Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Dear God,

Sometimes we have to leave home in order to return home.  When we forget our roots or become bored or lazy or indifferent, we need to walk away, take a few steps on pilgrimage and begin to listen anew.  Your voice can reach us, your love can embrace us and your challenge can open new doors.  As we walk, our perspective can change, our demeanor can be transformed and our lives can take on new meaning and purpose.

There is no place like home but when we lose touch with the depth of home, we can lose touch with what is so important in our lives.  Our need to leave for a while is often a call for change and renewal.  When we can acknowledge your whispers to take a walk, we are ready for all the gifts to be found along the way.

I shall never forget my clergy renewal leave where I did leave home for three-and-a-half months.  During that time I heard your voice like never before.  I felt your presence as close as my breath.  You opened the door to my faith that had filled with cobwebs.  You invited me on a long journey and the lessons I learned and the love I received transformed me.  Although this happened 18 years ago, I remember like yesterday.  I am still filled with much gratitude, hope and joy!!!

Thank you,

Gracious God,

for the gift

of home.

Thank you

for taking us away

so we

can return afresh.

Thank you

for unexpected gifts

and lovely

turns and twists.

Yours forever, Andrea