• From our first sprouting to our final gathering there is much change • As maturity comes, so develops strength and shape • The smoothing and rubbing of life’s challenges brings out our character • We all have the potential for many forms and purposes • Like mighty trees, so protect and provide cover for the fragile and needy • Those who nurture others are recognized for compassion • Building and creating brings satisfaction for work well done • Inward beauty shines forth with love and care • Spreading warmth brings comfort and contentment • Storms often bring loss and uproot or unsettle us • Hope sprouts slowly sometimes, so tend with care • Planting, watering, tending, shaping, serving… is purpose • Draw from the land and bear good fruit with seeds • God nourishes and makes things grow
In the stillness There comes a calm A time of quiet contemplation
Storms’ great waves That crashed with tumult Chaos, strife, and much distress
Come gather now As silence deepens Open to stop, to pause
Find now rest with indrawn breath Comfort and new direction Readying both body and mind
Heart now waiting Ears unstopped Eyes opened to receive
God with us, Emmanual In deep compassion Holds us gently
Heard is our voice Breath touches pain, anger, fear In His stillness… find new peace
Hope for each day Joy in the moment Faith for life… in His stillness
Charlotte-Anne Allen
Psalm 107:28-30 NIV – “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.“