Devotional Message from Rev. Mary White
Good Afternoon and Blessings
The signs all warned that one should only go with an experienced guide to the bottom of the Grand Canyon which was a mile deep. Added to this was the notice that whatever you take with you, you must bring out—yes, including used toilet paper. Being much younger, and looking for adventure, without a guide (we respected the other rules) and no previous training, we decided to hike to the canyon bottom and dip our toes into the Colorado River. Following the narrow mule trail into the canyon was not as difficult as the climb to rest at Plateau Point. Continuing up the Bright Angel Trail, we completed the thirteen- hour pilgrimage. My focus was very much on the present and prayer for strength to survive.
Keep safe, Keep connected.
Blessings and the strength of Love be with you.
Rev. Mary,
Reading Excerpt
Mark Whittall’s “ReImagine: Preaching in the Present Tense.”
Something More
We go on pilgrimage because we are looking for something less. Less, in that we are afforded the opportunity to set aside much of the baggage of our daily lives. Literally, that means that we travel with a small pack, about fourteen pounds depending on how full one’s water bottle is – one change of clothes, some toiletries, a sleeping bag, rain gear, a guidebook, a notebook, and a pen. That’s about it. But less also means fewer distractions. No job, no home to look after, no computer. More time spent in the present, less in the past or future. You wake, you walk, you stop, you eat, you walk, you think, you stop, you eat, you talk, you wash, you write, you look after your feet, you sleep. A pilgrimage provides the opportunity for less.
Prayer
Adventuring Spirit
You have traveled great distances with us on our life journey. We are graced with curiosity and a desire to explore the abundant gifts of nature.
May you continue to feed the adventurous child within and open our hearts to appreciate the mysteries of all that surrounds us. Spirit of pilgrimages and encounters, bless us this day, this night and always, keep us in Love.
Amen