Streams of Mercy

Sometimes ministry and life can be complicated. One’s motives become suspect, lack of trust and defensive behaviors are the order of the day, there’s more talking than listening and little effort to reach understanding. I’m learning that using certain words and phrases can evoke an immediate backlash, so words must be chosen with care. Such are the days in which we’re living.

In such a week, three blessings from past relationships fell upon life’s troubled pathway to encourage my spirit: the Jackson Springs community Club, a poem by an old friend and a memorial service for a dear friend in a former congregation.

After months of concern with the pandemic, the Jackson Springs Community Club gathered once again. With the club “matriarch” in a care facility and the “patriarch” present on his walker, members gathered, grateful to be together again. The familiar little meat loaves, chocolate pie, butter beans with okra, the apple dumplings, green beans and cucumbers and squash graced the table, and a red basket filled with local peaches was there to be shared by all. We picked right up where we left off – sharing community concerns and praying, giving scholarships to two graduating seniors, talking about needed repairs to our beloved old building, hoping we’ll be able to begin thinking about the Annual Community Chicken ‘n Dumplings Supper and Auction, and closing with the Pledge of Allegiance, after being reminded it was Flag Day! So good to be together again!

My friend died of Covid-19 at the age of 98 years in January of 2021. Her family gathered today at Bennettsville Presbyterian for a Memorial Service in the chapel, as she’d always wanted. I shared with the family a special memory of a visit with her one day several years ago. When I came into her room, she was sitting by a sunny window with her eyes shut and a lovely smile on her face. I bent down and whispered in her ear, “I hope you’re having a pleasant dream!” She opened her eyes and said, “I’m sitting here thinking of all the wonderful blessings I’ve had in my life.” I find myself doing just that from time to time these days – spending time remembering and giving thanks for all the wonderful blessings I’ve had in my life. Good advice for all of us!

I came across this poem from an old friend. While it was a poem written for Easter in his final year, it speaks to feelings stirring in these days of seeking the promise of a new beginning after so many months with life “on hold.”

Lord,

send me a SURPRISE.

One that catches me off guard

And makes me wonder.

Like EASTER.

Send me a RESURRECTION …

When everything looks dead and buried.

Send me LIGHT

When the night seems too long.

Send ma a new IDEA

When my mind is empty.

Send me a THING TO DO

when I am just waiting around.

Send me a new FRIEND

When I am alone.

Send me PEACE

when I am afraid.

Send me a FUTURE

When it looks hopeless …

These three blessings bring encouragement and hope to me, as we watch for and work for the new things God is doing, and discover how to come together in new ways.

Elizabeth