Read
“Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.” (Psalm 33:8)

Reflect
This morning actually started about three days ago, or at least that is how it felt. On Friday, my car dramatized a scene from Stephen King’s “Christine.” That meant on Saturday I needed to tow my car to the dealership and rent a new car, with no transportation but a stroller. Then on Sunday, some dear parishioners suffered a terrible tragedy, so funeral planning began. At the same time, all the usual Monday morning tasks shouted to be completed.

I stared at my computer screen and I felt the tightness in my chest. I thought, ”I have so much I need to do today, and yet I am frozen.” Finally, I pushed back my chair. I left my office and stepped outside.

Right outside my office is a small crepe myrtle tree. I walked close to the tree and stopped. At the root of the tree, a squirrel ate his morning meal. Suddenly, he saw me. He seemed to stare at me, perhaps considering a run for it, but he did not run. He continued to eat. So I stood still and watched him. I just watched, mesmerized by his little actions and fluffy tail. Finally he finished eating, wiped his face with his paws, climbed the tree, and I couldn’t see him anymore.

In that quiet moment, time slowed and tasks disappeared. In that quiet opportunity in nature, I could marvel at the actions of a furry creature and delight in witnessing his morning meal. In the stillness, I remembered wonder and was reminded that I, too, am part of this glorious creation. With that knowledge, I could return to my tasks and take the joy with me.

-Mary Koppel

Respond
Set a timer for 10 minutes, then be still. Outside or inside, take the time to notice what you hear, see, feel, experience. Just be still in the presence of God.