March 26, 2010

Checked Out

Read: Micah 6:7-9

I find that I am in a funk. I have “checked out” emotionally and mentally. “Out” of what I am not sure. Everyday life? Maybe not the everyday routine stuff but the stuff that matters? I am not sure, but I find I have been more reflective. I was especially interested in this year’s various Martin Luther King Day celebrations. I think because of my own state of mind, I am searching for Dr. King’s vision. I was inspired and excited at the celebration held at our own church; the idea of a beloved community is a wonderful concept. I had come across the following poem (or prayer) by Maya Angelou last June and felt like it was a prayer FOR me; meaning, I needed this prayed for me.

Reflecting on the Lenten season, this poem came to mind again. I was thinking; why not take on the tasks ourselves? Working toward a non-violent, caring, full of love no matter who or what or where kind of community. A beloved community. What if instead of asking God to speak for those with no voice, WE do the speaking; for those who are lonely, WE keep them company? I know I have it in me; I have seen it before. I am willing to take the journey and ask God to help me find it again; to become the person full of the Spirit and Love that will help me be a better Christian and better person. What better time to start the journey than now with the promise of Easter before me.

I hope this poem/prayer inspires you as well. I hope that we can pray it and reach the final goal – Peace.


PRAYER by Maya Angelou

Father Mother God, thank You for Your presence during the hard and mean days.
For then we have You to lean upon.

Thank You for Your presence during the bright and sunny days, for then we can share that which we have with those who have less.

And thank You for Your presence during the Holy Days, for then we are able to celebrate You and our families and our friends.

For those who have no voice, we ask You to speak.

For those who feel unworthy, we ask You to pour Your love out in waterfalls of tenderness.

For those who live in pain, we ask You to bathe them in the river of Your healing.

For those who are lonely, we ask You to keep them company.

For those who are depressed, we ask You to shower upon them the light of hope.

Dear Creator, You, the borderless sea of substance, we ask You to give to all the world that which we need most – Peace.

Amen.

Laurie Stowell