• 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
“Careful. Just a few more sticks and paper right there.” “How’s that?” “Yay! …It’s going now!”
Anyone who’s built a fire may know the importance of laying a good starter. Bits of dry tinder and small pieces of kindling, which easily catch flame, are essential. As the wood is ignited and the bed of coals grows, larger logs can be gradually added. From a small beginning, a useful fire is drawn.
Little by little, using good kindling that is ready and at hand and with careful tending, the fire grows. That image makes me think of how we approach life, and especially our faith. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, said that faith is given to us by the Spirit (God). That sure helps me when I sometimes struggle with faith during challenging times!
That also makes me more aware of the need to be and to prepare “good kindling”. Staying in prayer, reading the Bible, sharing with a community of faith, friends and family, and serving and caring about others all contribute to building faith. Keeping ourselves, that “kindling”, ready to receive God’s guiding presence is a daily need, isn’t it?!
I’m thankful for the fire of God’s word, even as Jeremiah spoke of God’s word “in (his) heart… like a fire shut up in (his) bones”. My prayer for us all is that God will help us to know and to hear his words, to be mindful of Him in all things through every day, and to welcome that fire. May we be good kindling ready to receive Him.
*1 Corin. 12:9, 2 Corin. 12:9, Jer. 20:9 Charlotte-Anne Allen
• Life’s achievements are like flower clusters growing from tough situations • Thrive where you are planted, where you find yourself • A worthy goal is to grow and produce good seed • Nourish a noble and good heart to make positive results • Keeping a low profile can help avoid pain and conflict • Lean on one another, persevere, be tough when needed • Stars shine out best when surrounded by darkness • Learn to bend and be flexible when we get stepped on • Spread out and enjoy the small moments • Don’t reject something simply because others perceive it as worthless • May you be encouraged on those days when you feel worn • When we cling to God we won’t be ground down in defeat • Take time to be refreshed, especially when in high-traffic areas • Peace grows from learning yourself and releasing all to God who planted you
From “Reflection from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen 6/15/2024
“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.”
The Still Small Voice 