A Journey Through Advent: Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021
by The Rev. Harry Leip,
Archdeacon, The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri
and Deacon, Trinity Episcopal Church, Central West End / St. Louis
Today's readings: Psalm 23; Isaiah 25:6-9; Matthew 15:29-39
Leaf
We pause
In a moment of waiting, of wondering
Lamenting what has come before
We ponder expectantly
In uncertainty
A leaf drops from its secure perch,
Unsure of the unpredictable wind
But certain that the breath will conduct them into places unknown
Of newness
Of wildness
Providence. The departure, the letting go
Allows the tender leaf to willingly surrender to the future
Certain that gravity, that invisible but inevitable force will manifest
And carry hope onward
Perhaps, just perhaps
We are the leaf, fervently following the relentless routines of our life
Ever predictable, beguiling
With false promises of certainty
But maybe, just maybe – we stop . . .
We let go
We reach for that lofty hope
Whispered by angels
Across lonely fields
Beyond green pastures
Barbara laughs
And taking a long drag from her cigarette
Watches the ash tumble, descending onto the well-worn avenue of the Saints
That petulant
Irrepressible
Multitude
Who breathe in the knowingness of God,
Evermore whispering that saintly secret:
To let go
And be tossed
By the wind
On the Spirit’s tempestuous currents
Is to rest in the hope that embraces each of us.
Falling
Floating
Arriving
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