PORCH
a soft place to land
a calm weekend haven
a gentle pause from life's busyness
so we may experience
the tender lovingkindness of Jesus
as we do life together
in community
in community
Every evening this past week, I've been jotting down 4 random happenstances that have sparked gratitude in my expectant soul. No overthinking or analyzing. Serendipitous gifts that remind me again that God is in the details of life's dailyness. All the details, all the time.
SUNDAY
smart chickens that quickly outwitted a menacing hawk
a quiet afternoon car ride with hot chocolate in hand
adding an overflowing autumn basket to the mantel
windchimes clanging loudly on a gusty, starless night
MONDAY
warm woolen socks for chilly feet on a frigid morn
ferreting out the best bargains for the food pantry
the calming scent of a honey-crisp apple candle
the company of spiritual companion Henri Nouwen
TUESDAY
iron-sharpens-iron relationships
God's kindest grace when memories of Mom are triggered
walking the labyrinth praying 1 Samuel 3:10 & John 14:27
chowing down the best bbq ribs ever
WEDNESDAY
my childhood blanket warms me on a short beach walk
my childhood blanket warms me on a short beach walk
Christmas lights glow on windowsills
reconnecting with old friends
a doorstopper of a new novel
THURSDAY
Spirit's presence at an awesome worship service
Thanksgiving chicken pie picnic on the porch
the welcome sound of laughter & little feet running through the house
sheer joy of an afternoon nap before more pies take center stage
'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free,
'Tis the gift to come down where I ought to be;
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gained,
To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed;
to turn, turn, will be my delight.
Till by turning, turning we come round right.
Joseph Brackett
1797 - 1882
I can't wait to hear about your Thanksgiving week, the simple gifts you've given and received, your thoughts as Advent begins, and all little miracles that have come from the hands of our gracious God ...
Linda
