Fault Line
Danny Belrose of Independence, MO, USA
We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. -Romans 8:22-27
Beneath my iffy beliefs and fleeting hopes faith’s fault line never sleeps.
Rumbling here then there its troubled dance divides my head and heart-hiding, shifting, shaking, awakening questions posed and answers sought.
While dreams of feathered angels’ wings soar far beyond veracity in search of simple certitude stamped sure by childlike psalms and prayers that push the dark away.
Astride this deep divide, each foot a world apart, I fix my gaze on treasured times when wonder ruled my heart.
Sweet memories of mysteries of miracles and fantasies, of words and deeds and prophesies-where crumbs of bread and drops of wine cupped within Love’s healing hands spun promises of pearly gates, a never-land of joy and peace for lion, lamb, and child.
But comfort’s kiss of yesterday is fleeting and benign and sacredness cannot be bound by magic’s sleight of hand.
Foundations deeply shaken by probing of the mind have silenced songs of make-believe and stirred within my revelry the witness of eternity:
The Spirit breathes beyond our creeds, and Love is not a dream.
Stripped clean of measured litanies, of strained beliefs and fantasies, the mystic will not die.
Faith’s whispered invocation forever calls my name.
\xc2\xa9 Danny A. Belrose, 2011, used by permission
Prayer Phrase
“Attention is the beginning of devotion” (Mary Oliver).
Spiritual Practice
Holy Attention
Engaging in the practice of holy attention allows us to suspend our inner conversations and agendas and give reverent and receptive focus to a specific person or portion of God’s creation. Regarding another as an unrepeatable miracle whose life journey is unique and sacred brings awareness to and affirmation of God’s presence in all creation. We do this in the spirit of Christ who saw into the deep hearts of people and recognized their true identities as God’s beloved. Spend time this day in prayerful attention to God’s creation, to the people in your life, and to your daily surroundings.
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.
