Reflections
Kathy’s cousin makes her house in Maine available to us for a few days in the fall each year. We are deeply grateful for this very special gift.
I awake early each morning to watch the first sunlight touch the still waters of a small cove of the Sheepscot River, and I try to plan my day so as to participate in the setting of the sun over that same aquatic landscape. In addition to the way that sunrises and sunsets over this river nurture my soul, the ebb and flow of tides here in Maine are mesmerizing to this old country boy from Mississippi.
The difference between high and low tides here on Barter’s Island can be as much as five feet.
This morning I began to make the connection between the tides and my own soul’s journey.
During the ebbing tides of my life there’s an joy and contentment in the way things are, and, in my best moments, a deep appreciation for the Grace that touches me from beyond any efforts of my own.
But, I am also aware of the anxiety within me and the flowing tides when things don’t go as I planned, when people don’t do what I think they are supposed to do and when life appears to come unhinged. My anger in these moments is only a defense against a much deeper fear in my soul.
These are the low tides of my life.
This morning I reminded myself of a couple of things. First, the ebb and flow of the tides are natural and predictable. Unfortunately, the same can be said of my interior life. Thus, in the words of the old baptismal liturgy, I need something “that which by nature [I] cannot have”. My hope, my salvation, is not simply in the natural rhythms of life-as beautiful as they are- but in God’s grace, which is both a part and beyond nature.
Secondly, the lowest tide in this beautiful place reveals some very large, beautiful and mysterious boulders, that are completely covered and hidden by the higher tides. I am reminded that those painful moments in my life may provide opportunities to see important, even life-giving, things in my own soul that happier days would never allow to be seen.
I’ll keep watching-and praying.
Sunday’s Scriptures-a few quick thoughts
2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15
It’s so hard to recognize the gifts of one who I consider inferior. Yet, such seems to be God’s preferred way of acting.
Psalm 111
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. Recognizing that I am not the center of the universe has enormous implications for the way I see life and relate to others. It is a lifetime of struggle, but it is the path toward wisdom.
2 Timothy 2: 8-15
In faith, we participate in both Christ’s death and resurrection. How easy it is for us to try to avoid the dying to self part, then wonder why the resurrection piece has so little power.
Luke 17:11-19
For the Samaritan, part of “the least, the last and the lost”, as our Presiding Bishop is fond of saying, gratitude comes more easily. For the “strong, the safe and the secure”, as your vicar might say, belief that all that I have has been earned makes gratitude a more elusive commodity.
Other Matters Worth Noting
The Rev. Ann Whitaker will be our celebrant and preacher this Sunday. Ann and I switched her Sunday responsibilities around this month in order to allow Kathy and me to travel to Maine(see above). I so appreciate Ann’s flexibility!
Our Adult Sunday class for the fall begins next Sunday, October 16 at 9:15am. We will be meeting at the This Is Noteworthy Building (16s Main Street). Entitled “Episcopal Church 101: A Searcher’s Guide to Our Peculiar Way of Life”, the class is designed for folks searching for spiritual answers and maybe a spiritual home, as well as long time Episcopalians desiring a short “refresher” course.
Our formal Stewardship Campaign for 2023 begins October 23. Thanks to Kathryn York and the Finance Committee for their work on this campaign.
Finally, I had a great time at what I trust will become Nativity’s annual St. Francis Blessing of the Animals. The fellowship of all kinds was wonderful and it piqued interest in the wider community. Thanks to Alexe who got a great sign constructed that can be used year to year and James who provided treats and drink for all God’s critters.
Peace,
Duncan
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Also, From James Senior Warden: reminder that we have social hour following church on Sunday, October 30th, and we will be having a fall potluck at Beth and Robbie's house! Our hosts will provide chili, cornbread muffins, and a variety of drinks. Also, hot dogs and S'mores to roast over the fire pit for kids. If anyone else wishes to bring a dish, the appetizer, side, and dessert field is wide-open.
More reminders on the October 30th gathering to come!
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