Memories

Memories are extremely powerful.  In my travels, I continue to be caught by an involuntary flash from a long hidden memory.  A particular smell, a unique sound often irrelevant in any other context, or even as I brush up against a particular texture, will jerk me into a time and place that I have not been to for a long time.  It is a very weird experience!  Without any sense of memory, I am fourteen again.  Without any longing or desire, I find myself grabbling with the angst of youth.  Even against my will, I find myself in a moment of beauty.  It is wonderful, frightening, and awe filling to see how connected the past and present continue to be.
It is also rather ironic.  There is so much going on in my immediate and virtual world, that I often find myself forgetting the basics I hold so important.  I long for family even as I jam more into my present.  I long quietness even as I sit on various telephone calls until the early morning hours.  I long God even as I ignore every whisper, reminder, and call.  I doubt that my response is unique.  I know that it is expected and accepted by many.
Fortunately, we have a God that is bigger than our narrow vision and willingness to respond.  Divinity's invitation is always present.  As I look out on the light of a new day the call of the Spirit cannot be ignored. “Yes, take a good look.  Then you'll see how faithfully I've loved you and you'll want even more, saying, 'May God be even greater, beyond the borders of Israel!'”  (Malachi 1.5)
Today is a time to remember and walk forward in knowledge and confidence.  Today is a time to pause and focus on the present.  Today is an opportunity to turn towards God and in the process towards life itself. God has and will continue to engage in the details of your life and mine.  God has and will always be in love with you and me.  God is present.