Within this collection of stories, reflections, and writings, you will find windows into the mystery of God. Members and friends of our parish have written pieces for use as devotionals in this season of Lent. Most all of the works are original, and they range from poems to personal stories to reflections on scripture. Some will evoke tears or laughter, while others may not do much for us at all. The pieces are as unique as the writers, and they may not resonate with everyone, which is fine. But it is my hope that with each daily entry we will all find some way to connect with God.


My thanks to those who contributed to this project. It takes courage to offer something publicly as we have done with this collection. I know that some of you have gone well outside your comfort zone to reflect spiritually on parts of your life or to share ideas that you have treasured for yourself. I also want to thank Tiffany Ayers who used her skills as an editor to put this collection together and catch all of our typos and literary bobbles.


I pray that each of us would find this Lenten Season a holy and special time.


In Christ’s Peace,

Fr. Tom+

Thursday, February 18, 2010

February 18

Psalm 1:3
God Is Like a Stream



They are like trees that grow beside a stream, that bear fruit at the right time, and whose leaves do not dry up. They succeed in everything they do.


God is like the stream that runs beside a tree. He provides and nourishes the people who believe in Him.

The roots of the tree soak up the water that runs in the stream below. The tree could not exist and could not bear its rich fruits without a constantly full stream. The stream helps the tree reach its full potential – keeping its leaves looking fresh and green and helping its fruit grow.

God is like this stream in that he is constantly there for you when you need him. When I am asked, “Where do you see God in your life,” I honestly do not know. But just as the tree’s roots naturally draw on the water, I know that I can count on God being there for me without having to confirm that he is there.

It is comforting to know that God is always there for you when you need him for any reason. All you have to do is talk to God, and he will be there to listen and support you.

Because God is constantly in our lives to protect and to guide us, we are able to reach our full potential. God gives us our talents, and then we are called upon to put those talents to good use. Those talents can come in many forms, from helping with church, playing an instrument, singing in a choir, or simply smiling at a person to make them feel welcome. Like the tree fed by the water, we are able to produce an abundance of fruit.

God is seen throughout the day, but it is hard to pick one point because he is like the constant running of a stream. He is always there.

Abigail Tjornehoj

3 comments:

  1. I feel that way as well, and have talked to God and my "angels" (departed loved ones) throughout the day for as long as I can remember. I know they all guide and protect us.

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  2. Very nice Abigail. I really like your reflection. We have to remind ourselves of this often and concentrate on it more when times are tough.

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  3. It is good to be reminded of this! In both good and bad times we can forget where the source of life is, and it runs so silently that we may forget it's there...

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