fifteen years old, a troubled kid abused by a biological uncle who now was in prison for life for killing two men.  Jordan didn't have a chance at life until Jason reached out and gave him a way.  But Jordan was too broken.  Jason had him on a waiting list for a in-patient psychological care facility but there were no beds so Jordan acted out.  He lost, Jason lost and family and friends lost.

But sometime later Jesus came along and helped my sister forgive Jordan who is now in prison for 30 horrible years.  Prison for a troubled boy.  So tragic.  But forgiveness helped my sister survive although she spent nearly four years thinking of suicide.  I pray for Jordan daily.  I pray forgiveness helped him too.

Loving God,

thank you

for your mercy.

Show us

the means

by which

to forgive

one another.

Help us

trust you

and surrender

to your care.

There is

no greater love

than yours.

Yours, Andrea

Saturday, September 4, 2021

Dear God,

At Spiller Farm I bent down low to pick beets and dig up carrots.  My friend cut the leaves and bagged them.  An hour later I stood at the farm stand and paid for the produce.  I thanked Anna, the farm owner, and then drove back through the country to my home on Pleasant Street.  

After I washed off the dirt, I began the canning process.  As I worked, I could not help but pray for the Spillers who have maintained their beautiful farm for 55 years.  Now in their 80's they still provide the most colorful, tasty and sublime fruits and vegetables.  

I gave thanks for the amazing way you created produce that heightens every human sense when I home can all I pick, bushels and baskets of peaches, pears, apples, carrots, beets, tomatoes, onions, peppers, corn, black and red raspberries, blueberries and strawberries.  They are purple, white, red, yellow, orange, black, blue and green.  And texture, yes, so many textures.  You made them all.

Home canning is a spiritual exercise, Lord.  You have called me to this task as I both enjoying eating them and giving them away to friends, family, neighbors, the oil man, the carpenter, and well, whoever else winds up at my door.  What joy you bring to me, dear God, and I am indeed grateful.

Most Holy and Creator God,

the wonder

of harvest

amazes me

every year.

Without your touch,

the rain,

warm temperatures

and sunshine,

there would be

no fruit

or vegetables.

That's when

I bite 

into the flesh

of every gift

of Autumn

and utter

a prayer

of thanks.

Love, Andrea

Friday, September 3, 2021

Dearest God,

Fall is in the air.  I feel it in my bones.  Soon leaves will turn color, temperatures will cool down and a new season will be born...again.

How I love this time of year.  I love summer but am always ready for the new season to emerge.  I love each season that brings so much beauty with it but Autumn, well, that's pretty wonderful.

The changing of seasons is always your call to look at changes needing to be made in the human soul.  What do I need to change, Lord?  I ask myself.  And, yes, I do find areas that need some transforming.  Although change can be somewhat difficult, I know with your help, I can do anything.

Blessed God,

you are God;

there is none

like you.

Thank you

for the call

of the season.

Thank you

for your call

to me.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Dear God,

Today as I reflect upon blessings from on high, I think of my daughter Jennifer who was born on this day 51 years ago.  She weighed in at 10 lbs. 10 1/2 ozs. and was 22 1/2" long.  Her life-giving placenta burst, coming out in shreds.  At 10 days of age she stopped breathing and I had to rush her to the doctor's office where some particles of her placenta were blocking her airway.  I worried and prayed hard for the next few weeks that she would not choke again.

Jen was 35 when she became pregnant with her second child.  At literally six weeks she asked me to touch her belly because it seemed hard to her plus the fact she looked like she was three months pregnant.  Then she spotted.  An ultrasound found a growing tumor in her uterus.  Three weeks later she began projectile vomiting with severe pain.  Later that day they removed the grapefruit-sized cancerous ovary.  We were thrilled seven months later when Charlie, a very bright, articulate and healthy, beautiful, red-headed daughter was born.  Because of her pregnancy the cancer was found and removed intact, Jenni was healed and Charlie was born.  Today I have so much to celebrate!

Thank you,

dearest God,

for all

your gifts

but especially for

my daughter Jenni

and my 

granddaughter Charlie.

You saved them both.

Love always, Andrea

 

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Dear God,

Today I stepped into the deep when I read the words of Habbakuk.  "I have heard all about you, Lord, and I am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done.  In this time of deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by.  Show us your power to save us.  And in your anger, remember your mercy."  The words are fitting for such a time as this.

I decided to memorize and repeat these words daily like a prayer.  The message is not just for me but for the world and all her people, her children.  For we all need this prayer right now, if not for ourselves then for others, so very many others.

Blessed are you,

Loving and Compassionate God,

for your

know us

so well.

You know

our need

before we

can even 

utter our words.

Fill us

with you,

O Father,

for your mercy

can heal

like no other.

Love, Andrea  

 

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Dearest God,

Sixteenth century mystic John of the Cross penned, "Silence is God's first language."  Today as I reflect upon faith and a life with you, that sentence, that theology, that belief statement make more sense than anything else I know about faith.

It was the Carmelite sisters that introduced silence to me.  I always thought silence was simply the absence of sound but I was, oh so wrong.  Silence is a pregnant, profound space where eternity resides, where love is most deeply known, where grace challenges, where living water spills and living presence is more real that anywhere else.  Silence is quiet, yes, but so very much more where you speak and we are most able to clearly hear.  Silence changed my life.

I used to fill my home with sound, the television, the DVD or CD player, the radio, anything that would keep my space from being something I could not handle or control.  But then you sent me to the Carmelites and everything became different.  Suddenly, my inner spirit was no longer afraid but open, contemplative.  I found a place where I could reside anytime I wanted.  I could sprawl out, breathe in, let go, taste, touch and be in a realm so beautiful and sweet where mercy was like air and love like a cushion pressed up close.  I wandered and yet was content to be still, drinking in the wonder of space so magnificent, so huge and so wondrous.  I found this to be so pleasant, so assuring, so lovely, so free and so simple as to turn me inside out.  I learned contemplation, surrender and contentment.  I discovered new eyes and ears.  I felt home.

Blessed are you,

almighty, yet, loving,

tender and caring.

Thank you

for the Carmelites,

for their home

and faith

and love.

Thank you

for drawing me in.

Love always, Andrea

Monday, August 30, 2021

Dearest God,

This is a love letter to you.

You love me like no other.  You created me with your own hands.  You breathed your life into mine.  You whisper to me daily reminding me to trust and to walk with you.  You constantly invite me into your life and love.  You nudge me to do as you ask.  You challenge me to grow in every aspect.  You bless and inspire me all day long every day.  You awaken me each morning and pray with me each night.  You keep me all during my sleep.  

How can I adequately thank you for all my blessings?  How can I bless you back?  How can I more fully become who you created me to be?

Thank you

for your 

unconditional love

and tender care,

Most Holy, Loving God.

Thank you

for stretching me,

teaching me,

challenging me,

convicting me

and forgiving me.

Thank you

for every gift.

I love you more than all.

Love always, Andrea

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Dear God,

Fear can grip us stealing away every ability to move, think and act.  It is the opposite of faith that trusts in One who is greater than fear.

O Lord, as I gaze upon survivors of the Tennessee flood, the afghan rush to leave their home nation and those running from hurricanes and wildfires, I reflect upon the terror right now in human eyes.  Oh, how I want to take it away.  How I want to bring calm, security and basic necessities.  Fear is plaguing so many for a great number of reasons.

Dearest God, 

help us 

fall backward

into your arms 

at every threat.  

Show us 

the way 

to even 

greatest trust.  

Point us 

in the direction 

of help, 

guidance and resources 

for our 

every need. 

You know us

more fully

than any other. 

Take hold 

of us 

and keep us 

forever close.

Love, Andrea

 

Saturday, August 28, 2021

Dear God,

I have not been well.  I have not written you.  I have missed you.

Do you remember years ago when I had a mystery illness?  My body began shutting down like a dying process, only I would not die.  Finally through much prayer and a specialist in Boston did we find a solution to the problem.

For months all blood tests would appear perfectly normal; yet, I was very weak having difficulties breathing, digesting and speaking.  At first I was afraid but you came to me, sat with me and promised your constant presence.  I trusted you 100% because no doctor could figure out what was wrong.

This week some of the same symptoms returned, not nearly as bad, but still.  I have had to turn to you again because the same diagnostic tests reveal all is well.  It is time to trust deeply again.

You are God

and the

Great Physician.

You know all

about us

for you 

created us,

every part

of us.

Hold me close

while I

deepen my faith,

Holy One.

Love, Andrea

Friday, August 27, 2021

Dear God,

"He leads me beside still waters.  He restores my soul."  When the psalmist penned these words, he must surely have experienced the power of still waters.  For surely they do restore the human soul.

On a trip to the Holy Land in the 1990's I remember taking a long hike in the area of Dan.  By the time we reached the waterfall and pond, we were tired and thirsty.  I remember sitting by the waters, cupping water in my hand and drinking.  After walking so long, I realized the joy, peace and hope of still waters.

Who has the power to take us to still waters, O God?  Only you, only you.  When we allow the still waters to creep into our soul, we recognize its power to redeem, restore and renew.  A time of chaos can become a time of peace and serenity.  Although we do not always sit beside still waters, you can bring still waters to us through memory, imagination and spiritual listening.  There, wherever we are, you can making us whole.

Eternal God,

all powerful

and loving,

thank you

for the power

of still waters

to heal.

Thank you

for the mystery

of your spirit

found in

still waters.

Thank you

for redemption,

restoration

and renewal.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Dear God,

Have we totally lost our ability to be civil with one another?  Have we forgotten your command to love one another?  Do we really want to remain in chaos and conflict, failing to find ways to build a bridge?

No matter which way we look whether in political matters, vaccine versus no vaccine or human rights, we find ourselves fighting, keeping us in emotional and psychological disarray.  I hate it, really hate it.  I believe we are better than this.  You created us with a capacity to reason, rationalize and rise to goodness.  Why do we reject that which you have given us?  I don't understand; I really don't understand!

Help us,

O Lord,

only you can.

Open our minds;

change our hearts;

make us new

again.

Have we

gone so far

there is

no way back?

Show us

the way,

your way,

Loving and Merciful God.

Yours, Andrea

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Dear God,

"The Lord has done wonderful things for us," the psalmist remarked.  In my own mind I wondered what those wonderful things were.  Healings, miracles, helps, guidance, mercy, all wonderful things.

In a day when chaos reigns, when people are suffering, when we have done all we can do in our situation, perhaps we can sit back to consider what wonderful things you have done for us.  As I sit here writing, I can remember your countless acts of mercy to me and those I love.  I can recall miraculous happenings, those things only you could do.  I breathe in moments of hope that seemingly came out of nowhere.  When I move away from myself and think of others, I am able to see how your hand has moved.

When I reflect upon the pandemic, many wondrous things come to mind, people stepping up to bless, inspire, help, bless and comfort others, strangers.  Each day when new things, events and happenings were reported, I thought of you and the wonderful things you were doing through others.  Sometimes I wept.  Other days I gave thanks.  Always, I praised you.

Thank you, 

Blessed Lord,

for the

generous gifts

of your spirit.

Remind us

to remember

and give thanks.

We need you now

so much.

Love, Andrea