The Grandly Wonderful Scale of Creating
John Bonney of Springfield, OR, USA
Shun youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. -2 Timothy 2:22
This morning as I was walking, I saw five black vultures sailing around in the sky above, catching the rising thermals as those lifting heat sources developed. I love to see the bird life throughout the seasons of the year, in spite of the fact that my eyesight is so poor. Having them close to our patio is a treat.
Then I imagine a bit further, and a bit further, and I see creation. Not so much creation or creator, but the grandly wonderful scale of creating that is taking place all around us all of the time. Not just the birds in front of me, not just the plants or the movements of air. I sense the depth and breadth of that source of all-that which I call the Basis of Being. I imagine the ongoing proliferation of stars and galaxies, of novae and supernovae. I see universes and galaxies coming into being and stars and planets and all marvels of the creative presence.
I am overwhelmed with the immensity of that presence. I don’t know how to identify it or what to call it. It is merely there and I do not need to personify it. It is simply the Source. It is expressed in you and the birds in whom I find identity, and also in all kinds of earthly flora and fauna. It is in the grand mountains and the trees that clap their hands. It is in every wonderful iota of life and un-life on this small planet, as well as all other planets and conditions and messages of nobility and worth.
And I know that each of you is a message of brilliance and worth. Without seeing you, my heart goes out and I sense the Namaste Spirit which not only dwells in you but is you. It is enough.
Prayer Phrase
“… the breath of the Almighty gives me life” (Job 33:4).
Spiritual Practice
Breathing God’s Compassion
Pay attention to your breathing and let it become calmer and deeper as you focus on God’s presence. Ask God to breathe in you. Imagine each breath carrying the light of God into your lungs, bloodstream, and every cell in your body until God’s Spirit fills you. Now imagine breathing out God’s compassion and grace each time you exhale, especially into places and situations in need of loving care. Give thanks to the Spirit, source of every breath, source of life.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
