As we are seen

Lead me in your truth, and teach me. (Psalm 25 5a)

The locust tree whispers, autumn gilding its leaves. A maple across the lawn replies in red. Not a word is spoken, but my heart hears and fills with silent love for the beauty of it all.

They are my teachers today. They lead me into God’s own truth, which is not a list of beliefs or a moral code. It is to see through eyes of love, for God is love and only love sees the truth.

The truth will break your heart at the suffering of children, the brutalities of war or the death of a friend. But it will mend it again when the beauty of kindness takes your breath away.

If you want to know the truth, do something that awakens love deep within. Then, think of friends and enemies, the mess of the world, people who annoy you, a child or grandchild. Recall memories that make you wince because you were unkind, foolish, insecure or arrogant. Let the love you feel pour over every memory, every person, every pain.

Look back with love, and see ... as God sees.

David L. Miller

Disarmed

 Unless you ... become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:3)

Sonia caught my eye as I turned to share the peace during worship. Seven, I suppose, she stood close to her mother, shy eyes peering through a thick cascade of dark hair. I bent low and extended my right hand to share what the words say, “Peace.”

She smiled and took my hand, before holding a small stuffed animal out to me. “What’s her name?” I asked. “Tara,” she whispered, clutching it again to her chest.

With this, I was undone, my heart totally disarmed. Love surged through me for the preciousness of her heart, so totally open to receive and share a simple moment of grace and care.

I wanted to extend the gift of God’s peace to her, but she became a sacrament, awakening the great love God is flowing within and between us. My heart became as unguarded as hers, ready to receive and share the holy kindness of God. 

It was only a moment, soon past. But I will be looking for her again next Sunday. She helped me enter heaven’s kingdom.

David L. Miller