Inspiration

At the Water’s Edge…

From time to time, there is a place my family likes to go where we sit, talk, and take in the scenery. Sometimes, we go together and other times one or two of us may go alone.  Whichever the case, and as familiar as the place has become, the experience is seldom the same. Instead, it is common that something new or different happens among the interactions, whether in the surroundings or in the conversation.

The other day, the flow of the water was moving in a different direction than usual. Normally, the water flows toward the land on the other side. On this day, it was flowing toward the side where I was, calling attention to the edge of the water in front of me.

At the edge of the water, lay remnants of leaves fallen from days of old. At the edge of the grass, lay remnants of leaves fallen from days of old. The image was intriguing.

While days of old, are a thing of the past, it is often from days of old, that the water flows and the grass grows. It is often from something known, that something new, different, or previously unknown comes into being. It is rarely, if at all, one or the other (old or new) exclusively, for that which stands the test of time.

Jesus walked on both land and sea. He bridged the old to the new, remaining faithful, or perhaps in modern day terms, remaining loyal to God. True to God to the very end… and from that end, a new beginning arose.

We are called to do the same, and through the grace of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now,
and ever shall be,
world without end.
Amen.

AtTheWatersEdge

Breaking Away…

Looking out the window, in the midst of being stuck on something for work, I wondered why the flow of cars had come to a stop. It was not even close to commuter traffic time. I stood up and went closer to the window to try to see what was happening outside. As I surveyed the street to the right and then back to the left, all at once the reasons for the holdup came into view.

The two beautiful horses that are normally fenced in across the street were leisurely jogging on the sidewalk, past the stopped cars on the road. I watched in awe as they calmly made their way down the street. Just as they passed my house, they started to turn left toward their home field, but then briefly paused and turned right, crossing the street at a wide opening between some cars, and taking a break in a next door neighbor’s front yard.

They seemed to be enjoying the air outside their usual stomping grounds. They stood there for a few moments, completely unaware of the angst of those trying to carefully restore them to those very grounds. They looked so very majestic and peaceful too.

While the horses breaking free and strolling around the neighborhood caused a bit of a stir, stopping traffic and leading officers to the scene, they were eventually led back to their enclosure. Everyone, horses, owners, officers, witnesses of the “jail” break, and passersby alike, continued on their way safe and sound. I went back to work, no longer stuck.

It is interesting how taking a little time to check things out, especially the unexpected, can bring with it an opportunity for great joy, an encounter or experience that can brighten an ordinary day, and perhaps even lead to insight and discovery of one kind or another. All of us, like the horses running down my street, need to step away or move into a different space at times, and take a breath of fresh air.

Horses1

Filled with Expectation…

The other day as I was driving in the car with my daughter, I blew a bubble and then proceeded to pop it causing the chewing gum to make a snapping noise. My daughter looked at me and smiled, then commented on how she found it interesting that some things seem impossible and then after time, if you stick with them, they become possible. Although we were speaking about the challenge of learning how to blow bubbles, how to whistle, and other seemingly trivial feats, all that we spoke about involved the same process that is incurred in bigger matters and across much of life.

Time and again, on different levels and with varying intensity, the journey within the journey begins with a desire or a hope to, or for, something new or something more. Once we not only become aware of that desire, but also begin to pay closer attention to it, excitement and expectation often rise. We feel compelled to rush ahead, launching into exploration and diving fully into it. Or, we might feel hesitant, wanting only to touch the tip of a toe into it, or to run away from it, as we test the water, so to speak. Either way, the key is the same.

It is only through persistence in striving to be in union with God that we come to the place of fruition. It is God who plants all desires that are worthy, and it is through God that we come to know not only that we are chosen, but also for what.

As we continue to move forward into this New Year, may we be filled with expectation whose source is God, joy as a child learning “the impossible” and doing it for the very first time, and peace that comes not from what we choose, but from why we choose.

truepeace

The people were filled with expectation,
and all were asking in their hearts
whether John might be the Christ.
John answered them all, saying,
“I am baptizing you with water,
but one mightier than I is coming.
I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals.
He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

After all the people had been baptized
and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying,
heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him
in bodily form like a dove.
And a voice came from heaven,
“You are my beloved Son;
with you I am well pleased.” – Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

Opening Up…

A couple of days ago, the skies opened up, and the rain poured down as periods of thunder and lightning worked their way through the area. While the cloud masses wrestled, trying to push through to the other side, the torrential rain was unrelenting and seemed as if it could go on without end. It drenched everything in its path, washing away loose sediment and cleansing what remained.

Waiting in the car for a break or a slow-down in the rate of precipitation, I watched with apprehension as the thunder and lightning continued, the wind picked up, and a steady overflow of water traveled down the windows. After what seemed like an inordinate amount of time, rain still pouring, I made a dash, through the stream of water across the entire driveway, into the house. I too was now drenched. However, somewhere between the car and the house as the skies remained loud as well as fully opened, and the ground beyond soaked, trepidation gave way to a spirit of courage and excitement as I made my way to the threshold and crossed over it. Once inside, I looked back, amazed at both the way the rain continued to fall and how exhilarating it was to go through the rain and water to get to dry “land.”

There is always a way, even in times when it may seem like the roads are all washed out, or there are no paths to take. Listen, and as Jesus said, “Be opened!” (Mark 7:34)

Direction

Something to Chew on…

These days so much in life can be rather easily accomplished “on the go,” or with a simple click, press, or swipe. Convenience and moving from one thing to the next without skipping a beat, at times almost mindlessly, or without taking a breath, is more commonplace than not. One can only wonder, how much is missed or falls through the cracks along this way? Or, perhaps an even better question, how is the time saved by all that serves to make life convenient being spent? Which path am I following? And society?

We have been blessed into creation with the capacity to decipher that which is of true benefit… that which is authentic. Not only that, but we have also been graced with a deep-seated desire to be connected to and guided by Wisdom… Love… Justice as we navigate our environment. Sometimes, with convenience, we somehow become busier—having less time to breathe properly when by all accounts it seems there should be more time. It can be easy to slip away from taking the time not only to discover and recognize what we are really consuming, but also to be filled by God with all that we need to speak up, making clear what is unacceptable, refusing to look or walk the other way… refusing to support or consume garbage.

Jesus tells us to know what we are eating. In order to take and eat of the goodness of God, we must take the time to chew before we swallow. It is in the chewing, that we come to see the Truth, and through the Truth that we find the courage and wherewithal to remain firm, resolved to being faithful to God, standing up in the face of all that would serve to strike down that which is good and honorable in and through each other.

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood
remains in me and I in him, says the Lord. – John 6:56

Many Dimensions Make Music…

The auditorium was full of people of all ages and backgrounds watching, listening and taking in the music that filled the air. As diverse as the crowd, were the students on stage and the music they performed. Between all the different ensembles (jazz, camerata choir, concert chorus, drumline, orchestra, and concert band) that performed it was remarkable to experience the many dimensions of both music and instruments. It was also moving to witness the result, or the fruit, of the time and effort spent working, at times alone and at times together, to learn and perform musical pieces with melody and in harmony… supporting one another toward the same end. So many pieces, so many dimensions, yet all in unity. Truly beautiful, and so very soulful!

Like music, many things, including humanity, are at their best, inspirational and Spirit-filled, when they are multi-dimensional. The more single note or single flavor something or someone is, typically, the more it is also uninspired and on its way to becoming less than, stalled or altogether extinguished. This is not how it is intended to be.

We are all created with a body, mind, and spirit. We are multi-dimensional from the very beginning, before we can even really do anything. Not only that, we are also created in the image of a multi-dimensional God. A God whom we can experience through each of our senses, and in so many ways, through so many avenues (e.g. prayer, music, nature, art, literature, etc.).

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the one who is and who was and who is to come, the almighty.” – Revelation 1:8

With a God who is all encompassing… the beginning, the end, and everything in between… a God who is in the past, the present, and the future, all at once—beyond total human comprehension—our faith is called to be the same—bigger and broader than we can imagine—multi-dimensional. For that is what faith, as well as each of us, is capable of, whether we believe it or not. With and through God, and each other, we are always more… always greater than what we could ever be on our own.

Just like the music student who is called to learn and practice the piece of music both on their own and together with their fellow student musicians, we are called to learn and practice our faith on our own with God as well as together. In this way, we allow our hearts and souls to be moved, and our minds to be stretched, so that each breath that stirs us into action may arise from the depths of our being, guided by a Love so profound and beyond understanding, that all we can do is our part to listen in order to be in harmony, and in awe, of the beautiful music.

In each moment, in every situation, with each day, there is music waiting to be made.

MusicStaff

Better Than Gold…

This week the winter Olympics being held in South Korea began. As a child, I remember the first time I watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympics on television. I found it exciting to see people representing so many countries from around the world in their various styles of clothing, together in one place. I also recall being struck by the way the flame spread around and across the cauldron when the Olympic torch was held to it. The flame burned with greater intensity and was there for all to see.

There is a beautiful spirit that comes with the Olympic Games. While there is competition and sides to choose and for which to route, it is interesting to see the ways in which a shared goal, interest, or experience can bring people together and enliven them, no matter how far apart they may be, whether geographically or otherwise. Oftentimes, it shines through brighter than any medals that might be won or any honor that might be awarded.

The passion and intensity of the Olympic Games give us a view of what is possible when seeking and striving to honor and celebrate the use of God-given talent and calling. Vincent Van Gogh once said, “Your profession is not what brings home your weekly paycheck, your profession is what you’re put on earth to do, with such passion and such intensity that it becomes spiritual in calling.” He also said, “I am still far from being what I want to be, but with God’s help I shall succeed.” Vincent Van Gogh, completed over 900 paintings and while they are highly valued pieces today, during his lifetime (1853-1890), it is believed that he sold only one, a painting done in 1888.

He did succeed, and although perhaps in the eyes of humankind it was not during his earthly life, the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh and the spirit in which they were done, is inspiring. They live on, touching countless hearts and souls around the world. Vincent Van Gogh carried the torch and protected the flame, with passion, by recognizing his gifts, staying dedicated to being who he was created to be, and trusting that, that was all he needed to do. Perhaps this is part of what draws so many to some level of interest in the Olympic Games. They touch upon the flame within each of us, reminding us of how good it is when we embrace the Spirit and use the gifts we have been given.

TheRedVineyard_VincentVanGogh1

Possibilities…

It seems that so much in life begins with believing. In order to accomplish just about anything one has to believe that the task or the dream envisioned is possible. Otherwise, it would not be attempted.

In addition, what one believes often determines how one views and responds to the world and its happenings. Throughout history, many a person has heard the words, “that’s impossible,” only to prove them wrong. Why is it that where one person may see a dead end and nothing further that another sees possibility and options to be explored?

There is often a drive or a spirit that cannot be denied. It leads the way for the one who truly believes. Sometimes it is for good and at other times, not so much.

In The Minpins, Roald Dahl wrote, “And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” While this was written in a children’s book about a fictional community living high up in a tree, it is applicable to life on the ground and in reality. There is a great sense of direction, inner strength and wisdom that can come with believing.

Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, went to Jesus in the dark of night, seeking the truth—light. In their conversation, Jesus said to him,

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” – John 3:16-18

Nicodemus heard these words, but did he believe them? More importantly, do we believe them?

Nicodemus started the whole conversation with Jesus by stating what he knew (John 3:2). It seems that his knowledge prompted him to seek out Jesus—Light in the dark of the night. However, it was more than that. Both his mind and his heart were open.

How do our minds and hearts lead us? How do they shape our actions?

We are called not only to seek, but also to live in the Truth and Light. Do we really believe this, and how do we allow it to inspire and influence us as we go about our way each day?

We are different, but at the same time we are alike… all created in the image of God, and as such, in the same image of Jesus and blessed with the Holy Spirit to guide us. How bright the world can shine, one person at a time, when we embrace that place, and live from it.

Brothers and sisters, rejoice.
Mend your ways, encourage one another,
agree with one another, live in peace,
and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Greet one another with a holy kiss.
All the holy ones greet you.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ
and the love of God
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. – 2 Corinthians 13:11-13

Butterfly2

The Land of the Living…

Every year, usually in May, my local library displays artwork created by students throughout our school district. When attending the opening night of the art showcase, one can expect the library to be noisy and bustling with people rather than its usual quiet, slow-paced atmosphere. During this nighttime, community event, students show their artwork to loved ones, and people of all different ages not only view the work on display, but also tend to strike up conversations.

It is a time of excitement and joy at the library. One can sense it in the air and on the faces of those who attend. It is nice to be there and to see such creativity, and it is often a good time for all. The work, all created in the confines of art rooms throughout the school district, remains on display through the end of the month for all who may enter to see.

This week, during a visit to the library, in the midst of writer’s block, I got up and moved to another spot to take a break for a few minutes. As I was sitting in one of the more comfortable, living room like chairs, I looked up to see rows of magazines in one direction and rows of newspapers in another, and then between the two, display stands covered with art work from the school district show. As I gazed, I was struck by the beauty of the colors, the creativity, and the various forms of artwork around me.

While I have always enjoyed opening night of the art show and the beauty of the work displayed, this particular day, I had the opportunity for a viewing in a quieter setting, and during the daytime. In revisiting some of the work, the beauty was even more noticeable and spoke to me in new ways. Just as the students were sharing a piece of themselves (their minds… hearts… souls) in their art, we share pieces of ourselves wherever we go… wherever we are.

Overall, the experience was a great reminder of how good it can be to revisit or retrace one’s steps every now and again, even in what might seem minor at first glance. It is good to reflect on the ways in which I contribute to the environment around me. This is especially true in the midst of societal events that can lead one to see darkness and death more so than Light and Life in the world as well as in our day-to-day routines.

The truth is that there is, and will always be, more good, and potential for good, than there is bad. Oftentimes, all we have to do is take a step back, look again to see what perhaps we did not notice before or to remind ourselves of the good that we have experienced. When we allow the goodness that God has planted within each of us not only to take hold of us, but also to shine through us… to influence our words and actions, and most especially our prayers, we cooperate with God in building and creating.

We have are far greater impact than we might imagine. It is up to us to acknowledge and appreciate, as well as to nurture goodness, in ourselves and in others.

“I believe I shall see the goodness of the Lord, in the land of the living.” – Psalm 27:13

Creativity

Time well spent…

I had the opportunity this week to visit an exhibit on Leonardo da Vinci. There was a wide array of his work (paintings, drawings, writings and inventions across many subject areas) to see. I found the extent and diversity of his work fascinating. Without doubt, he was a true Renaissance man.

As I took in, and marveled at, da Vinci’s work, alongside and surrounded by many others who were also interested in the items on display, I could not help but feel amazed. Here was a person who lived so long ago, but whose work still has an impact and is undoubtedly the foundation for many works that came after. It seems clear that Leonardo da Vinci was Divinely inspired and that he developed and tried to use his God given talents to the fullest. I cannot imagine this being possible without him taking the time to discover whom he truly was. It also seems likely that with each work, whether it was an invention, writing, painting or drawing, da Vinci probably became more and more genuine, gaining an even greater sense of himself and in relation to his surroundings; making him a Renaissance man in every sense of the word “renaissance.”

Continuing to reflect on the exhibit and the man, Leonardo da Vinci, I think about how he not only had talent, but he also must have had a great deal of patience. As revealed in one of the displays, when da Vinci was painting The Last Supper, there were days when he would just stare at and ponder the painting, trying to discern the next step. Also brought to light was the fact that the painting, which was done on dry plaster (a new technique created by da Vinci) began flaking and cracking even before it was finished. Still though, it ended up being one of the most well-known works of art and throughout time it has not only survived but has also been much celebrated as a masterpiece.

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of da Vinci’s work is the spirit in which it was done. In it, one can see not only his brilliance, but also re-birth and reawakening over the span of his life. Leonardo da Vinci was both productive and contemplative. Again, he used his God given gifts and talents to bring the thoughts, feelings and ideas that sprung to life from within him out into the open, to be shared for benefit beyond him. Whether or not they were deemed a success or a failure at the time really does not matter, what matters is that they are a testament to time well spent.

As the month of December comes to an end and a new year begins, remember, “Time stays long enough for anyone who will use it” (Leonardo da Vinci).

the-last-supperbyleonardodavinciThe Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci