Suddenly the calming green curtain of the trees pulled back to reveal the lake stretched out before us. The light swelled- as did the murmur of insects. Gatekeepers flitted in aerial dance; Red Admirals, more purposefully, sucked nectar. A red dragonfly darted past, wingtip aerobatics to impress the Red Arrows!
A window onto the world, with a natural soundtrack that tuned my ears to a holier music: as if angels stood here to sing praises, offering psalms to the Creator and Sustainer of all.
Perhaps the Lord Himself stood beside me, with a smile of satisfaction. At least one person had stopped and looked in appreciation of the symphonic greens of the trees, the singing of distant birds, the soft blue of eternal skies reflected in still waters. Lord, You made all this! I am astonished again by the gifts of beauty and peace- thank you for Your commanding, creative Word that speaks Life in every moment. Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow…
We have done so much damage to our world. We exploit everything, and value little. In grasping, we crush- as a toddler’s clumsy fingers squeeze the flowers to ruin. We forget mercy too easily, and hurt others carelessly.
There used to be more butterflies.
Birds once sang here voluminously.
Summer days had more sunshine, and fewer storms.
May it not be too late…
We’ve called for a “Climate Sunday,” not to ease our conscience, but to boost our commitment. Heartfelt prayers empowered by Holy Spirit life, taking hold of our calling to be stewards- GOOD stewards- of Creation. May our spirit be fired with passion for wholeness, for healing, for health and mercy- for everything expressed in “shalom-peace.”
Societies built on compassion, kindness, justice. Leaders who follow godly ways, not greed and oppression.
For the “King and the Kingdom” to reign over every Caesar, emperor, president, politician, councillor and senator.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Let none who walk here forget the Creator whose word brings Life and peace.
Psalm 103:1-6 (Message Translation)
A David psalm:
1 O my soul, bless GOD. From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name!
2 O my soul, bless GOD, don’t forget a single blessing!
3 He forgives your sins—every one. He heals your diseases—every one.
4 He redeems you from hell—saves your life! He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.
5 He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal. He renews your youth—you’re always young in his presence.
6 GOD makes everything come out right; he puts victims back on their feet.
The Reflectionary 