World’s breakneck pace, Stop that race. Put on the brakes. Hungry, greedy sharks, Stop the noise. Stop the thunder. Stop breeding misplaced hunger. We are broken, and run down. Lord, turn us around.
Step off that ladder. Come down from that pedestal. Look up from your work. Sister, help your brother, One and all, help each other. Stand up now, and be fed. Be true, and be led. Lord, bring us around.
Wisdom, seeking Wisdom? The time is right, as always. Be moved to higher ground. Turn it over, and then again. For although we are many, We are not. We are one. So, why not come together? Even better, be united. Lay down sides, Take up faith, not fate, And cry out loud, Lord, turn it around.
But as it is, there are many parts, yet one body. – 1 Cor 12:20
While the outside world has so much to offer, sometimes it can feel like too much, making the idea of hiding away in the seclusion of a hermitage or something similar of greater appeal than it might be otherwise. Today, January 15th, is the feast of St. Paul the Hermit who was born and lived in Egypt until he died around the age of 112. Referred to as the “First Hermit,” little information is known of him.
However, what seems of most importance is known. That is, how St. Paul the Hermit became a hermit and how humankind came to know about him. Originally, at the age of 15 and an orphan, he went into a cave seeking refuge during the persecution of Christians, in the year 250 A.D., by Roman Emperor Decius. His intention was to come out of hiding and return home once the persecutions ended.
But, over the course of his time away from humankind, St. Paul found peace as well as a calling to remain in the desert living a solitary life of prayer as a hermit. So how did this information about St. Paul the Hermit come to be known? St. Anthony of Egypt is said to have come across St. Paul along his own journey toward Truth and self-discovery.
It’s interesting how St. Paul the Hermit was called to a life of seclusion, yet still, God called another, St. Anthony, to give witness to his life and death as holy. It’s also intriguing that St. Anthony was led to St. Paul the Hermit in the process of entertaining thoughts of himself as the most enduring hermit in existence… until he met St. Paul.
In the First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, chapter 12, verses 4-11, St. Paul the Apostle writes about different kinds of spiritual gifts, different forms of service, and different workings that are dispersed to all, individually, but by the same God who creates them, and the same Spirit who brings them to fruition. With God, no one gift, or creation, is above the other, differentiation is by design, all are loved into existence, all are created for unity, and all are equally important.
So, while St. Paul the Hermit and St. Anthony of Egypt had similar callings and different paths, like us, humility is what leads them to a better place.
In everything, it is only through the grace of God that we can lay down human notions; truly understand, appreciate, take care of, and celebrate one another; and thus, partake in the unity—the heart of God– that is Creation.
For many Christians the crescendo of what it means to be Christian is celebrated with great veracity around Christmas, and then again around Easter. Preparing to celebrate Christmas, we read and listen to Gospel passages, finding inspiration, hope, solace, and more, as we envision the journey of Mary and Joseph, and the birth of Jesus. Yet, with every liturgy or service throughout the year, we celebrate and are reminded of God’s love for us, the example of Jesus, and the call to discipleship. And all year long, we profess our belief that throughout the ages, from the beginning of time, there is one Word, one God, one Way, and one People.
At Christmastime, may the heightened awareness of Love (God) in our hearts bring us together to a place where we become blind to all that separates and pulls us apart. Instead, may we see one Light, one Truth, one Story as we celebrate the birth of our Lord. And, as God’s generosity comes alive for us, may we welcome it to the inn, allowing it to abound within and all around, melting the ties that otherwise bind us to “other,” away from God and one another.
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:1-14
I remember as a young student feeling fascinated as I learned all about the human heart, its functions and their importance. I was most amazed by the strength of the heart and its capacity, pumping 2,000 gallons of blood each day throughout the body. It wouldn’t be until years later that my amazement would become even greater in coming to understand the heart’s greatest asset—the rhythm, steady and strong, seeking to draw one closer, revealing God, and yearning not only to keep the connection of love, peace, and healing going, but also to help it to thrive without bounds. As the 13th century Persian poet, Rumi, wrote, “Love is the bridge between you and everything.”
In chapter 7 of the Gospel according to Mark, Jesus says to the Pharisees,
“Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written:
This people honors me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me;
in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines human precepts.
You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.” (Mk 7:6-8)
Jesus is calling on them to be honest… to look more closely and to see that their hearts are not leading them in union with God. Their love has become misplaced. It is self-serving and focused on what is earthly rather than what is truly, right and just. Their words and actions do not come together to reflect the beauty of God’s goodness—the law that is placed in every heart—dignity, care, and love of all who are placed alongside us whether in location, heart, or mind.
This same love is what the author of the Letter of James is calling people to when he writes,
“Know this, my dear brothers: everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath,
for the wrath of a man does not accomplish the righteousness of God.
Therefore, put away all filth and evil excess and humbly welcome the word that has been planted in you and is able to save your souls.
Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves.” – Jas 1:19-22
No matter where one might be, or the circumstances that exist, Love is the only true hope there is. And while there may be many things that seem beyond reach, or out of control, Love is the anchor that holds us altogether, moves us into action, and brings peace, or peace of mind, strength, truth and justice, never growing cold.
Looking into the world of nature, it can be very easy to come across what makes for a beautiful picture. Whether one’s eye is caught by a single object or multiple ones combining to create a scene that captivates and captures attention, it all starts with posture.
The picture below was taken at the base of a road on the way back down, after having traveled it to the top of a mountain. The way that everything came together and seemed to fall into place in the moments we happened upon it, was rather striking. As we were returning from the summit on a sunny, gorgeous day, the sun was quickly overtaken by fast moving clouds, and as we drove, we moved in and out of brief periods of rain. However, once we reached the base, things looked much brighter. Then, not much further along, we entered the scene. It was like stepping into a painted landscape.
Again, everything—road, rock wall, water, building, sand, trees, and sky—seemed to come together, bringing out the best of what that day and time could offer, and it was perfect. Unity and peace within rising above and beyond turbulence. Not only a pretty sight or precious thought, but also at the heart of faith and faithfulness—the way in which one works, lives, and cooperates with the grace of God, who resides within us, and in whose image, we are all created.
What one carries or holds onto as they journey, quite literally, impacts everything—reception, perception, reaction, response, etc.
Brothers and sisters: I, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. – Eph 4:1-6
In a few weeks, my oldest child will be turning the page toward a new chapter in his life, as he graduates. So many years have passed and so much has transpired since his birth, yet it’s still hard to believe that this milestone is already here. As I think about the journey as a parent, I recall moments of feeling joy and pride as well as moments of feeling fear and uncertainty. What an awesome responsibility… what an awesome privilege. But then, isn’t that what love is all about? Being present, holding on, lifting up, letting go, and along the way, being drawn toward the balance that lies between?
In the Gospel according to John, Jesus says:
“As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.” (15:9)
How do we do that?
We remain in love, by choosing to live in Love. When we choose to be present to each other and creation, we are also choosing to be present to God, and God’s love for us. This is the source of joy, and it can only be complete when it is shared and flowing freely among us. So often though, things get in the way, distracting us, and pulling us apart from each other, as well as from God.
When we remain in God’s love though, we can see things for what they are more readily, and withhold the judgment that seeks to lead us against one another rather than bring us together. What an awesome responsibility… what an awesome privilege. But then, isn’t that what love is all about? Being present, holding on, lifting up, letting go, and along the way, being drawn toward the balance that lies between?
Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder. Help someone’s soul heal. Walk out of your house like a shepherd.” — Rumi
Upon entering the room, the display of rainbow-like bursts on one of the walls, captured my attention. Looking back now though, I see more clearly. Connections all around. The shadow once shed, takes on a new face. Taking up and letting go. To shed and re-shed from beginning to end. Tied together throughout by the image of God, and all eternally beloved. It’s in the air. Life and breath, width and depth. With God, it’s Universal.
The veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. – Mark 15:38
Believe it or not, it seems easier to believe that which is tangible. Thus, the saying, “I’ll believe it when I see it!” Yet, in reality, what one believes actually comes from within. Belief is born out of that which echoes the perceived experience of one’s heart and mind.
As perception changes, the things that resonate and to which one is receptive change too. As a result, internally, one is moved to also change, hopefully for the better. Thus the words of Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
This is really what human nature is all about—we are created to continually evolve—called to conversion each and every day. It is important to remember that when it comes to love, and what is truly good, honorable, and just, there is always room for growth! How much? That’s up to the individual—again it comes back to perception.
During Lent and throughout the year, the practicing, and living out, of what one believes, can, and often does, take so many forms. After all, faith is living… breathing… active. It is not intended to be stale, or fixed in place or time, but to be celebrated with body, heart, and mind. Not to be carried along, but to carry us through and to broaden the depth with which we see God, ourselves, and other, as one.
Seek, and you will find what brings you closer. It’s not about “should” or “if,” but rather what is. The journey is yours and God’s together. Trust, and you will discover.
Jesus came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of land that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there. Jesus, tired from his journey, sat down there at the well. It was about noon.
A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” His disciples had gone into the town to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to him, “How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?” —For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans.— Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink, ‘ you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep; where then can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself with his children and his flocks?” Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water.”
Jesus said to her, “Go call your husband and come back.” The woman answered and said to him, “I do not have a husband.” Jesus answered her, “You are right in saying, ‘I do not have a husband.’ For you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true.” The woman said to him, “Sir, I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain; but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem.” Jesus said to her, “Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You people worship what you do not understand; we worship what we understand, because salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth; and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and truth.” The woman said to him, “I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ; when he comes, he will tell us everything.” Jesus said to her, “I am he, the one speaking with you.”
At that moment his disciples returned, and were amazed that he was talking with a woman, but still no one said, “What are you looking for?” or “Why are you talking with her?” The woman left her water jar and went into the town and said to the people, “Come see a man who told me everything I have done. Could he possibly be the Christ?” They went out of the town and came to him. Meanwhile, the disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” So the disciples said to one another, “Could someone have brought him something to eat?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, ‘In four months the harvest will be here’? I tell you, look up and see the fields ripe for the harvest. The reaper is already receiving payment and gathering crops for eternal life, so that the sower and reaper can rejoice together. For here the saying is verified that ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap what you have not worked for; others have done the work, and you are sharing the fruits of their work.”
Many of the Samaritans of that town began to believe in him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me everything I have done.” When the Samaritans came to him, they invited him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. Many more began to believe in him because of his word, and they said to the woman, “We no longer believe because of your word; for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the savior of the world.” – John 4:5-42
Flowers and an icicle do not seem to fit together, and yet, they do, or they did yesterday. From a distance, each called attention in its own manner, a splash and depth of color and a long, glass-like spear.
Up close, and from numerous angles, with the light, and contrasted against the background, the delicate nature of each made prominent. There were so many petals, all the same composition, with similar shapes, and tips with greater variation, but coming together as one in each flower.
Then, the icicle, seemingly one big, smooth flow of water, many molecules, frozen… stuck in time. Yet, stepping nearer, not so plain and clear, layers, twists, and turns coming together to create it.
The beauty of nature in all its various forms comes into presence, like life… like love… like God, in both the expected and unexpected ways.
Embracing the moment, quietly, silently, gratefully, and allowing it to saturate one’s being, is the beginning of knowing, exercising, and extending Love. It is true that Love is timeless, and for the times, but in order to carry on toward fruition, Love must be experienced and embodied. For one can only put forth that which resides within. This is why time, and the way in which it is used, or not, is of the essence.
In the midst of whatever season one might find oneself, the benefit of using, spending, making, or taking time to rest in the love of God, wherever and however it suits one best, is never wasted.
Love takes off the masks we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within. — James Baldwin
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