Buttercups in Bloom

Centering Great giver of life, we gather today acknowledging your presence with us. You have unfolded before us in the bright, blue sky Reminding us that your reach is far beyond what we can comprehend. You have given a slight breeze, inviting us to settle into your ever-blowing presence, Reminding us of the depth and breadth of those who have gone before us. Those who walk alongside us. The Companion that fills our lungs when we are unable to breathe. You have risen from the ground in the form of bright green grass Reminding us of the gentle whisper of growth, even as death presses down upon our beings.  You are spread among the roots of the trees Reminding us that as the seasons change,  Your strength gives us balance,  stability and a firm foundation,  preventing our souls from being swept away in the unpredictability of life.  Creator, all things seen and unseen we acknowledge your presence with us today. Provide a balm for our weary souls. B...

In  the celebration of Pentecost tomorrow.  Listen The gentle breeze is blowing. The birds are singing in the trees. The night crawlers cry out. Listen Do you hear the cries of those shaking in fear? Do you hear the grumbling within the bellies of those who pass by? Do you hear the slurs of hatred spewing forth? Listen The world is awaiting a whisper of gentleness. Our neighbors are gathered to hear the ringing of peace. The praise of joy lingers in anticipation. Listen The movement of God’s holy companion comes upon us. The offering of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control is filling us. The calling to listen and respond is beckoning us forward. Listen.

Ashes to Ashes The words….the sentiment….the mark across our foreheads Leave us standing in the darkness Pulls us into the grit of  uncertainty Acknowledges the grief that swells within. Your ashes have left us grieving. empty        wandering in silence.                   standing in the shadows. And yet, here in the shadows        of these trees,        we find new life. A life that rises from the soil A soil that nourishes in ways that we cannot see A soil that births something new out of devastation A soil that reveals beauty in the movements of the season. Here in the shadows,  we find a sliver of light reigning through. We find the strength of your character held among the black walnut, elm, ash, and poplar trees  We feel you envelop us through the thick, rich foliage that spreads across the ground. We hear your song of praise as the birds call to one ano...