Fiery Seeds
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Yes, It’s RealYes, It’s Real
I saw an oystercatcher today, a large bird that inhabits tidal flats. A friend bought me a dish in a local gift shop with an oystercatcher painted on it, and insisted that we had to see one for the dish to be ‘authentic’ as a souvenir. I had to laugh with her; so often I too have my tests for authenticity; I must see before I can believe something is legitimate. I’m reminded of Doubting Thomas who couldn’t accept the disciples’ word that Jesus had appeared before them. Thomas insisted on actually witnessing the risen Lord, touching the wounds and verifying them for himself. Jesus didn’t even berate Thomas’ doubts; he understood that faith grows by testing and wondering, even by doubting. I thank you, Lord, for today’s oystercatcher sighting, and for your patient understanding of my own tests of faith. While I may doubt you, I know your love for me never wavers. I thank and praise you. Amen.
Fourth of July!Fourth of July!
Fourth of July! If ever there is a summer celebration, it is this day when patriotism, vacations, and perfect outdoor weather coincide. I’ll do my walk early this morning to avoid crowded roads and beaches. The air will be ripe with the scent of hamburgers and hot dogs grilling, steaks over hot coals, damp potato chips and coleslaw. I’ll hear children squealing in the surf, throwing bits of bun to seagulls, shouting as they run up and down the beach. Tonight there will be fireworks that split the darkness and shower sparks of living color. So much to celebrate, so many reasons to be grateful. We are a free country, a freedom dearly bought and purchased with the death and sacrifices of those who defended her. In the same way, I am free from sin and the permanence of death, a freedom purchased by the blood and death of Jesus Christ. What reason to celebrate! Lord, I come to your Sacramental Table to remember your sacrifice and to honor the anniversary of this occasion. Please help me never forget my reason to celebrate freedom and the price you paid.
It’s pine pollen time on the island! Though I rarely see the yellow particles in the air, I can readily identify their presence on everything left outside—tables, beach shoes, chair, and our car. All surfaces are coated with a fine yellow film that makes some cough and sneeze. Once I saw the wind dislodge clouds of pine pollen, setting drifting across the bay though usually it’s invisible. Despair and depression can be like that. Individual causes may seem minor, but soon they accumulate and coat everything that should be shiny and bright. Suddenly the world is dulled in despair and hopelessness. Please help me, O Lord, to shake myself free of this choking coating so that my enjoyment of the life you’ve given me is not clouded by the accumulation of problems and worries I’ve let pile up. Help me to breathe in the breath of your life and your love so, like the pine pollen set adrift over the water, I am free to be joyful in your presence. Amen.