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+

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

March 2

And She Danced

I watched as my daughter danced around the room. She was completely in a world where no one else existed. If she had noticed me, the moment would have ended. For a brief second, time stood absolutely still.

I felt tears trickling down my checks. Where has the time gone? Wasn’t she just a baby? Didn’t the doctor just yesterday raise her up over the curtain for me to see? When did she become such a little person? Am I raising her right?

As I watched her dance, I marveled at her innocent beauty, and I wondered if I had done enough so far. Have I instilled in her the importance of love? Has she learned to look for the good in all persons? Does she have compassion and empathy? Will she grow up to know the meaning of true joy? Who will she become, and am I giving her all she needs?

As she spinned and twirled, I wondered if this is how God feels. Does God marvel at us? Does he hold his breath and wonder if we will get it right? If we will see the good in others and act when others are in pain? Does God smile when we are happy and cry when we are hurting? Does he struggle when we make bad decisions and hurt others? Does he rejoice when we find joy and cheer when we have a big moment? Does God feel joy and frustration over things we do? Does God wonder who we will ultimately become?

I do not have the answers to any of these questions, but I do like to think God is watching me when I dance – even when I think no one else is looking.

Donna Purdy

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