Message

The morning reflection is already dancing on the side of the house.  It is as if the gentle blue water, sunlight, and warmth have enveloped the scene, pushing peace and reflection out onto anyone currently within its arms.  As I let myself be drawn in I find myself recalling faces and situations long forgotten over the years.  As the scenes play themselves out between the dancing reflections there are common themes transcending time, cultures, and families.
 
Tragedy has been a familiar companion to every face.  Frequently those with the most peace in their eyes and lives find themselves in the middle of chaos, turmoil, and uncertainty.  As one takes the time to appreciate the extremes in their lives one finds hope living, growing, and impacting anyone willing to be touched.
 
Handicaps may be used as an excuse for not doing something; and yet those who give away the unlimited amounts of peace and hope often live with handicaps which could easily overwhelm the strongest among us.  If they are living life to the fullest with the handicaps they carry, why do I think I have a right to complain?
 
Giving is a norm in the lives of those with peace, unrelated to anything they have of what the world considers of value.  .It is as if a generous spirit, full of hope and confidence, compassion and mercy is linked to the essence of their life and journey.
 
In the quietness of this morning, with the gentle sounds of a pool at peace, I find myself sharing these thoughts with you.  “Dear Israel, you've been through a lot, you've been put through the mill.  The good news I get from God-of-the-Angel-Armies, the God of Israel, I now pass on to you.”  (Isaiah 21.10)  You are God’s child.  You are God’s hope.  You are God’s friend.  There may be tragedies, obstacles, and handicaps in your life and mine.  There are reasons to be afraid; Evil walks along side you and me.  Our message is clear – Hope is our friend, Peace our partner, Compassion our mission.  God is here.