Good Evening and Blessings
Please adhere to the new restrictions the scientists are advising today. The virus variants are more potent in that they are like aerosol sprayed in the air. Let’s all remain vigilant and continue to be masked even when outside and remember to wash your hands regularly.
This means being in solitude for a bit longer but, this is the best way to keep ourselves and others safe.
Keep safe, Keep connected.
https://powellriverunitedchurch.org
Blessings and the strength of Love be with you.
Rev. Mary,
Reading
– Excerpt from “The Only Necessary Thing” by Henri Nouwen
The more I think about loneliness, the more I think that the wound of loneliness is like the Grand Canyon –– a deep incision in the surface of our existence which has become an inexhaustible source of beauty and self -understanding.
Therefore, I would like to voice loudly and clearly what might seem unpopular and maybe even disturbing: the Christian way of life does not take away our loneliness; it protects and cherishes it as a precious gift. Sometimes it seems as if we do everything possible to avoid the painful confrontation with our basic human loneliness and allow ourselves to be trapped by false gods promising immediate satisfaction and quick relief. But perhaps the painful awareness of loneliness is an invitation to transcend our limitation and look beyond the boundaries of our existence. The awareness of loneliness might be a gift we must protect and guard, because our loneliness reveals to us an inner emptiness that can be destructive when misunderstood but filled with promise for the one who can tolerate its sweet pain.
Prayer
Beloved One
deepen and strengthen my faith so that I can see with new eyes and hear with new ears the signs and signals of your presence in my own world. It is my allowing distractions which keeps me from being fully aware of your powerful actions here and now. You are present; you work wonders no less today than in the days of your life with your disciples. Let me be so taken by what you show me and by what you say to me that your vision and hearing become my guide in life and impart meaning to all my concerns.
Stay with me always.
Amen