The Universe – A Reflection
This has been another wonderful yet exhausting day of ministry. Zoom Midday Prayer and Fellowship with our congregation. Stephen Ministry training, and time with dear parishioners.
It has also been a time to connect with dear friends in ministry and on the frontlines of the COVID-19 Pandemic in New York City. At times it can feel overwhelming. I remember that feeling well from my time in hospital ministry and crisis response as a USAF Chaplain. I am reminded though of the depth of connection and mutual support amongst colleagues in the Chaplaincy, Medical Corps, and Mental Health Community to name a few. When the “stuff” hits the fan, we were a united team providing care to those in need. So tonight I pray for our dear friends in NYC and ask you, dear reader to do the same. For them and for all the care providers all around the world who are knee deep in the trenches. When you are up against the wall (psychologically, spiritually, or physically) I can tell you first hand that those prayers and the love of so many friends and strangers make a huge difference.
Thomas Merton, in his book Choosing to Love the World: On Contemplation says the following about our connection to each other and to the Universe:
“Either you look at the universe as a very poor creation out of which no one can make anything or you look at your own life and your own part in the universe as infinitely rich, full of inexhaustible interest, opening out into infinite further possibilities for study and contemplation and interest and praise. Beyond all and in all is God.”
During this time of struggle when so many are putting their lives and their spirits on the line, may we indeed be connected as we seek to serve the God of Love!
