Monday, October 31, 2022

Dear God,

Miracles still happen.  A marriage of a family member broke down.  There was blame and judgement on both sides.  They separated, yet they partnered to parent their teenage children.  One day they started talking, looking deeply into what happened in their life together.  Just yesterday there was a major breakthrough as they struck the first deep root of disaster.  They are still talking.

That was the first miracle.  I am sure it will not be the last.  They both have been praying about who they are and what they are about.  It would not surprise me if they found their way back to each other.  

Sometimes we think things are too broken to be put back together.  We give up.  We lose hope.  But we forget there is One who is greater than the brokenness.  Sometimes what we lost is returned to us but only after we have found our way to you.

Blessed are you,

God of Great Love.

Thank you

for this miracle

and all

the others

that come

our way

but are

never noticed.

Forgive us.

Teach us

to seek you first.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, October 30, 2022

Dear God,

This morning I was moved and challenged to think about faith as a seed.  But even more than that, you nudged me to remember all those who sowed seeds of faith into me.  Even as a child I remember my grandmother sowing seeds as I watched her read her bible, share vegetables in her garden with the hungry in her tiny community and pray on her knees for all of us every night.  

I remember Freida, my eighth grade Sunday School teacher whose love always encircled me and all members of her class.  I remember Mrs. Kintzel, my high school typing teacher whose patience and compassion led her to stay after school to help me find a rhythm that would aid me during high school, undergraduate and graduate school.  I remember Jeanne who supported me when I had trouble nursing my youngest daughter.  All these were sowers of faith, these and many more.

Thank you

for all 

the sowers

in my life.

Thank you

for the seeds

they sowed

in me.

Thank you

for the seed

who is you.

Yours, Andrea

Saturday, October 29, 2022

Dear God,

There is something about Advent that always draws my spirit each year.  I think it is the idea of waiting.  Although I am not always patient, I want to learn the lesson of waiting.  Advent helps me think of waiting as a sacred discipline.

A couple days ago I found a couple of old Advent devotional books.  I was drawn to them as I consider those many days leading up to Christmas.  In fact I am so drawn to them for my own spirit that I cannot imagine Christmas without Advent.  I want to enter Christmas with a waiting heart and spirit.

Holy God,

teach me

the lesson

of waiting,

of patience

and walking

each day

with you.

Why would

I want

to rush

if I know

you are

by my side?

Make me

a willing participant

in your

awaiting kingdom.

Yours, Andrea 

Friday, October 28, 2022

Dear God,

American Franciscan priest, Richard Rohr, speaks of "remembered love."  He says it is during times when life is hard and we feel forgotten, anxious or unloved, we can reflect on remembered love given to us before and still lives within us.  A few days ago when I read his words, I stepped back in time and remembered.

Yes, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt alone, afraid and isolated.  During the days, weeks and months following that, I found you waiting around every corner.  During oncology visits, surgery, and a long, painful recovery, I felt your peace beside me.  I felt loved like never before.  I felt joy and celebration.  Although that was 25 years ago, I still remember and am fed by the memory.

Thank you,

Loving God,

for the memories

of your

living presence.

I am blessed,

so very,

very blessed.

I shall 

never forget.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, October 27, 2022

Dear God,

In quiet, cold and breezy days, it is so easy to find you.  When no one is out and all seems silent, nature invites us in to sit and contemplate.  It tells the story of the divine.  If we say yes, it ushers us in and shares their secrets, the mysteries of God and faith, resurrection and hope, love and peace.

Today is just such a day so I am saying yes.

Yes, yes, yes,

Loving God,

I say yes.

Thank you

for nature

and her

magical ways

of speaking

your message.

Thank you

for today.

Love, Andrea 

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Dear God,

True peace never comes through competition.  True peace is for one and all.  A peace made for just some is never a true peace.

When Jesus spoke of peace, it was the peace of a different kind than that which we think of especially in America.  Having more, getting more, taking more, bullying more and pushing aside more never results in true peace.  It is understandable how and why Jesus was called the prince of peace.  It would be amazing if we could absorb his teachings and become children of peace for the world.

Show us

the way

to true peace,

O Lord.

We are 

all desperate

for it.

We need you,

Holy God;

we need

the prince

of peace.

Love, Andrea

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Dear God,

I feel my body healing after surgery.  As I lay on the gurney just before the anesthesiologist injected me with a sleeping solution in order for the doctor to operate, I prayed for all those attending me.  I also prayed for healing.

Although I have had pain, I have breathed in your living presence as a form of peace and calm.  I have followed doctor's orders but I know that healing is impossible without you.  For you are the Great Physician and Comforter.  When your hand is upon us, anything is possible, even healing.

Thank you,

Great God,

for your

healing touch.

Thank you

for loving me

so much 

that you

would heal me.

I am blessed.

Now make me

a healing agent

for those

who need

your loving mercy.

Yours, Andrea

Monday, October 24, 2022

Dear God,

Why must we want evil done to our enemy?  Even in the scriptures, the faithful will ask for help for themselves and for you to pour death on their enemies.  I do not understand.

While there are those I dislike very much, even hate, like lying, manipulating people like Donald Trump, I do not ask you to do them harm.  How can I legitimately ask you to help me and harm someone else?  How can I expect your provision for me?

Teach us tolerance,

O God.

Help us pray

for our neighbor

and even

our enemy.

Show us

the way

of Jesus.

Love, Andrea

Sunday, October 23, 2022

Dear God,

I look out the study window and see small birds, robins, wrens, blue jays, sparrows and more, feasting on the tiny red berries.  Last spring there were no leaves, then suddenly tiny buds appeared, then beautiful pink flowers began to unfold.  Before long, green leaves began to grow and unfurl.  All summer the birds found rest from their labors.  And then the leaves began to turn and berries formed.  The birds sing your praise in thanksgiving.

What a beautiful thing it is to remember the words from Ecclesiastes, "There is a time and season for all things..."  The birds and the trees, the flowers and berries, the leaves, limbs and branches all hear your voice and follow your call.  Such obedience, love and faith right outside my study window!

Holy Creator,

thank you

for all

the seasons,

for their commitment

to you

and all creation.

Thank you

for the beauty

outside my 

study window.

Thank you

for love

that sprouts

all year long.

Yours, Andrea

Saturday, October 22, 2022

Dear God,

How good and gracious you are.  We have prayed and prayed for Maggie and Jeff, a couple longing to become parents.  After three IVF's and two miscarriages, Maggie conceived and last night gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl.  Our hearts were full and our voices sang your praise.

You have taught us that nothing is too small or too large to bring to you.  You have invited us to set our worries and concerns before you.  You have asked us to trust you in all things.  Although we do not receive every wish or dream, we do recognize your hand in everything that unfolds before us.

And so today, the day after the miracle, we pause to give thanks!

Loving God,

full of mercy

and compassion,

we thank you

for your kindness.

We thank you

for hearing

a young

couple's plea

for a baby.

Thank you

for a

safe delivery
and hearts full

of gratitude.

Love, Andrea

Friday, October 21, 2022

Dear God,

This morning I looked outside my study windows and gazed at the robin-egg blue sky.  White billowy clouds moved silently while I watched.  It was so beautiful.

I realize the skies are never the same.  One day it is cloudless, another filled with clouds.  The sky can be blue, white, gray, pink, yellow, azure, gold, purple or black, the exact colors you chose and choose while creating. 

I couldn't help thinking about the wonders of your creation.  I could not help but mutter my words of praise and gratitude.

Loving God,

thank you

for the gifts

of creation.

Thank you

for every blessing

that suddenly appears.

Thank you today

for the lesson

of the sky.

Yours, Andrea

Thursday, October 20, 2022

Dear God,

I watch as the squirrels scamper about the yard in search of nuts and other food for winter.  Once they find it they look for a place to "squirrel" it away.  Come winter they will return to the site and feast upon it.

Faith could be like that.  In good times where there is plenty of joy, peace and hope, we too can put our treasure in places to save for hard times.  After all, who doesn't need joy in sorrowful times, peace in chaos and hope in despair?  We can eat of the spiritual food to extrude strength, courage and resolve.  We can be renewed and restored for any situation that comes.  We can trust and give thanks to you for the gifts and for sustaining us in our hour of need.

Thank you,

Compassionate God,

for the gifts

of your spirit.

Thank you

for your provision.

Thank you

for keeping

faith alive.

Yours, Andrea

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Dear God,

Two days ago I had surgery.  I had to rely on doctors, nurses and technicians to totally care for me in the operating room.  I had to surrender my need to control all elements of my life.  I simply had to let go.

Although these were things I needed to do in order to have surgery, I realize today that these are actions I need to take daily.  I need to begin my day in surrender, prayer and trust.  I need to release all my foolish notions of control.  I need to let go to you all day long and as I lay my head down at the end of the day, I need simply to say thank you.

You are God;

there is none

like you.

Teach me

to begin

and end

each day

with you,

Living God.

Lead me

to you,

I pray.

Yours, Andrea

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Dear God,

The dancing Autumn leaves challenge me to become as obedient and free as they.  The tree and subsequently the leaves fulfill your will for their existence.  They remain quiet all winter.  They bud and blossom in the spring.  They offer beauty all summer long.  And in the fall they dance.  Before long they will surrender their dependence on the tree and fall only to die and live again a few months later.

Faith is not much different.  Faith like the leaves unfolds in listening and following.  It is fueled by trust in the One whose creative love makes all things possible.  It seeks to fulfill the desire of their creator.  It works with all the forces designed to help and to guide.  It blesses, inspires and challenges.  It brings joy to its creator and to the one who dances in the fall.

Thank you,

Holy God,

for the lesson

of the leaves.

Thank you

for their beauty,

willingness and hope.

Thank you

for their ability

to teach.

Yours, Andrea

Monday, October 17, 2022

Dear God,

In a few hours I will have surgery.  While I believe I am in good hands, I still feel some anxiety.  But such times call for greater trust and deeper faith.

Thank you,

dear Father,

for your 

loving kindness 

and your promise

to be present

with us

in every situation.

Today I

give you myself

once again.

I want 

to surrender

into your hands.

I am yours.

Thank you.

Love, Andrea 

Sunday, October 16, 2022

Dear God,

Frequently when I do worship on zoom, I cannot always understand the lyrics sung by the choir.  While that can be disappointing, I find myself being moved, touched and inspired by the music itself.  I close my eyes and listen with both my ears and my heart.  Oftentimes your "word" comes to me and I am drawn in to you.

Such moments remind me how you use simple, ordinary things to teach us lessons of faith. Everything does not have to be perfect in order for you to speak to us.  You invite us in, O Lord, and there at your knee you teach us.

Thank you

for the gift

of your word.

Thank you

for sharing

your word

with me

this morning.

I am blessed.

Yours, Andrea

Saturday, October 15, 2022

Dear God,

I love to look at the pictures sitting on my desk.  Pictures of children, in-laws, grandchildren, aunts and friends, I realize how blessed I am.  When I think of each one, I think of memories with them, shared experiences and love offered.  I am so grateful for them all.

Looking at my loved ones inspires me to think of the one who loves most and best.  I think of you, Loving God for you are the author and creator of love.  I think of times when I have been unlovable but you have loved me anyway.  Your love gives me a sense of belonging but also it challenges me to be loving myself.  When times are tough, I rely on the fact that you are love, dear God, and your love will hold me and see me through every moment in life.  I am grateful for this gift too.

Compassionate God,

you are full

of love

because you 

are love.

Thank you

for the reminder today.

Although I

could never

out love you,

nevertheless, I

do love you.

Yours, Andrea

Friday, October 14, 2022

Dear God,

You are always at work in human lives.  You whisper and nudge us, letting us know you are with us.  You invite us in closer.  You make it possible for us to be guided by you.  When we willingly say yes, we unite our lives with yours.  We bond together and walk as one.

As I approach surgery next week, I feel somewhat anxious.  At the same time I believe there is no moment that we are alone without you.  Thoughts of surgery draw me nearer to you as I acknowledge my own fear.  With you, however, there is no need for fear or anxiety

Thank you,

Loving God,

for your

tender care.

Thank you

for blessing us

with your presence.

Thank you

for reminding me

of our relationship.

Love, Andrea

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Dear God,

I love the time of day just before first light.  I love the darkness perhaps because I can see your light better then.  When I think of the dark times in my life, I automatically think of the countless ways your light shined bright.  I always think of you when I recall painful times.  You were always present bringing your light to me.

I think of times when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, faced family estrangement, had a mystery illness that took years to resolve and dealt with a difficult divorce, to name a few.  Your light was so bright in my darkness.

Those dark and light times always inspire me to give thanks and to sing your praise.  Why wouldn't I love the darkness just before the light!

Compassionate God,

your presence

always brings light.

Thank you

for every gift

of your spirit.

Thank you

for reminding us

that darkness

is not 

really darkness

after all.

Yours forever, Andrea

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

Dear God,

Unexpected surprises invite us to whisper our prayers of thanksgiving to you.  When a local church was told I was having surgery, they emailed me to tell me they wanted to bring food during my recovery.  I was touched by their loving support.

Every day you bring us wondrous surprises.  Large or small, it doesn't matter.  Your handprint is on each one.  When we open our eyes and listen for your voice, we can receive the gifts you offer.

Thank you,

Loving God,

for your 

many gifts.

Thank you

for touching

our lives.

Thank you

for Good Samaritan Church.

Yours, Andrea

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

Dear God,

Right now the moon is playing peek a boo in the sky.  It has been full and beautiful the last few days.  But right now the clouds are moving over it covering it from sight.

The picture in the sky reminds me of another time when I was facing very difficult issues.  Life was hard on multiple fronts.

I was flying home.  It was a particularly gray day just like my mood.  There were layers of clouds the higher we climbed.  But at some point we broke through the clouds where the skies were blue and sun, big and round and bright.  I heard your whisper to me.  "The light is always shining.  You may not see it but it is always present."  

I learned a lesson that day.  Although all we see is darkness, the light still shines.  When we trust the light, we trust in you, Holy Father.

Thank you

for lessons

of faith.

Thank you

for the light,

its hope,

warmth and help.

Thank you

for giving me

the moon

this morning.

Love, Andrea

Monday, October 10, 2022

Dear God,

Today an arborist told me we needed to cut down the tall blue spruce at the corner of our home.  That tree has been with us for more than 30 years.  However, a fungus has made it beyond help.  I love that tree.

Simple everyday things teach us lessons of faith.  Like Koheleth said in the book of Ecclesiastes, "There is a time and season for all things."  When we pay attention to all things around us, we can learn from you.

Good Teacher,

you intend

for us

to grow

in faith

and understanding.

You create moments

where you

teach us lessons.

Beloved, learn

from me,

you say.

When we listen,

truly listen,

you teach us.

Thank you.

Yours, Andrea

Sunday, October 9, 2022

Dear God,

When ten people see the same thing, how come some see things on the surface while others see something extraordinary?  What does it take for us to see more?

It seems faith can help us see deeper and wider.  It can persuade us to take a second or third look or invite us to look beyond the simple picture to something more.  Our hearts can be stirred, our souls moved and our minds challenged.  

I remember a particularly challenging time when I looked up into the sky and saw the bright moon and twinkling stars.  But another look while praying inspired me to see you and I dancing among the stars and planets.  I recall feeling such joy and wonder.  

It was a time when I felt lonely and forgotten.  Just recently diagnosed with cancer, I felt stuck in fear.  I yearned for peace.  The vision gave me just what I needed.

Loving God,

thank you

for drawing us close

in difficult times.

Thank you

for inspiring me

to look again.

Thank you

for unexpected gifts

and beautiful surprises.

Love, Andrea

Saturday, October 8, 2022

Dear God,

The Autumn leaves are amazingly beautiful this year.  The reds, oranges, yellows and golds stand out among the white, blue and gray skies.  And the trees seem more majestic than ever.  They are a reminder of your wondrous grandeur!

I can't help but be entranced by the beauty of your extraordinary creation.  It was you who made the trees and skies.  It was you who created each leaf deciding long ago what color to paint.  It was you who made the gentle breeze that persuades the leaves to dance in the wind.  All that is left is for us to enjoy, celebrate and give praise.

Thank you,

Amazing Creator,

for the gift

of Autumn.

Thank you

for the

seasonal beauty

that proclaims

your praise.

Thank you

for the gifts

just outside

my study window!

Forever yours, Andrea

Friday, October 7, 2022

Dear God,

I look outside my study window and I see only darkness but I know by faith the light will come.  The sun will rise.  The sky will be blue or gray and clouds will appear.  By nightfall the moon will shine and stars will twinkle.  I know all this will take place.

It is out of this faith that hope and peace and joy are born.  When rough times come and they always do, all seems dark and bleak.  At the same time we know that light will again appear giving warmth, hope and life.

When I think of dark occasions in my own life, I remember anxiety and fear and sometimes even hopelessness.  But I cannot think of these without remembering the light that followed, light that brought healing, wonder, encouragement, courage and faith.  And always, always, love.

You are God;

there is none

like you.

Thank you,

Holy Father,

for your light

and your love.

With all

that I am,

I praise you.

Yours, Andrea

Thursday, October 6, 2022

Dear God,

One of the oriental grasses in my contemplative garden seeded another plant in front of my study window.  Because they are well rooted and difficult to eradicate, I really want it gone.  After many years in my garden, I wonder how it rooted and popped up here.

That raised the spiritual question of what I seed and where.  Do I sow seeds of love and they spread and grow?  Or do I sow seeds of mistrust, anger and bitterness?  Have they spread as well?  What am I sowing?  Will it be as difficult to remove as the unwanted grass?  How much harm has it done?

Thank you

for the message

that has come

from unwanted grass

in my garden.

Teach me 

always to watch

and listen.

Thank you

for the blessing

of the grass.

Yours, Andrea

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Dear God,

As I pulled into the Starbucks parking lot, I noticed something white falling from the sky.  When the wind picked up, it moved around and fell unto the car.  It was then I realized it was a tiny, white feather.  And that brought to mind a sweet memory for me.

Many years ago I participated in a spiritual workshop entitled, "A Feather on the Breath of God" at a local seminary.  Using wisdom from Teresa of Avila, we meditated, contemplated and danced to her words and music.  Born in 1515 she became a Carmelite nun, prominent Spanish mystic, religious reformer and so much more.  She brought distinction to her own life, work and faith.  Although that was 500 years ago, her Christian witness still touches willing recipients.  Today she inspired me.

Holy God,

thank you

for holy,

mystical moments

when you

bless our lives.

I am touched

you blessed mine today.

Thank you

for Teresa

and all

she continues

to do

for those willing

to receive.

Yours, Andrea

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Dear God,

 

A statue of St. Francis stands a few feet away just outside my study window.  Every day when I am here I gaze out upon him and give thanks.

I met this kindly monk in my dreams more than 50 years ago.  Then I knew him as John.  For years I felt his spirit within me guiding me toward hope, love and peace.

One day while staying at a Catholic sister's residence for a time of exploration about my marriage, my brokenness and loss, I saw a large poster of the village of Assisi.  I felt a huge nudge to travel there.  That was about 30 years ago.

In 2005 my church and I received a Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Grant.  Assisi was one of the areas I elected to visit.  While there for several days, I learned St. Francis was first named John when he was born.  When his father returned after his birth, he changed his name to Francis.  

Through visions, contemplation and prayer Francis and I communicated together.  Although he never spoke in my dreams, I always knew what he was thinking or wanted to say to me.  It was the same when I visited Assisi and Rieti where he traveled.  It was a holy time, one I cherished and will never forget.

Thank you,

Loving God,

for Francis,

for his witness

faith and challenge.

Thank you

for every blessing

and inspiration

he has

given me.

Thank you,

dear God,

for bringing him

into my life.

Yours forever, Andrea

Monday, October 3, 2022

Dear God,

Why do some people come into our lives and stay while others move on?  What hand do you have in blessing us with people who lodge themselves in our souls and stay a lifetime?

Jan, Susan and Bill, my covenant group, carved a spot in my heart and took up residence nearly 30 years ago.  They are loving, steadfast, wise, helpful and compassionate.  They hold me accountable and challenge, bless and inspire me.  They expect me to grow and change, be transformed by your spirit and they guide me to take steps into the next chapter of my ongoing life. Their gentle nudges, honest words and kind ways keep me moving closer and closer to you in every area of my life.  I cannot imagine my life without them.

Thank you,

Holy, Eternal God,

for Susan,

Bill and Jan.

My, how

I love them.

Thank you

for bringing them

into my life

and convincing them

to stay.

I will forever

be grateful.

Yours, Andrea

Sunday, October 2, 2022

Dear God,

I could not help but weep when the preacher preached the word regarding "truth."  My tears came because it is hard to know the truth in today's society.  Politicians are the worst when it comes to fudging the truth.  Some actually make things up or change the narrative leaving us wondering what the truth really is.  Yet, I am reminded of the words of Jesus when he said, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free."  Do people lie so we will not find the freedom we so long for?

This morning the sermon gave me hope to believe that truth does exist and it still offers freedom.  We too, each of us, need to be discerning. Is the truth spoken out of love?  Is it inclusive? Does it offer freedom for all?  Such questions help us to discover the truth you want us to know.

Thank you

for our

morning preacher,

O Lord.

Thank you

for helping us

see the way.

Thank you

for reminding us

that truth

is all important

and that

we are called

to offer

the truth

to others

and to you.

Love, Andrea 

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Dear God,

Outside my study window is a beautiful scene of green oriental grass with a white stripe down the middle and oatmeal and chocolate color plumes on top.  The least little breeze causes the tall stems to dance in the wind.  This is their time and season to shine, to display their quiet uniqueness and lovely beauty.  Only in the fall when other plants are dying back does this plant bring joy and hope.

I am always amazed at creation's work.  Plants come and go.  Spring brings tulips, daffodils and hyacinths.  Summer brings hostas, day lillies and roses.  But it is Autumn time when colors suddenly shine everywhere.  I can't help but pause, smile and give thanks.

Loving Creator,

thank you

for the beauty

all around.

Thank you

for your

special design

in Fall.

You are God;

there is none

like you.

Yours, Andrea

Friday, September 30, 2022

Dear God,

Small red berries have appeared on the tree just outside our study window.  I remember when the tree was bare but laden with snow.  Then in the spring, tiny buds formed and then beautiful pink flowers.  The tree grew all summer extending her branches and roots.  As I gaze upon her now, I realize she has gone nearly full circle.  Soon the birds will eat all the berries, the leaves will turn and fall to the ground.  Once again the amazing tree will be bare.

I love to watch the sacred rhythm of our very special tree.  She does exactly what she was created to do.  She listens and hears your voice.  She grows, she produces, she lets down her roots, she reaches toward heaven and she sways in the breeze.  She soaks up the rain and the sunshine. She makes space for the birds and blesses all who watch her.  We are all blessed.

Thank you

for the

sacred rhythm

given to 

each person,

the trees

and all

who listen

for your voice

and then

does the work

of creation.

Thank you

for the inspiration

all are

who listen

and act

and bless.

Yours, Andrea

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Dear God,

There is something profound about arriving home.  Home, a supreme place of belonging, a sacred place, a place where peace, hope and joy reside.  When I drove into our driveway, I sensed all these.  I was glad to be home.

But when I hear the word "home," I think of so much more.  I think of you, for that is where my true home is, with you.  I told my covenant group, who will eventually lead my memorial service, to tell those gathered that I had to leave for home.  It seems appropriate and right.

Thank you

for your

warm welcome.

Thank you

for the invitation

to be

at home

with you.

Although my body

does not 

seem ready

to leave,

my heart,

mind and soul

are always ready.

Thank you,

Holy and Loving God.

Yours, Andrea

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Dear God,

As I drove along the road, I saw a middle-aged man carrying groceries.  On his tee shirt was written, "Don't trust anyone."  I wondered about his story.  What caused him to grab hold of that shirt?  Why wear it?  Who broke his trust?  How alone does that man feel?

I know people sometimes let us down.  There are those whose promises don't ring true.  People do break our trust.  But what does that have to say about faith?  Isn't faith built primarily on trust?

O God,

please reveal yourself

to the

lonely man

on the street.

Help him

find you.

Touch him

with your love,

I pray.

Love, Andrea