What has happened in this world
And what is now to come?
God’s prophets told of things to come
When the time was right… it came to pass
Jesus spoke such words of truth
When the task was finished… it came to pass
Goodness came to fill the void
Where humankind tried to strive alone
We rest assured that as we follow
With God, great things will come to pass.
Charlotte-Anne Allen
Caught within a glowing orb
Time remembers
Of life and movement
Growth and endings
Enfolded in days past
And brought forth revealed
Its beauty seen
Reflecting on things long gone,
Clarity of today, and future bright
… Miracles of creation
So, we too follow God’s Light
His presence with us always.
Charlotte-Anne Allen
“Sit with me! Stay with me just a little longer, please!” Similar plaints of a sleepy child at bedtime speak of need and trust… and a hope of delaying sleep and reluctance to acknowledge the day’s end.
While we often treasure quiet time alone, there is also within us an appreciation and a need of another’s comforting presence, isn’t there?!
“Come on in. Stay a while,” others may say. Spending time with family, friends, and new acquaintances can have many benefits. Shared experiences and interests often bring us together, whether through enjoyment or trials. Spending time together can bring a sense of security, unity, and mutual understanding… especially when we face changes or prepare for a different future than that expected or hoped for.
There is a bonding and strengthening, both in times of loss and of celebration, when someone thinks of us and shares their time and presence. It cheers the heart and turns our eyes toward our Creator God.
All this and more seems to open my heart and understanding to God Himself, to realize His great love and the sacrifice He made to come among us, His children. God offered us His very presence, a Light among us, and invited us to join Him!… How wonderfully amazing is that?!
Through the simple willingness of Mary, Jesus Christ (God’s Son) entered the word to live among us and with us… and to bring us hope and new life.
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,
and they will call him Immanuel”
(which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:23
As God came to be with us, didn’t He also open the door for us to come to Him? In coming to God, as we believe in Him, we receive the promise that He will be with us always. I love that we were not left as lonely lost children when earthly Jesus moved back to His heavenly quarters. God’s full presence continued through the Holy Spirit, and He is still with us. *
Wherever we are in life today, may we find comfort and joy in God’s presence. May we come as a little child, remembering the gift of the child and resting with the One who understands and loves us. God be with us.
*John 14
Charlotte-Anne Allen
When in the boat and on the way
Do storm clouds strive to lure us away?
Or climbing trails as we then go
Enticing side paths beckon so?
Perhaps in strolling through the mall
Let’s grab the grand and ditch the small?
When at my place reclining at last
Has a chance to serve come… and passed?
Eyes travel to what’s not mine
Make excuses that it’s just fine?
To follow desire when the time’s all wrong
Will there be regrets before too long?
Ears listening to words of spite or strife
What does that do to encourage life?
Fling the door open to invite
Help from God to shine the Light
Temptation scatters as He brings the best
Strength to overcome and then to rest.
Hebrews 4:14-16
Oh, that time would stand still!
In those moments of bright clarity
Treasured in our hearts and
Seared in our memories
Of those we hold dear
For life and love and family
Friends and church gathered ‘round
God’s holy ground, simple and true
We open eyes to brilliant color
Ears to laughter and tears
A gentle touch and helping hands
Life’s essence … caught in a fleeting moment.
Charlotte-Anne Allen 2/25/2022
“What’s up?” I say in greeting you,
In comfortable companionship.
Just hanging out and sharing life
Now there’s no rush with you and me.
“Oh, nothing much,” …but some days are long,
Going here… Doing this and that.
Just for now, let’s take a breather.
“So, what is up with you?”
With friends who care, we can be ourselves
And share our time and space.
To hear each other and really listen,
Offering support and being a presence.
“What’s up?” we say in recognition,
Doing this thing called life together.
A puff of wind upon my skin
And sun’s rays transform the day
Memories of morning’s dreary sky fade
As time’s settled dust is chased and lifted
Freshen, freshen
Earth’s voices call
Splash of water, clean and pure
Songs and rhythms now renew!
Darting fish in coolest depths
Shading trees unfurl green buds
Freshen, freshen
Healing nourishing
Dusty feet and weary minds
Shed discontent… stretch and rouse
Quickening hearts claim moment’s peace
Restore, revive … and freshen
• Strength of character is an asset
• Dedication and hard work are commendable
• Working together brings about strong finishes
• Think and pray before making commitments
• When you make a commitment stick to it
• Keep your goals ever before you
• Remember to take time out for a slower pace
• Spend quiet solitary time to reflect
• Join others in relaxed company
• Letting go of anxiety develops inner peace
• Mind and body absorb whatever you immerse yourself in
• Thoughts turned to the Spirit lead to contentment in life
from “Reflections from the Everyday”
Brown soil
Deep roots
Drifting clouds
Growing fields
Warm breezes
Flowing waters
Food and drink
Nourish all
Times rhythms
Rising waning
Warmth and sun
Cool night sky
Heaven’s lights
Called by name
Gathered closely
God sustains us
• Transitions may cause both anticipation and anxiety
• Be watchful and allow time for outcomes to develop
• Value the past for it prepares us for the todays and tomorrows
• We grow accustomed to the familiar and the constant
• The cries and words of the forgotten are paid no heed
• Loss is felt the greatest when we first realize absence
• The roar of circumstances can drown out all else
• The effects of our experiences crawl into all areas of our life
• Our soul is carried in the swell and fall of majestic music
• Join your voices for the cause of good and wholeness
• A joyful chorus gains strength as others join in
• Lift your voice and your hands when the season is right
• Hear the words of the One who calls us to Him
• Gather nourishment for each day from God our source
from “Reflections from the Everyday”
The Still Small Voice 