• What music are you producing as you grow and unfurl? • As we rise, we bow our heads • Take a moment to begin each day in prayer and contemplation • A small, amazing feather enables flight • Our perceptions and expectations are steered by our experiences • Like spores, the deeds we produce affect all things around us • We seek a positive and rich environment in which to thrive • A “daily refresh” brings nourishment and health to body and soul • Beauty shines in more forms than physical appearance • Notice the unnoticeable • Tend to the weary and vulnerable • Respond gently to that which is young, weak, or fragile • Welcome the light, encouragement, and prayers of others • Shine God’s soft, healing light on those around you
– From “Reflection from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
“Come here” we call to the bouncing puppy so full of life, reaching out our sheltering arms and welcoming their companionship.
“Come” is used in so many ways but it always points to recognition! After all, there has to be someone the words are directed to. It speaks to us. “You are here. I see you.”
We share the excitement of discovery or offer support and comfort. When we hear, “Wow, come look at this,” we gather around as our curiosity and interest is piqued. The caring, “come here” of family or friend as they reach with open arms, a hug, or an offer of help is welcome, too.
Jesus’s words encourage us to “come.” “Let the little children come to me,” he said to his disciples. At another time, his compassionate words called all “who are weary and burdened” to come to him (Matthew 19:14 and 11:28). He cares about us when we are struggling and brings us the example of coming as a seeking and trusting child. Sometimes the “come here” can be hard to follow and, like a small child exerting that will for independence, we turn away.
Often for me, that voice is a welcome reminder to run to God’s sheltering arms. When my anxiety swells and overwhelms, God’s voice whispers in my ear, “Come to me. I’m here.” It’s in His presence that I begin to learn the nature of love, obedience, security, and protection in daily life. God’s place of acceptance offers shelter and comfort.
Whether we come as a trusting child or a bounding puppy. Whether we come dragging our feet or unable to rise on our own… stressed, tired, or content, may God draw us ever closer to Him. He sees you, recognizes you, and cherishes you. “Ah, come here.”
Warm sunshine and soft country breeze Quiet sunrise with golden rays Soft laughter and companionship Gentle, calming… sooths the soul
What this balmy day can share Lifts the spirits everywhere Healing salve for body and mind Fragrant oil and cooling drop
Home and comfort during trying times Kick off the shoes and breathing deep Curing unguent for renewal and rest There is a balm both caring and sweet
Cracked and dry we seek balsam’s touch Absorbing goodness to now be restored Kindness reaches out like Gilead’s finest … Feel God’s ointment sinking in
“Starlight, star bright, first start I’ve seen tonight. Wish I wish; wish I might, get the wish I wish tonight!”
“Make a wish! Make a wish!” we’d say excitedly as someone blew out their birthday candle.
Have you ever thought about “wishes” and how they are a part of our everyday life?! Whether intentional or not, they slip into all areas, both great and small. We wish for nice weather, for time to rest, and for a loved one to be well. We wish to go to a certain event or for help with something. We wish for things to happen (or not happen),
There are a lot of long-held traditions that reflect our natural yearning for things that seem improbable or out of reach… Wishes express sympathy, expectation, or hope. I know that I have wished for things to be different or better. I have wished, and prayed for, family members to be well and for God to provide for needs. I have wished for times of rest, for warm sunny days, for hope for the future, and for family and others to find faith in God.
I think of all the crowds of people that followed after Jesus and his disciples. They came with a lot of needs and wishes, too. Jesus told the people to do to others what you wish for them to do to you:
“So, in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
Jesus used the same Greek word (thelō) when he was in the Garden of Gethsemane
‘Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”’ (Matthew 26:39)
Isn’t that so amazing, and so very hard?! …Jesus modeled the ultimate wish, to give up his own wishes (his will) for God’s, to express his love for God and for others above himself. What a challenge that is for us!
As we gaze at the stars, celebrate another year in someone’s life, or just wish for better days and positive outcomes… May we consider what we wish for, what our will is, and release them to God’s care. Prayers that we will find encouragement and rest.
The Still Small Voice 