My mind has been flooding with thoughts of late.
Many stem from thoughts upon scriptures, life stories, sacred stories as I seek words for a sermon I am to give in August. It has led to frustration at times, and joy at others. I think I am still from it, but the adventure so far has been interesting. Yesterday at the surprise Birthday part of a friend, I sat, I stood, and my mind wondered as I saw the joy in the eyes of infants, children, youth, young adults, adults and adults with many more years of wisdom than I. this morning I spent hours in the garden, praying, reading and reflecting on scripture, being aware of creation, exploring possible expressions, phrases, stories, thoughts for the sermon, and more. Then a wonderful prayer service where my mind fell upon many things, and my soul at deepest levels touched by grace and possibility. A communion service, with sermon that touched and brought my mind to wonder, through sacred encountered in sacramental bread and wine, and song and prayer my soul was moved even more. My thanks given to those sharing in their ministry, one of whom after taking a few steps turned back and said some words to me that surprised me. words that brought me hope, peace, and joy, and also puzzlement, not knowing what prompted the sharing those words at that moment, but peace coming with them none the less. Ah and possibility for that which is and that which is yet to be…
A day of tours, sharing thoughts and reflections with a friend doing research for his dissertation. Changing bulbs, eating food, and then going to the House of the Lord and allowing my hands to flow across the keys of the piano and music to erupt. As I played I found the music that came to be to be much more joyous than many of the times of late. This playing, a form of prayer for me, was truly expressing more joy than often, even when I had felt more joyful. It was truly an amazing way to start this evening and continue the reflections and thoughts of the past two days.
My mind still wonders, the sermon far from reaching, and yet perhaps nearer. I think as well it may be that the mixture pf thoughts, ideas and possibilities in my mind are fragments of two, or three or maybe even more sermons, all seeking a way to reality, and yet not all of, or perhaps even the majority of the sermon I am currently trying to formulate. I am also pondering the possibility of a trip to the pacific Northwest, which could perhaps include providing guest ministry at a congregation there… thus perhaps another sermon will be born in the weeks ahead with the one seeking to form now. Time will tell..
Peace be with you,
Lyle II
— Lyle II