Had enough yet?


It doesn’t have to be the blue iris, it could be the weeds in a vacant lot, or a few small stones; just pay attention. . . . –Mary Oliver


Have you noticed lately how loud and how large the world seems to have become? News headlines blare their way across our television screens and our computer screens. Even when we mute the volume, the animosity and noise remain apparent.

Mother Nature herself, in my part of the world, seems to be crying out for our attention, sending not rain, but deluge, not wind, but gale force.

It is as if we are standing with Elijah at the mouth of the cave, anxiously waiting for some sign, a promised Presence of the Lord. With all the hollering, sometimes it truly feels as if God is nowhere to be found. Do not believe it.

Haven’t we had about enough of the loud bullying in the world? Do we even pay attention any more, when those who claim to follow the Christ become bullies of the first order? Where is the quiet, gentle voice of God’s Love in this place?

It’s right there, where it has always been. Quietly whispering to our souls. After the fires burn out and the floods recede, there, in what first looks like destruction, is the incontrovertible evidence of new life, of promise. Seeds of Hope, there for those who have eyes to see.

Pull up your cloak around your face. Listen. Focus your vision. Do not be distracted by the junk and noise of the world. Look deeply. God is now here.

Monday Take an extra bottle of water with you today when you go out. Offer it to a worker or someone who just looks thirsty. Say a quick prayer. 1 Kings 19:3-5

Tuesday Before you go to bed tonight, send a quick text or note to someone you love. Let them know they are in your prayers. 1 Kings 19:6-9a

Wednesday If you are at a store today that donates to a charitable organization, today say yes—and give $1. 1 Kings 19:9b

Thursday When was the last time you treated yourself to a bouquet of cut flowers? Go ahead—you deserve a touch of beauty in your home. 1 Kings 19:10-11

Friday Instead of focusing on what’s wrong with the world, today focus on what’s right. No complaining (not even to God). Smile till it hurts. J 1 Kings 19:12-13

Saturday As you pray today for yourself, sincerely ask God for wide open eyes, deep listening ears and/ or a heart that truly cares for those whom Jesus loved. How will you live into these gifts? 1 Kings 19:14

Sunday Let the joy of the Lord fill your spirit in worship today! Don’t be afraid to laugh out loud with friends. Life is good; God is with us in all seasons. Give thanks and praise! 1 Kings 19:15

I know as I create this meal there is another cooking going on. It, too, is all motion, all process—an inner transformation. Help me to give myself away as easily as this carrot, this new potato. I want my layers to peel away like the onion’s. I want to be as empty and clean as the universe in a sweet green pepper with its white star seeds. 
–Gunilla Norris

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