Mary, did you know?

I am enjoying this Christmas morning. They skies are bright and sunny. There is a calm just presently in the city. And my mind and heart are stirred to praying for the nations. As is common with me, I'm reflecting back over times when I've stood in deep moments of prayer, in different places in the world. Kwanzaa candles, a Menorah and a Christ Candle help set the mood. The flames against the brightly lit snow still have a sparkle. They remind me that today is a day to remember the joy that comes when the gift of the Holy Spirit is received.

I pray you enjoy family today, however that is defined for you. That you are reminded of the Life if Christ. And that you freely receive all that was given to you in love.

As for me, I'm drawing closer to Jesus, Joseph, and Mary, and I'm asking questions about how they really lived their life on earth...

This video reflects those thoughts, and prayers. The song is one I've loved for years, and the images are from the movie, The Passion.

Merry Christmas all. May the Lord Bless you and keep you.

Prayer....

These words are from an old book on the mass... but it speaks my heart tonight. Will you join me in praying for the nations, for our Church? I pray these words touch your heart as they did mine. May they echo in your spirit as you read them:


Lord, it is not for myself alone I now do pray,
for selfish prayer is scarce a prayer at all;
But for all these, Your people, seen and unseen,
for those who bear Your blessed Sign, for these I pray;

Nor do I now forget those others who know You not,
or who, knowing, have forsaken Your way:
For we are one in You.

With all these, then, I join in that appointed invocation
which Your church does place upon our lips today;
For to each day is given its own singular fashion
wherewith to praise You and to pray to You;
That praying thus our lasting wish may come to be
And we may grasp that which alone abides.

From an undivided heart, and in child-like spirit,
To all these prayers I do myself unite,
As Your church in due humility does now pour out
inwords of plain and forceful sense,
Humanity's fear of oppression, famine, evil deeds,
and its need of the dew of Your Love.

Thus guided by the saints whom we do now recall,
Be they close or distant, familiar or scarce known,
I join the age-long cloud of witnesses
in ranks unbroken and unceasing,
While with these lips You've given me, I frame the Church's prayer
And strive to reach the foot of Your Eternal Throne.


סלה
Psalm 84

Sweetly Broken...

"Called out of death, and into life."

This song, and many of the images in this video reflect many moments from this past year.

Many of those moments shaped my heart - breaking me - and helping me love just a little bit better. I pray you have moments along the path, under trees, with flowers....holding onto crosses...

Jesus, draw me gently to my knees, let me be fully surrendered.

I'll be sweetly broken...

Psalm 103

Deep places...

If you sometimes wonder why it takes me so long to write a post... well, I could say it is because I'm really busy with work, or that life in general has consumed me once again.

But that isn't often the reason. While life does get very busy, the space between posts is more likely to mean that I'm processing something deep that is going on in my heart.

I was in this spot recently, and was profoundly moved by what I saw, felt, and heard. There really are no words to say how deeply this place touched my heart.
I didn't plan on making a pilgrimage that day, I was just being a tourist on the east coast of this country that I love. I asked the Lord to show me his heart for his people...and He led me here.

Isaiah 43

1 But now, this is what the LORD says:
He who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.

3 For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
Cush and Seba in your stead.

4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you,
I will give men in exchange for you,
and people in exchange for your life.

5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you;
I will bring your children from the east
and gather you from the west.

6 I will say to the north, 'Give them up!'
and to the south, 'Do not hold them back.'
Bring my sons from afar
and my daughters from the ends of the earth -

7 everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made."

8 Lead out those who have eyes but are blind,
who have ears but are deaf.

9 All the nations gather together
and the peoples assemble.
Which of them foretold this
and proclaimed to us the former things?
Let them bring in their witnesses to
prove they were right, so that others may hear
and say, "It is true."

10 "You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.

11 I, even I, am the LORD,
and apart from me there is no savior.

On distant shores....

When I'm at work, my days are scattered. The bombardment of questions starts pretty much as soon as I arrive, and ends only when either I leave or the others get tired of waiting in line. Seems strange to me (I'm an accountant). If I was in a call center I'd understand.

Thankfully, even with the chaos in the markets, I have a reprive for a few days. Friends of mine are getting married this weekend ... and as a result I get to step away from the office for a few days and even get to spend time near deep waters.... and let my mind rest for a bit, and my body too. And of course, see a beautiful couple exchange their vows before God.

While I'm sure there will be lots of time to engage with friends, I plan on getting some much needed alone time with the Lord. I'll sit somewhere, with the scriptures and play a few worship Cds. At the moment, there is no journal in my purse to capture notes. I may pick up one along the way, but I'm thinking it's time to just listen.

One of my very favorite things is to get really still, and just hear the rythm of the wind and the waves blend with my heartbeat. I'm thankful and excited to do just that this weekend, with family and friends.

For however you choose to spend Thanks Giving, I hope it's with people you treasure and full of activities you truly enjoy.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Psalm 97

The saints among us....

I like these old polish saints. This quote is from Sister Mary Faustina: "Neither graces, nor revelations, nor raptures, nor gifts granted to a soul make it perfect, but rather the intimate union of the soul with God. These gifts are merely ornaments of the soul, but constitute neither its essence nor its perfection. My sanctity and perfection consist in the close union of my will with the will of God" (Diary 1107).

I would like to visit the chapel near Krakow. Maybe it's just nostalgia given my polish family roots. Even so the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy at Lagiewniki seems like a beautiful place to visit.

guardian angels...

"May the angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem."
http://www.therecord.com/news/obituaries/obituaries2020_5252962.html

Shalom....this 'black September'.

It's been an exciting time in the markets this year. All kinds of interesting rumours, and even more interesting polical commentary. Even so, the days tick buy and fear takes over revealing what is underneath the capital structures that support our economies.

So Sept 29, Rosh Hashahah and the day to mark 'Black September'. Has me thinking about what the year will bring, both to our finances, and our families.

For me, I'm not worried...but I am curious...and it will be an interesting winter.

Shalom.
Happy New Year.
& many blessings.

It's Time...

Seasons always get me thinking of how quickly time keeps passing....but this phrase: "it's time" has been present with me a lot these days, for most of the year actually. And throughout the last 8 years, if my story was told in full.

Here are some of the interesting moments this week where those words are catching my attention:

• times for my flight to see friends this weekend
• some friends saying 'it's time' to get married
• my schedule for implementing a project that keeps slipping at work, the ever present...'tick tick tick' with getting everything done...
• that it was time to replace my garage door (thankfully the door didn't hit me or my car)
• that it's time to deal with certain family matters

and perhaps the most profound, from today...

I was talking with my mom about my uncle. He's quite ill (bone cancer). We're hoping he sees his birthday (Oct 2) and is well enough for visitors with those who know him well. The funeral arrangements have been made....and even the death certificate is filled out. The only missing piece of information is the final date and the time...and of course the appropriate signatures.

All of that has me thinking and praying again...

Our time here is so fleeting. So, I pray you make the most of each day, and each moment, with each friend and loved one, including Jesus.

And if lately, you haven't made time for your friends, or Jesus...

It's time.


+++

Breathing...

It's hard to think when you gasp for air. Not if certain you know what that is like, but it isn't fun. It's something I've struggled with for many years.

I used to get quite worried when I would have trouble breathing, so sometimes the inability to think clearly is a blessing when I have those troubles now. I don't worry. I don't even try to really think. At best, I just focus on what little air gets into my lungs and marvel at how the body turns oxygen into a life force....in and through our blood stream.

Many days, breathing is a conscious effort for me. Yesterday however, with the change in season it seems, I surprised myself because I realized I wasn't having to think about it. Something had changed at one point during the day and I could just breathe....so good.

I don't want to take gifts for granted...but it is truly a blessing not to have to think about such a simple task. It really frees up the mind (and body) to focus on other things.

Hoping for more of the same today.

Isa. 49.9-13

Prayer for today....ccc1091

Holy Spirit, teacher of prayer,
you lead us to pray in thanksgiving
for the Father's countless blessings;
you help us to respond with our
own blessings of thanks and praise.

Spirit of the promise,
you prepare us to meet Jesus in the liturgy,
awakening faith, peparing hearts to be fertile soil
where good seed can take root.

Spirit of truth,
you make God's word come alive for us,
unfolding its meaning and significance
so that it becomes an encounter with the living Word,
Jesus, in whom we see the Father.

Breath of life,
you breathe life into every liturgical celebration
so that it becomes what it represents,
and we are made participants, not spectators,
in the saving mysteries.

Spirit of Christ,
you gather God's scattered children together into
the one Body of Christ.
you live in us as a burning flame of love
to help us offer our lives as a living sacrifice
and bear lasting fruit in your service.

+++

praying...over milk...

I spent some time at a small dairy farm over the weekend. It was amazing actually. I have always loved walking among the cows in the fields. Fun to see them also in the barns. Cows, are quite curious.....

Even as wonderful as it was to take a break at the farm, it was hard not to think of the mom's and dad's and the little ones in China. Praying for those families... and the leaders making all the decisions as well.

13,000 and counting...

For much wisdom, peace...tonight, and in the days to come.

Happy new year...(in September)

September is my 'new year'. For a lot of reasons. But every year, for as long as I can remember, something happens when I smell ripening apples on the wind and see the cornstalks start to yellow. My whole body quickens when I see the fullness in the fields and begin to anticipate the harvest. It becomes the time for me to review the year that is passing, and plan for the next.

Tonight, my eyes were filled with these things: the harvest moon, the chill in the air, a few stressed trees that already burning brightly (about a month or so before the others give up their green), summer flowers slowly fading, and harvest flowers that just beginning to bud.

Being in the garden tonight was beautiful....and daunting.

I didn't get to tend my roses this summer, so they are very overgrown. The buds are still quite full on some of them. The butterfly bushes are almost finished but they are still full of bees, and butterflies....monarchs just finishing up their season. Hummingbirds have long since flown away. The ladybugs haven't quite begun their march....

There is a quiet hush that comes into my spirit when I step into my backyard. I can spend hours there. Just listening to the hum of creation in the tiny garden that is 'mine'.

I'm no green thumb - that's my mom's role when she drops by once a week. She helps me manage what I can't seem to get done. All but the roses. And this year, they are too much for either of us.

September is time to start making plans for next year. What do we transplant? How do we prepare for the winter? What kind of flowers do we want for spring? and when is the best time to plant those bulbs? What's in the forecast? And what busyness is on the calendar? The good news is that plants are very forgiving when we don't quite get it right....

So, it's in that rhythm of planting during the harvest that captures my spirit.

Patterns of sowing and reaping.
Planting while harvesting.
Planning the next season,
while taking in the beauty of the present.

And the sweet smell on the wind,
is one of change...

They all blend to make me ask this question, from a place that in my heart that is more real than I'm used to really saying... yes Lord, what is your will?

Usually, it's just then that my eyes turn upward and I see birds inverting their spring formations as they gather before nesting at dusk. Flying in circles for the time being, but many will soon be on their way to warmer places. Until then, their evening dances catch my attention...and I enjoy their company.

So, tonight, I'm thinking 'new year' thoughts. I'm not certain how well I've walked out this past year. But I'm thankful for the deep moments with friends, family...and especially with Jesus.

As I look forward, I'm again seeking change.
There is just so much more to life.

So much more to learn.

SO much for to give thanks.
And I'm praying that as this next year arrives, I'll find new joy, and new hope.
... and new dreams.

Psalm 103

Far away places...

These kids were such a joy to be with. It's been a couple of years since I've heard their laughter now. It's actually been a couple of years since I've been in any class room.

I miss it.

It's hard to admit that.

I've been waiting for a friend to arrive from Africa for a while now. It's still several weeks before she arrives and I will only get a very short time with her while she is here. But anticipating her visit has me thinking about some other travels and school rooms I've been blessed to see in full swing. She has been building a school for nearly 10 years, and it opened last year. It is my dream to go there and see the kids. Maybe even try my hand at the blackboard again...even if just for a season.


Maybe next year.

In the meantime, these are some of the kids who are on my heart... precious girls in Indonesia. Thanks to corporate sponsorship, this school is doing very well.

That model is something that has me thinking. How can we do get more corporations adopting and funding schools? It seems to work so well for those who are fortunate enough to attend one of these schools.

Just thinking, and hopefully praying more about this tonight.

Luke 18:16

Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

September 5, 2008 (1910-1997)

Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the tiny woman recognized throughout the world for her work among the poorest of the poor, was beatified October 19, 2003.

Her love knew no bounds. Nor did her energy, as she crisscrossed the globe pleading for support and inviting others to see the face of Jesus in the poorest of the poor. In 1979 she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. On September 5, 1997, God called her home.

She has earned the right to be called blessed. May we learn from her, her heart and also from the words she's left us.


(Mother Teresa composed this prayer for the United Nations International Year of the Family)

"Heavenly Father, you have given us a model of life in the Holy Family of Nazareth. Help us, O loving Father to make our family another Nazareth where love, peace and joy reign. May it be deeply contemplative, intensely Eucharistic and vibrant with joy. Help us to stay together in joy and sorrow through family prayer. Teach us to see Jesus in the members of our family especially in their distressing disguise. May the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus make our hearts meek and humble like His and help us to carry out our family duties in a holy way. May we love one another as God loves each one of us more and more each day, and forgive each other's faults as You forgive our sins. Help us, O loving Father to take whatever You give and to give whatever You take with a big smile. Immaculate Heart of Mary, cause of our joy, pray for us. St. Joseph, pray for us. Holy Guardian Angels be always with us, guide and protect us. Amen."

Remembering...

Hard to imagine the distance of 18 years.

http://www.therecord.com/news/obituaries/obituaries2030_5232407.html

Life is so brief, and so frail.
May we all choose to live more freely and fully...

We are his...

A friend sent these lyrics to me today. Her friend wrote them...(CD is just newly out: check out Karla Adolphe: Enter the Cirlce of Worship: Chair and Microphone Vol3). Even though I have yet to hear the song, her words encourage me:

maybe i don't have the strength
maybe i don't have the faith
you brought me here in forty years
when i know this trip should take a week
i've shed my tears and shed my blood
been outran some by the flood
and winter steals my songs away
in all of this i've come undone

when you walk through the water
i will be with you
when you pass through the river
those waves they will not overtake you
when you walk on the fire
those flames they will not touch you
you are mine
you are mine

i've been a child
i've been a slave
and i've grown bitter
and learned to pray
i've packed my bags and started back
the cost is just too high to pay

when you walk through the water
i will be with you
when you pass through the river
those waves they will not overtake you
when you walk on the fire
those flames they will not touch you
you are mine
you are mine

you are mine

[We are His. Psalm 63. My soul thirsts for him. We are His. We belong to Him.]

Surprises in little packages...

Today was a challenging day at work. A project hasn't been going well. Extra long hours, covering vacations. Still trying to bring things back on track. Daily check points. All of that.

So, at the end of this crazy day there were three little packages in the mail. Not the one I was looking for, but part of the story that seems to be unfolding. A gift from Israel, and a couple of other little fun things. Reminders of the bigger picture...

"And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires you to fear him, to live according to his will, to love and worship him with all your heart and soul, and to obey the Lord's commands and laws that I am giving you today for your own good." Dueteronomy 10:12-13

Seasons of change...

In many ways, wherever you attend church, there is always talk of the seasons changing. That God is doing something new and fresh. We pray for fresh wind or fresh fire to fall upon us. We pray to be included in whatever that new thing is going to be. We get excited and are drawn into the future.

Recently, I've heard myself saying some of those words as well. Several of my friends are dreaming prophetic dreams and hearing from the Lord in new ways. That is there testimony. Their dreams are quite profound, intensely detailed and courageously described, so I believe they are more than just the psychologial working out of my friends' unresolved emotions. But I'm finding myself looking for the interpretation as well. Not just of the details of my friends' dreams, but why there seems to be an increase in this activity? Why are there so few who can interpret these dreams? Why we are left with the excitement and curiosity that there must be some deeper meaning? (Where is Joseph or Daniel these days?)

Prehaps my friends have just reached an age in their lives (or spiritual journeys) where we want something new, something different than the routines we've created for ourselves. Perhaps the dreams stem from that...but there is a lot of buzz these days, or there seems to be about certain angels and other spiritual conversations.

The book called The Shack has many people talking about conversations with Jesus, Father God, and Holy Spirit. I'm glad for that dialogue. I'm glad for the dialogue about dreams, and visions...and seasons of change.

But I'm mindful that the seasons have always changed. Every few months they change, as the earth spins around the sun. Has every generation seen these winds of change? Do some pick up on them and others don't? What sparked the changes in our worship led by Charles Wesley, or Martin Luther (or whomever you would choose to name)? And were their views bringing new vitality to the church, or division?

I'm just really learning some basic church history. Individually Charles and Martin (and many others) are thoroughly impressive. And as much as some of their teachings echo the 'seasons of change' that seem to be upon us again, I'm caught between wanting something new myself, and seeing the benefits of the simple life...and a simple routine....where the change is in my understanding rather than the world around me.

The particular quote that follow has haunted me for a little over two years now. It was shouted out by a random fellow in Toronto's business district...over and over again, until it struck a cord deeply in my spirit (and perhaps several of those standing with me): "What day is this?"

"What day is this?"

Eventually, that fellow was forceably removed. But I'm thankful to have stood in that moment, listening to his cry, because his words helped me through so many of the dark days since then.

Since that day, I've stopped looking for the seasons of change and started appreciating the beauty of God in the little moments in each day. Fresh Mana. New every morning. Especially... as... the seasons change.

This is the Lord the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)

Only a person who risks is free....

(read this today...it has me thinking....)

• To laugh is to risk being a fool.
• To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
• To reach out to another is to risk involvement.
• To express feelings is to risk exposing your true self.
• To place your idea's and your dreams before the crowd is to risk their loss.
• To love is to risk not being loved in return.
• To live is to risk dying.
• To hope is to risk despair.
• To try is to risk failure.
• The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing.
• They may avoid suffering and sorrow, but they simply cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love or live.
• Risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.
• Only a person who risks is free.

Summer Reading List....

(In no particular order:)

- The Tipping Point - Malcom Gladwell
- The Challenge of Jesus - N.T. Wright
- Evil and Justice of God - N.T. Wright
- The Attentive Life - Leighton Ford
- New Birth or Re-birth - Ravi Zacharias
- Girl Meets God - Lauren F. Winner
- Well-Intentioned Dragons - Marshall Shelley
- In the Vineyard of the Lord - Marco Bardazzi


I've started several others. Not certain which ones will get finished.
Not worried about it. I read what I can absorb...

I have a few more on the list. Mostly books loaned or given to me by friends.

Seems that I'm slower at turning the pages these days...
but that's okay. I have some of these on CD!

[..and don't worry. The scriptures come first.]


Happy reading all!

Jesus...

How is it that we miss you in the simplest of moments?
How is it that we long for you, and yet cannot touch you?

You are the creator of all that is good
You are the light and hope of our dreams
You know us
and yet
you choose
to meet
us

because you love us

still...

"Lord, we are not worthy to receive you.
Jesus, i am not worthy to receive you...
but only say the word and i will be healed."


Today, I heard the confession of a man who is free of a 20+ year struggle with a particular addiction. It wrecked his life, though he deeply loved Jesus throughout his journey. He taught me much about mercy. In his talk, he spoke of this psalm....and that psalm quietly touches my heart tonight...and I'm thinking that even thought i repent of sin, I am clean. Such a strange contrast. Joy in Christ, knowing full well, that judgement is warranted...and yet, there is grace....sufficient, even for me...bless you tonight... or whenever you read this...

I pray you know the deep love of Jesus Christ.

Psalm 51

simple things...

Tonight I'm very tired. Work has been challenging lately. A key
project has not gone well, and has to be re-planned again. Success
is a must, but the deadlines are difficult. And we're all quite tired.
Glad for a break this weekend. It's much needed and long overdue.

My plans are simple - laundry, cleaning, and time in my garden.
Maybe read one of the books on my summer reading list.

Tomorrow is Tisha B'Av, and while I like to follow holy days on
the calendar, I won't follow the ritual fast or other observances.
I will remember with my jewish friends, the destruction of the
holy temple, but I will also think of the resurrection of Christ.
I will think about the return of the 12 scouts from Canaan, and
celebrate with milk, honey, and almonds.

As the world watches events in China, and families wander about their
regular days, I will be quiet, and very much enjoy simple things...

The altars you make for me must be simple altars of earth.
Offer on such altars your sacrifices to me-your burnt offerings
and peace offerings, your sheep and goats and your cattle.
Build altars in the places where I remind you who I am, and
I will come and bless you there ... (Ex.20:24)

Tonight I am praying...

- for friends who seem far away
- for new life, so pink and cute
- for someone celebrating a birthday
- for a dear friend going through a divorce
- for my parents who worry a bit too much
- for my cousin who lives in the north
- for friends in kigali, aceh, malta, macau
- for friends downtown


Jesus, You know the words that will come from my lips before I speak them. They seem so feeble to me sometimes, and yet there is little else I can do when my heart overflows with sentiment for those you have placed in my heart...those near and far...I pray they are your words...For those precious people you've invited me to know. And I pray to know You more...

Praying the Catechism, still...

It's been a busy weekend. Two special visits with dear friends. Sisters in Christ. One was quite long, the other quite short, but both moments really blessed me. Much needed refreshing and rekindling. It was great to simply see them, share hugs, and a few tears.

While I spent much of the rest of the weekend recouperating. I also had to go back into work to deal with a project that isn't going well at the moment. Coming home tonight, getting ready to sleep, I was struck again by this simple prayer book. One of the prayers, jumps off from a short passage of scripture that has been running over and over in my head. (Perhaps this one will eventually land so deep in my spirit, that I really rest in it for a while...).

"Apart from me, you can do nothing..." (Jn 15:5) [CCC2732]


In this little prayer book, the response to this passage is a quote from St. Bernard of Clairvaux:

Draw me after you:

The bride has great need to be drawn onward, and drawn by no other than he who says, "Without me you can do nothing" (Jn15:5)...

She knows that your ways are blessed and that anyone who follows you does not walk in darkness. But if she prays to be drawn onward, it is because she cannot attain to your righteousness on her own strength. She prays... because no one comes to you unless the father draws him (Jn 6:44)....

We often feel like we can accomplish a lot.

In our own strength, we can and do get a lot of things done.

But, unless we are with Jesus... with Him... Him in us, nothing we do is good. Nothing will survive the burning away of the chaff. All we do on our own is wood, hay, and stubble. Perhaps glorious in our own eyes, but ultimately, it's just lifeless dust cast out of the kingdom.

Maybe I'm just taking too long to learn this particular lesson, but I am struck by those few words...still. Tonight I want to be drawn onward toward Him, who is everything.

+++

Jesus, I don't want to do anything without you.
Without you, I am nothing...
With you, I have everything, because of you.

(Psalm 139)

+++

Look up! (Psalm 121)

This picture is from this mornings solar eclipse, over St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia.

I've seen lots of these photos today, from those who were gazing at the sun through special lenses and to beautiful photos of total eclipse. But this partial one is the one that catches my attention. The sun growing dark and the shadows creating this evening-like scene, in a city that captures my imagination....

I'm always curious about who's attention gets drawn to the skies, and what those beautiful pictures mean for them...do they just stare in amazement at the beauty of the heavens? Do they imagine what it's like for science to let us imagine worlds beyond? Do they worship the sun and moon as gods? Or do they know the Jesus, and the Shalom of God?

Today's eclipse started in our Arctic north, and then passed over Greenland, western Siberia, Mongolia and China. The first Russians to witness the eclipse were on the Arctic island of Spitzbergen north of Norway. It's a path to China that I'd rarely consider, even though I once flew from Heathrow to Singapore. And yet today, I find that path comforting. I've imagined today the view from the Heavens towards earth as the globe spins, and so many eyes looking upwards....

And I prayed, for those whose faces stopped to see the uniqueness of this day...and for those who didn't (because of the clouds, or because of disinterest, or more pressing matters that may have consumed them).

I wondered about how Jesus sees and knows each one...
- those turned towards him.
- those who are shielding their eyes with filters
- those who risk seeing, maybe becoming blind physically in the process.
- those who are busy with other things.

I like days like today. They make me think about those who walk this earth with me. And as I trim my hedges, and fix my car, and call some friends... I can remember that there's an entirely different perspective. That we're sharing this rock, in all of it's glorious beauty with so many people. Many tribes, many nations, many tongues. (Isa.45:23)

When I think about that, I'm so thankful...(Isa.45:18)

St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556)

Inspired today by this saint...(and have fond memories of being in Montserrat...think it's time to dig out those spiritual exercises again):

The founder of the Jesuits was on his way to military fame and fortune when a cannon ball shattered his leg. Because there were no books of romance on hand during his convalescence, he whiled away the time reading a life of Christ and lives of the saints. His conscience was deeply touched, and a long, painful turning to Christ began. Having seen the Mother of God in a vision, he made a pilgrimage to her shrine at Montserrat (near Barcelona).

He remained for almost a year at nearby Manresa, sometimes with the Dominicans, sometimes in a pauper's hospice, often in a cave in the hills praying. After a period of great peace of mind, he went through a harrowing trial of scruples. There was no comfort in anything: prayer, fasting, sacraments, penance. At length, his peace of mind returned. It was during this year of conversion that he began to write down material that later became his greatest work, the Spiritual Exercises.

He finally achieved his purpose of going to the Holy Land, but could not remain, as he planned, because of the hostility of the Turks. He spent the next 11 years in various European universities, studying with great difficulty, beginning almost as a
child. Like many others, he fell victim twice to the suspicions of the time, and
was twice jailed for brief periods.

In 1534, at the age of 43, he and six others (one of whom was St. Francis Xavier) vowed to live in poverty and chastity and to go to the Holy Land. If this became impossible, they vowed to offer themselves to the apostolic service of the pope. The latter became the only choice. Four years later Ignatius made the association permanent. The new Society of Jesus was approved by Paul III, and Ignatius was elected to serve as the first general.

When companions were sent on various missions by the pope, Ignatius remained in Rome, consolidating the new venture, but still finding time to found homes for orphans, catechumens and penitents. He founded the Roman College, intended to be the model of all other colleges of the Society. Ignatius was a true mystic. He centered his spiritual life on the essential foundations of Christianity: the Trinity, Christ, the Eucharist.

Thanks for praying....

Romans 3:21-22
Jeremiah 33:6-9
Hebrews: 9:28

I'm always amazed at how many times I can read a passage of scripture and new things come to life for me. I'm amazed that my heart can soften even further to the Word as it seems to leap from the pages of my bible (NLT is the preferred version for me, but I have several I regularly meander through to confirm my understanding).

From time to time, I receive scripture references from friends. From those who love Jesus and feel prompted to send a word or two after they have been praying or thinking of me. There are few things make my day brighter. Partly because of the surprise they bring... and partly because it reminds how easily He can send a clear word, even when I'm not particularly listening...

It shouldn't surprise me really. I've been waken out of bed, or simply stopped in the middle of my busy work day, with a clear impression to pray for someone. Often it's for someone I know...but sometimes its for someone I've never met, and for those in countries and situations that seem so far away. I used to brush those moments aside, wondering about whether it was my imagination....or just a faint recollection from something I'd been reading. But it's more than imagination. More than sentimental notions stemming from fatigue...

I've read several books and notes trying to answer 'why pray?' Some are from the perspective of "what's in it for me?", some from the perspective of theologians directly trying to answer the theorectial questions in a systematic manner. Popular books on the topic and old texts as well. While I'm willing to learn from all of those views, my heart simply enjoys those moments of simple fellowship when honest words are shared as an offering to Jesus.

So, from one of my favourite books:

Christ, the Son of God made man, is the Father's one perfect, and unsurpassable Word. In him he has said everything..... (CCC65)

Jesus, you are the eternal Word of God who comes to meet me in the Scriptures. Jesus, you are the Word made flesh, the bread of life, who nourishes me in the Eucharist. In you, Lord, I have everything.

Jesus is the Word to be spoken.
Jesus is the truth to be told.
Jesus is the was to be walked.
Jesus is the light to be lit.
Jesus is the life to be lived.
Jesus is the love to be loved...
Jesus is my life.
Jesus is my only love.
Jesus is my all in all.
Jesus is my everything.

(from a prayer by Mother Teresa)

A quote from St. Lawrence of Brindisi

I've been away for a few days, visiting with some friends and being in the mountains of Alberta. I'll post again soon. In the meantime, here's something that I've been thinking about:

God is love, and all his operations proceed from love.

Once he wills to manifest that goodness

by sharing his love outside himself,

then the Incarnation becomes

the supreme manifestation

of his goodness and love and glory.

So, Christ was intended

before all other creatures

and for his own sake.

For him all things were created

and to him all things must be subject,

and God loves all creatures in and because of Christ.

Christ is the first-born of every creature,

and the whole of humanity as well as the created world

finds its foundation and meaning in him.

Moreover, this would have been the case

even if Adam had not sinned.

St. Lawrence of Brindisi, Doctor of the Universal Church

Happy Birthday Dad

I'm kind of glad that I don't really have a theme yet for this blog. It leaves me completely open to share the moments from any given day. Today was full of all kinds of busyness....but for a brief few moments I called my dad. He turns 74 today.

I should have sung Happy B-day...we too quickly got into some business (some things just don't change I guess). He was glad just to hear my voice...and that I remembered.

Funny thing is, we just had his party yesterday (for my sister-in-law too). Doesn't matter how old we get, we still get together and exchange gifts. This time it had a different feeling for me. Rather than the formal dinners we sometimes do, it was bbq burgers (the gas even ran out and we finished them on the stove). Salads and corn on the cob. Neices and nephews running around, plates turned over when the wind gushed unexpectedly. Chaos, but fun to hear the 'whoa' in unison as Sarah's plate tumbled off of the deck. Then raspberry picking - the first of the season. Banana cake and icecream for desert.

It was a fun afternoon. A great day with family.

Funny how much home can feel like home, so many years later.

Terracotta Warriors

A friend spoke out this image today during a time of prayer. He was reluctant to share it, but as soon as he started speaking, something stirred in my heart. He had been praying, as others were praying for a variety of nations. We hadn't mentioned China... so this seemed to come up out of the blue. But the more he tried to set it aside, the clearer the impression became for him. He's a shy man, but he felt he just had to speak. And so he did.

He said only a few words. He looked for recognition in someones eyes..."do you know what I mean, those clay soldiers?" A few heads nodded. And then he simply said that he believed it was time for the church to rise up from the dust. He nodded himself, apparently pleased with that being enough said and sat down again.

But his words echoed for me.

A buried army, made with toxins...at the hands of men. Qin's Armies
"Funerary art " ...an immobilized but perfected army...returning to dust.
A very curious world heritage that has me thinking....

As I've meandered through this day, my thoughts drift to all the things in my own life that are like those clay statues. The wood, hay, and stubble that will eventually be burned away.... all those things that are done of myself. Even the words we speak without waiting for the Lord. Those monumental arts commemorating death. My hope is to be more like Joshua. Waiting at the tent of meeting, for the Lord. Not stirring, not saying anything, until He moves.

My prayer today is simply to rise up.
To honour the Holy Spirit that is in me.
Be fully alive in Christ.
And to wait upon the Lord.

(I pray that for you also.)

Psalm 24

This Town

I've been a bit buried by work again. Lots of projects, deadlines galore...and somehow I'm in the middle of a lot of them. Treading water and dealing with the most urgent of the day's crises. When it gets like that, I don't have much time to read the paper, or listen to the news. But this week was a bit different. And I was struck again by a number of articles, and I'm again praying for those I've met downtown.

For a season, I walked and prayed through the streets of our city core. I used to be there a lot. Just walking, praying... even serving meals and worshipping in one of the churches whose goal was just to be a bright spot for those who were rejected in so many ways. The people I met along the way touched my heart. Their stories were often dramatic and sometimes they were just stories. Mostly they were appreciative of someone who would listen, even just for a moment.

The news this week has brought me back to those days, and back to my knees again...

This week I've been praying for:
a) The family and friends of a girl who was found in a motel room. (Good bye Nikki).
b) A 52 year old drummer who was beaten and left on the street. The bus driver, turned good Samaritan who helped him. The two teens who kicked and pounded him with a weight. The two teens who fled the scene.
c) Wellington street residents who have witnessed so much this year.
d) The officers who diligently work for our protection and witness so much in the process.
e) Paramedics who calmly work in difficult moments.

There are others too.
But those are the ones that are on my heart at the moment.

I hope to stop downtown later today. Pray again at the clock tower.

I love this town.

Gifts from Israel...and thoughts of many nations.

Last week I connected with a friend who had recently been in Israel. We haven't had much chance to connect, but when we do it is always so rich. She is a dear sister to me, and we just bubble over each time we meet.

This time we actually had time to sit and talk...for several hours. We shared stories and laughed, and I cried. The waitress we had was amazing. It made me think of other servers who have encountered such visits and their perfect timing with more water...a desert menu...or a cup of tea. We were in my home town this time, at "Jane Bond"...and as the dinner crowd shifted into the student night life we told stories of what Jesus was doing in our lives.

We both had lots to share. Somehow I am still amazed that He is so alive and active in all of our lives, so uniquely with each of us. Sometimes I wonder if that is how it is for everyone knows Him....and I pray that it is. At least it seems that way with each person I've had the chance to visit this year...there seems something so fresh and wonderful. Stories of personal growth and pilgrimage fill the pages of our conversations. I'm usually blessed by the firey new life in their eyes...and I hope my friends see the same in me.

On this particular night, this friend asked me to follow her to her car, just for a minute. Surprise! She produced a little plastic bag and a bottle of wine. Wonderful gifts unceremoniously wrapped... but that made me smile all the more...inside were lovingly hand-selected items...presented with the biggest of smiles...and so much love. She asked me to wait until I got home before peaking inside...which I did. And I'm glad I did.

Inside were several little treasures... including a coffee mug (about all I'll share). But I remember standing in my kitchen as I opened the gifts. I stopped for a long time...just holding my breath. Until I heard the Lord say..."breathe. It's time to breathe".

There were other whispers in those gifts that went straight to my heart as well. Eventually, I heard myself say... "I remember"....and, "Je me souviens". I was surprised to hear both languages (it's been so long since I've spoken French). But in that moment I remembered the many places I've shared coffee with friends on the journey... and the places and people I have yet to see. This friend may not know it, but her gifts to me have helped me hold onto the promises Jesus has whispered to my heart over the years.

Those whispers have been coming in different ways almost every day this past week. When a gift arrived in the mail (a special coin from Israel)... I gave in...and I gave thanks again. Humbled by my doubt when faced with His faithfulness. Surprised at how easily I get wrapped up with distractions, and how consistent the reminders to press in... just to stay on the path, in spite of everything which seems contrary.

I do believe Jesus will take me to some new places. Clearly Israel has been on my heart again. But there are other places I'd like to go as well. In time, as the Lord wills.

So with fond memories of walking on far away shores, and my own precious lands...and dreaming of new places to journey, I'm again celebrating the nations. It's so fun to do that.

Especially this year as we in Canada remember the founding of Quebec City...the birth place of this young but beautiful nation. I enjoyed hearing the bells chiming together last week. All across the provinces and territories, celebrating when foreigners came to these shores. I love hearing bells...they always reminds me of Christmas morning, no matter what season it is...

And with that, I'll leave you with this song...I hope you celebrate Quebec & Canada this week too.

Oh Canada

I'm listening to a broadcast and a number of Canadians mumble their way through the national anthem (mumbling in two languages). But it makes me smile.

I remember celebrating at a local grade school in my home town. I remember being a parade marshall in my university days. I remember sitting with friends other years. But one year still stands out from the others - that year was the first time I celebrated on parliament hill.

I was a co-op student in Ottawa. I was supposed to be working for an oil company in Alberta that summer. But my friend took that job and I went off in another direction. As I sit here tonight, I remember walking through the streets, the massive crowds....and remember one very bold dance troup who split crowds in the street.

It was the most unusual sight amid the balloons and hot dog carts. There was this group, much skilled in mime, but in much more dramatic costume. They portrayed, silently, the passion of Christ. Jesus Christ crucified on the cross. A profound juxtaposition with the festivities of the day. I don't know if the others who watched were affected by their silent but bold proclamation of Jesus, and of God the Father as he looked on his son during the crucifixion. I was deeply moved by the drama before me. Whispers were loudly echoing in my heart the whole time. Twenty years later, it still moves me.

I watch the crowd this year, I wonder if anyone was out touching the hearts of others in a similar way. I know of one friend whose purpose today was simply to share the good news, as a friend.... He does this every day, but today was special for him... I look forward to hearing his stories. "Just seeds," he says. But good seeds. And sometimes, in the hardest of hearts, they take root.

Tonight, I am thankful for those who reached out to me so long ago.

Thanks for the birds...

One of my favourite scenes from the week was watching four lanes of traffic get stopped during rush hour to let some geese cross the road. I too had to stop. As I waited, I watched the drakes keeping watch over the young ones. And I looked at the faces of those in the cars who were waiting for the 50 or so birds waddle on at their own unhurried pace. It amused me to do that.

For the most part, there was joy on those faces. The farther away the cars stretched, the drivers grew more anxious - some strained to see what was going on. Others just waited patiently for the traffic to clear. I prayed for each person as my eyes fell on them, and then for those in the cars more off in the distance. "Bless them Lord.."

It took me a minute to recognize that mine was one of those smiling faces. I was late for work in a very busy week. Pressed. Again. But so taken by the moment that I forgot the next thing, and just enjoyed being. My heart welled up with thanks as I was reminded by Jesus, not to forget Him as I started off into my day.

It's easy to get caught up in things. I do it often. But far better to be caught up in moments of just being present, with Jesus. In a minute, I'm going out to catch the sunset in one of my favourite places. Enjoy the few moments left of the sunshine today. Feel the warmth on my skin. Breathe in an unhurried pace....and give thanks.

Favourite places...

This is me... with Mb'hati... in Kigali, Rwanda.

I wonder if I'd recognize her today. It's been two long years since I've had my feet on that red soil.

She was very ill the day we visited this Women's Association. We had some supplies and we prayed with her. I remember that moment especially. It's emblazoned in me.

Beautiful girl, being raised in a country that has seen more pain, more bloodshed than I can comprehend.

In this particular moment I was glad to be holding a little one, someone too young to remember the pain of those days in 1994, or even currently with the poverty that continues. She as yet didn't know much about the wars, or her history. She was just playing with my glasses and happy to 'talk' with a visitor. Expressing love freely...even through her feeble body. She, her mother, and her friends captured my heart.

The moms here also captured my heart. There is something that changes in the eyes of a person who experiences deep pain or loss. I saw that in the eyes of so many... those who survived, those who came back after....those who are still in far away countries as the relay their stories about loved ones who died too soon.

But, especially in this place, there are some precious saints that know deep sadness but who also carry with them the fragrance of the Holy Spirit. I feel so blessed each time I meet someone like that. Even when common language seems so hard to find, their eyes tell the story of the loving and Holy God who indwells them. Just as with deep sorrow, there is equally something unique in the eyes of those who have an intimate relationship with Jesus.

I don't always see that in the eyes of those I meet. But I look for it. When I noticed it, I rejoice. When I don't, I pray that Jesus will change my own eyes, so that I may recognize Him even better... (Mat. 25:40).

Mists on the River

There are a few spots near my home were I feel most at peace. When I'm longing to hear from the Lord, I often go for a drive to one of these places. Before long, I find myself sitting by a river. Sometimes I skim stones. Sometimes I just get quiet and listen to the birds and insects, and the sound of the river. And when I'm settled, I pull out a bible and pray. This picture was taken near one of those spots, on a very grey day.

Spring storms have stirred up a lot this year. But I still enjoy watching the rains, the lightning, and the mists on the river. In those precious wild gardens, I often feel like I've wandered into a secret place. And within minutes, the crush of the busy work day melts away. Soon, without much prodding....I find myself speaking words of praise to Jesus. I begin to thank him for giving me eyes to see this splendor.

Even with grey days, where the vibrant colours of summer are swallowed up in the mist, I am amazed at what we can take in when we stop for just a moment and ask, "Lord, what is here that you want me to see? Who was here or will be here? What do you want to say? Is there something you want to teach me? " Amazingly, Jesus responds. (He says he will, but it still amazes me).

Sometimes it's just a simple response. And yes, sometimes there is silence. But even then, I have learned just to enjoy the walk and see creation. These days, when I stop to examine even simple blades of grass, with their weak seeds and shallow roots, I am humbled that they know how to worship without effort. Simply being what they were created to be...blooming where they are planted.

I am not someone who worships creation. I worship the Creator, the Holy God of Israel. Not because His works are beautiful, but because of the incredible love that brought all of this into being. And that He gave me personally, eyes to see all of this... and to see Him in all of this as well.

Psalm 97

I pray that you, precious reader, will find places to get still. Where you can look around you, even on grey, or crushing days, and find peace. May Jesus speak to your heart, whisper through creation, and bring you joy.

Learning to pray

I remember being in this church, singing the Kyrie... with low, reverant voices. There is something about being in a place where many are gathered humbly, to worship. It was a special day. We didn't stay that long. But I loved each moment. Drawn into a still and quiet place within me. Learning again to hear the voices of the few, lifted quietly but with awe.

I also remember praying with a dear friend, just sitting with her. Listening to her prayers. Honest and raw...so beautiful. My heart grew so much that day.

Benedictus qui venit, in nomine Domini....

Roses on the path

A friend sent me this picture today. It was a beautiful image to see first thing this morning.

We've been talking about what it means to really trust Jesus. Sunday school answers don't always help, though sometimes I find myself returning to the simplest of words I learned way back when, like: "Jesus Loves Me."

I don't think I'll ever really fully understand those three words. Even if it takes me a lifetime to learn what others learn seem to learn so quickly, I'm glad to explore the hidden layers of what they mean for me, and for others I meet along the path.

The question for me, as my friend shared this picture, was how do I receive his love? It is freely given. Do I freely receive it? Or because of my own frailties do I miss it? Turn most of it away.

This morning, my friend simply shared from her heart the story of when she picked up this cross and found the rose. I cried. I'm sentimental at the best of times. But her words made me long once again to pick up my cross and find my rose.

I am praying for that again tonight.
(Psalm 84).

At home...

This photo is from my back yard. The tulips are long gone now and lavendar and other flowers are taking over the space they held this spring. But for the short season they were there, they brought me hope.

I had forgotten planting them last fall. In a spontaneous moment, I went to a garden center last fall to catch up with a childhood memory. That garden center is where my mom used to go to get any number of finds for her lovely gardens. I used to dread going there, but it was one of the few things that I remember mom really enjoying. So, on a grey day last fall, when I was needing to remember a happy family time, I bought some tulip bulbs. Dozens of them. It took me a week to plant them.

It was what I needed then just to get outside at the end of the day to plant a few here and a few there. I laughed with my mom on the phone as she gave me tips on getting the perfect depth and where to plant them. It was good to connect with my mom in that way. And it was better to be outside, with my hands in the dirt, praying....

I'd forgotten all about those moments by the time spring came around. It was a very demanding spring this year, for a lot of reasons. Much more than usual. So when I went outside and saw the rows of bright colours along my fence, and in this garden too, it brought a lot of joy to me.

What a simple thing. Stick a few bulbs in the ground. Forget. Wait what seems like forever for some warmth... and then, without any effort, there are beautiful spring flowers.

I remember coming home after a busy work day, and stopping with wonder. And felt the hope symbolized by spring: Easter Joy. Tulips, freesia, lily of the valley. All in bloom.

Jesus spoke to my heart that day. He reminded me that he sees all of the moments, remembers all of the moments we forget. Prayers, offered long ago, may seem buried. But they are not lost. In the right season, at just the right time, he shows us brilliantly that he heard us....

Exd. 13:4-10

Getting Started

Greetings.

Where to start....always the most difficult step is just to begin.

Thoughts over the past few weeks and conversations have led me through many deep places. My heart is one that is just learning to flow with words. So, this seemed like as good a space as any to capture some of those ideas and share them with those who are open to prayer.

But not all prayer is the same.

If you know me, you will know quickly that I love Jesus. He is my saviour, my Lord, and friend.

What you will find on these pages, expresses my heart in that context...for it is only through Christ that my heart holds any promise at all. Only Jesus. Always Jesus. Everyday Jesus.

I have travelled a bit and I love being in many different nations. Spiritual matters and expressions wherever I go, I find very interesting. But I hope always to be clear about whom it is that I serve, no matter where I may travel or what I may learn in the process.

So with that... let the blog begin. Amen?