Inspiration

Drawing Wise…

Drawing, in its various forms, is something that all people tend to do. Although not necessarily the kind of drawing that is by hand, certainly the kind of drawing that informs or leads to conclusions, maybe even actions.

Stepping outside, I am drawn to the beauty of the trees and the composition spread across the sky. After a period of pause, I am moved to capture, or at least try, and then to share the scene.

Throughout each day, there are moments of drawing, being drawn in, and opportunities to take notice. In those moments and following them, what happens?

In the Book of Sirach, it is written:

With all your soul draw close to Wisdom;
and with all your strength keep her ways.
Inquire and search, seek and find;
when you get hold of her, do not let her go.
Thus at last you will find rest in her,
and she will become your joy. – Sirach 6:26-28

In a world so steeped in competition, mastering the art of out-preparing, and getting “there” first, Wisdom can seem so elusive. And sometimes, to wait for it, may seem a strategy for those who are passive, or even worse, it may seem like forfeiture or a giving up. Yet, Wisdom knows all too well, waiting is not for the faint of heart.

Saint Augustine wrote, “Patience is the companion of wisdom.” In current times, patience seems to wear thin, and in moving about, it can seem as if all are strangers in a strange land. There are so many twists and turns, and maneuvering and holding on among competing interests, can easily find its way toward the never lasting.

To this, Wisdom says:

Look around for all that is worthwhile;
“faithful in words and holy in works” (Psalm 145:13).
Be drawn into each experience,
and from it, draw,
but only that which is worthwhile;
“faithful in words and holy in works.”

Wisdom is all around, but, oh, how often, one misses this, while going after “that.”

Wisdom

We never know how high we are
Till we are called to rise;
And then, if we are true to plan,
Our statures touch the skies.

The heroism we recite
Would be a daily thing,
Did not ourselves the cubits warp
For fear to be a king.  – Emily Dickinson, We Never Know How High We Are (1176)

Peace, piece by piece…

As we remain afloat in a sea of COVID-19 and political, social, and financial unrest, we are in the midst of much that aspires to debilitate and obliterate. As it carries on, sometimes it can seem like this state of disarray could go on forever. However, despite it all, progress comes as waves of truth and courage continue to rise. More and more join in, standing up and speaking out, seeking to overcome the past, and to affect long awaited change.

Sometimes, it is a matter of coming to see, that as the big things knock us out or push us back, our peace lies in the little things. The little things, like the way a squirrel gathers acorns, one at a time, teach us wisdom and move us forward. Step after step, it is the little things and all that is in between, that truly push us ahead and lead us to the places where we need to be.

“It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” – John Wooden

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Museum Days…

In ordinary times, it seems many things fly by, or slip away, unnoticed or forgotten. This week, thinking about summer fast approaching and revisiting memories of summer days gone by, a visit to a university art museum came to mind. When going to a museum there is often a feeling of enthusiasm and openness to seeing many different types and styles of art from various cultures and periods throughout history, all in the same place at the same time.

When reminiscing about this museum visit, what rose to the surface was a piece of art titled, Ave Mariam #2, by the artist Agus Suwage. I remember being struck by how different it was than any other rendering I had seen before. I also recall seeing it from a far, not knowing who it was supposed to be or who the artist might have been. What stood out, and drew me in closer, was the heart.  As I moved forward, it was as if my heart, the heart of the subject, and the heart of the artist joined together, becoming one.

The past few months have been very different than many could have ever dreamed. For many, plans, hopes, or dreams erased as lessons gone by, removed from a board.  Yet, in what can feel like a long, strange flow of time, where division, deceit, and animosity are overflowing, among all the grief, it seems much has been, and remains, to be gained. It is as if the Universe is screaming… pleading, “Unity!”

While most schools around here are finished with, or finishing up, the academic year, it seems we are back in school. These are “Museum days.” If only the spirit that permeates the inside of the museum encountered such willing participants outside as well. There is so much to take in. There is still so much to learn, so much diversity to appreciate, and so many hearts to come together, to be uplifted and inspired toward the peace that greater awareness and authenticity create.

Lord, help us, Your body, to be moved by the Holy Spirit to partake in Your goodness in all our encounters and endeavors, for the glory of God. Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.

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When There Are No Words…

Nothing more to be said or written. What is there to do when it seems there are no more words? What happens when the cries and pleas of those in need are ignored? When ears are deaf, and eyes are blind to the underlying angst and pain? When shaking heads do not cease to shake and wonder, “Why?”

Discord, disparity, outrage, and disbelief build to the beaten down, and the rhythm utters, “Too much! Too much!” Yet, in some places, perhaps in pockets unseen or not noticed, the tide is slowly turning. Faith, courage, and wisdom are building from a whisper, and the voice of Truth is coming, “Enough! Enough!”

Oftentimes, whether they are good or bad times, happy or sad, the most powerful thing is to step back and allow oneself to be filled with the Breath of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, in memory and honor of all that was, that is, and that will be. For standing firm in the loving presence of God, makes it possible to stand firm with peace and knowledge in one’s heart and mind, and provides the strength to forge ahead.

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Saviour
                                 – Matt Crocker, Joel Houston & Salomon Ligthelm
from Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)

Pentecost2020

O most blessed Light divine,
Shine within these hearts of yours,
And our inmost being fill!
Where you are not, we have naught,
Nothing good in deed or thought,
Nothing free from taint of ill.
Heal our wounds, our strength renew;
On our dryness pour your dew;
Wash the stains of guilt away:
Bend the stubborn heart and will;
Melt the frozen, warm the chill;
Guide the steps that go astray. – excerpt Veni Sancte Spiritus

Taken…

Taking in the scenery and the life in and around it, it is amazing to see the manner in which some travel back, some to and fro or here and there, and some not at all. It is also enlightening to watch as “homes” are built or tidied up, the hunt is on for a snack, or the landing as it’s time for a nap. So many things going on, some seen and some not. So many different creatures moving at their own pace, making and finding their way. All happening in the same place, and room for all.

Over the course of many weeks, it has seemed, more than ever in my lifetime, like all are relatively in the same boat. One can imagine or say with quiet confidence, throughout time, this is what it is like, whenever the world, as one and all know it, is turned upside down. Spirit of generosity, Lord, how wonderful the abundance of your presence, even in scarce or scariest of times.

Why does it seem that human hearts grow closer when it seems that there is no other choice? As options grow, will the leanings toward each other fade? Oh Solidarity, when, ever, will students learn the lesson?

Feeling concerned… preoccupied, I seek space… a place, unoccupied. Then, as the gentle breeze blows, it pushes lines across the water. The water where so many things are going on, some seen and some not. So many different creatures moving at their own pace, making and finding their way. All happening in the same place, and room for all. Then, as the gentle breeze blows, it lessens the lines in my reflection. Spirit of generosity, Lord, how wonderful the abundance of your presence, at all times.

I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living. – Psalm 27:13

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Caught up…

The plane crossed over the pond, leaving behind trails of condensation high in the sky. Following its path, as it veered westward, something else, also left behind, came into view. A fishing bob, also above, hanging from one of many branches. It was as if gently placed, decoration to be discovered, rather than the result of errant casting from a pole.

While it’s likely that the person who put the bob in its current place was not pleased at it being hung up in a tree, from the other side, it was delightful to come across, and, in a way, uplifting as well. A sky of blue and “rainbow” of white, bringing light behind the budding branches, as if cheering them on, full support. Then, out of place, but not tangled up, or in distress, this orb of white and orange, hanging on, but not hung up.

Oftentimes, God turns to gold, bringing back into the fold, that which is unintended, out of line, or left behind.

Let all the earth cry out to God with joy. – Psalm 66:1

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To Boldly Go…

It is interesting to see the way that seemingly unrelated things can create connections or deepen them, adding dimensions and building on the universe of faith. In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, after reading and imagining the Scripture passage often referred to as, or titled, the Good Shepherd, the line, “To boldly go where no man has gone,” from the opening of a show I used to watch in earnest in my younger days, springs forth.

As we continue to learn how to navigate in a world facing so many new challenges alongside the old and unresolved issues, to manage unexpected changes, and endure the multitude of uncertainty, it is difficult to plan for anything yet alone to figure out which voice or voices deserve more than consideration. How is this really any different though, than what Faith, Justice, and Love call us to each and every day, since the beginning of time?  Whether we like it or not, whether we think we are ready for it or not, we are constantly being drawn… ever being asked to venture out, and always being invited to join Jesus and, in faith, “To boldly go where no man, woman, or child has gone before.”

In the Gospel according to John, chapter 10, verses 2-5, Jesus says,

“…But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.”

In this passage, and in the example of Jesus’ life, we see new ways of looking at familiar people, places, and situations. The Pharisees are not the gatekeeper or the gate, and the sheep are not confined or limited to a passive existence. Also, the only ways are ones that go through, not around, over, under, or in between.

“When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they recognize his voice.” Again, Jesus, does not describe a situation where the sheep are called, counted, and then left in place. The sheep are called and then “led” and “driven” by the Voice they follow. It is the One that leads to life in exponential ways. The One that leads to life that is eternal.

It is bold because, as seen through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, although it is inborn, part of the image in which all is created, it often requires going against the grain.

It is bold because it leads to stretching and creating new patterns and new dimensions while remaining faithful.

It is bold because it is born out of times that carry great challenges, unrest, and uncertainty.

It is bold because it often works against all odds, bringing true benefit to all.

It is bold because it originates, lives, and breathes, as led by the universal voice of God, who is also bold, calling us to be who we are in all circumstances… to be many parts, different but the same, in One body, united in One heart.

In these times of being asked to stay in place, may we approach each day, Lord, with the boldness of heart that reminds us, and all those around us, that we are your people, and You, are our God.   

ToBoldlyGo

Zooming in…

There is an abundance of Light in and around the world. It is here in the stillness, near and far. It is here in the paces, back and forth, and every action in between. It is present in every place and across all time, bestowing Grace.

Even in times of great stress, loss, and separation, in the midst of darkness and deprivation, there is, always, Illumination.

Look around for what is Bright… Place Hope in the Giver of Life… Be inspired by the Light.

Lord, you will show us the path to life. – Psalm 16:11a

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Easter Rising…

As rays of light penetrate the darkness, so to the love of each. And, through the shine and glow of the heart and soul, we know, our God is with us.

Having been at the foot of the cross, witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus, it seems likely that Mary Magdalene would have been overcome with emotion, confusion, and a sense of loss, to say the least. The circumstances in which she found herself had to be unexpected and vastly different than anything she could have imagined.

Yet, Mary of Magdala, held on. She did not become motionless or stuck in despair. Despite however she may have felt after the death of Jesus, and the magnitude of those feelings, she got up and went to the tomb in the days that followed.

Sometimes, like Mary of Magdala, we have to lift ourselves up, and do something. We have to listen to the Voice within, and “go out.”

Sometimes, we have to put ourselves out there, bearing our souls to each other, listening and sharing, trying something new or in a different way… connecting in ways that show we care, at whatever distance we may be.

Oftentimes, we must overcome doubt and fear, in order to experience the joy of being risen.

Oftentimes, when we lift ourselves, we lift others too.

On this Easter, and always, may the love of God, the sacrifice of Jesus, and the example of many, inspire all toward life everlasting.

Easter2020

On the first day of the week,
Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning,
while it was still dark,
and saw the stone removed from the tomb.
So she ran and went to Simon Peter
and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them,
“They have taken the Lord from the tomb,
and we don’t know where they put him.”
So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb.
They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter
and arrived at the tomb first;
he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in.
When Simon Peter arrived after him,
he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there,
and the cloth that had covered his head,
not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place.
Then the other disciple also went in,
the one who had arrived at the tomb first,
and he saw and believed.
For they did not yet understand the Scripture
that he had to rise from the dead. – John 20:1-9

Here…

Sitting in traffic, stuck in place, with many miles to go. Looking ahead, nothing but motionless vehicles, varying in size and height. Looking back, more of the same, but to the right, reassurance.

Here319

Sometimes, when life, or the happenings around us, are less than picturesque, it can be alluring to dream of being anywhere, but “here,” and in any time, but “now.” Similarly, the opposite, nowhere but “here” and no time but “now,” can hold true, when all seems as good as it can possibly be.

After Jesus is transfigured, Peter says, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah” (Matthew 17:4). It seems so clear to Peter that the moment is here and the time is now. However, further down the line, when things take a turn and become more and more difficult and challenging… when Jesus is arrested, put on trial, condemned, crucified, and dies, does anyone see the moment and time as being here and now, as well?

Yes. Jesus does, and so can we.

Oftentimes the most significant, meaningful moments, the ones that speak volumes, revealing who we really are, and the depth of our being, are the ones right in front of us. Whether the times are considered to be good or bad matters not. Here and now is the right place and the right time to be motivated by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  Here and now is always the right place and time to follow Jesus’ example, and to be led by God.

Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother,
and led them up a high mountain by themselves.
And he was transfigured before them;
his face shone like the sun
and his clothes became white as light.
And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them,
conversing with him.
Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,
“Lord, it is good that we are here.
If you wish, I will make three tents here,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
While he was still speaking, behold,
a bright cloud cast a shadow over them,
then from the cloud came a voice that said,
“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased;
listen to him.”
When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate
and were very much afraid.
But Jesus came and touched them, saying,
“Rise, and do not be afraid.”
And when the disciples raised their eyes,
they saw no one else but Jesus alone.
As they were coming down from the mountain,
Jesus charged them,
“Do not tell the vision to anyone
until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” – Matthew 17:1-9