We were gifted a wooden cross from a man at the church who made it from a tree that was struck by lightning on the church property. It’s my favorite possession in our home.

Anyway we just moved and unearthed it yesterday. I hung it immediately and a few minutes later this happened….

We have a wall of windows so I adjusted the blinds to see if it changed it but it didn’t… it slowly faded away. Hoping it happens daily but we shall see…♥️

I do not know when we can gather together again in worship, Lord.

So, for now I just ask that:

When I sing along in my kitchen to each song on Stevie Wonder’s Songs in The Key of Life Album, that it be counted as praise. (Happy 70th Birthday, SW!)

And that when I read the news and my heart tightens in my chest, may it be counted as a Kyrie.

And that when my eyes brighten in a smile behind my mask as I thank the cashier may it be counted as passing the peace.

And that when I water my plants and wash my dishes and take a shower may it be counted as remembering my baptism.

And that when the tears come and my shoulders shake and my breathing falters, may it be counted as prayer.

And that when I stumble upon a Tabitha Brown video and hear her grace and love of you may it be counted as a hearing a homily.

And that as I sit at that table in my apartment, and eat one more homemade meal, slowly, joyfully, with nothing else demanding my time or attention, may it be counted as communion.

Amen.

“I get a glimpse of God every time I see someone wearing a mask at the store. They are doing it to protect ME, not just to protect themselves. It’s a visual reminder that we care for our community.” 

Reframing

I’m trying to reframe things. Instead of being disappointed about this or that with all the various restrictions, I’m telling myself: “Look, now I have time to do some of the things I’ve been meaning to do for a while.” This really helps!

Jerome recounts how a congregation member called him to ask how he was doing and also asked about one of his friends who helped nurse his wife throughout her illness. When asked if the friend had enough food for Easter, Jerome said they didn’t have much food period, much less anything special for Easter. The congregant soon came with a spiral ham, veggies, biscuits, and a sweet potatoe pie, which Jerome took to his friend for Easter. The friend not only had a wonderful Easter meal, but shared it with another family facing difficult times. After the original Easter, the disciples were so struck by God’s grace and power that they began sharing even more amongst one another. Similar glimpses of God are being seen (and needed) today. Thanks be to God for your sharing which enables us all to share!

It gave me a peaceful moment – May the peace be with you all”

“In this stressful time, I have found peace. We must think positive thoughts. Where can we find them? Read Philippians 4:8  ‘Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.’ Focus on Paul’s thoughts. Make a list of all the things for which we are thankful. In order to be happy, we must first be thankful. Also, I close my eyes, take a long deep breath and feel God’s loving arms around me.”