Tell me a story!

The story of life is quicker than the blink of an eye, the story of life is hello, goodbye. 
–Jimi Hendrix


Every stained glass window has a story to tell. More than just pretty pictures of people who are no longer with us, these colorful mosaics speak to our history and beliefs as a people of faith. Even young children who cannot yet make sense of the printed word find themselves spellbound, immersed in the colorful beauty of centuries-old tales.

Last week, a friend shared a story of his own astonishing experience with a stained glass window on a brilliant spring morning.

One window in our sanctuary, a tall, narrow one, mostly blue but with vivid accents of yellow and red, is capped at the very top by a pure white dove. The dove sits with her back to the early morning sun, illuminated and brought to life as the sun’s rays push through.

Her image is cast on the main aisle of the sanctuary below, a reminder of God’s Holy Spirit descending in our midst, filling our hearts and lives. And as the sun climbs higher in the sky, my friend recalls, something even more beautiful happens.

Slowly but surely, the dove makes her way down that center aisle, wandering among the pews. My friend said it was like watching God’s own Spirit infiltrating our midst, seeking and searching for willing hearts to fill.

This is the story we share, a story of mystery and hope, told without words. How has God shown God’s self in your life, quietly reminding you of God’s loving presence?


Monday Pray for students and teachers as the school year begins to wind down. Give thanks for summer programs that offer love, learning-- and sometimes, food to families while school is out. Matthew 19:13-14

Tuesday Pray for parents and families as summer comes upon us. Give thanks for all families-- and for families separated by circumstances. Ruth 1:15-18

Wednesday Pray today for our Outreach ministries. How might you become a part of these activities? Give thanks for those who give of their time and gifts to Mary B. Martin, Neighborhood Lunch, Basketball, Famicos—and more. Matthew 25:31-36

Thursday As you pray, seek to identify one thing in your life that takes time away from family, friends or God. Just for today—do less. Psalm 130:5-6

Friday Pray today for eyes that can see the extraordinary in our ordinary, everyday world. Give thanks for the obvious. Psalm 145:14-16

Saturday During your prayer time, lean into the silence. Listen more, speak less. Breathe. Relax; refresh; rejoice. 1 Kings 19:11-13

Sunday As we greet one another, share with one (or more than one) person a time when they have been light in your life. Give thanks for your church community of love and life. Acts 2:42-47

If you want a happy ending, that depends, of course, on where you end the story. 
–Orson Welles
 (A good story never dies.) –Roberta Williams

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