Lent Photo Challenge: Present

I’ve been a Church Leader for almost 26 years now.
Over the years the role has varied a bit.
Responsibilities have changed.

Some things are now “a requirement for officers “
That weren’t when I signed up.

And some things I no longer do
in an effort to prevent the ‘boom or bust’
of living with depression for all of those years.

I work and live within strict boundaries
Parts of my role that were once as familiar as my breath
Are now rare.

One of our congregation is dying.
I haven’t visited since her diagnosis.
My partner in life, crime and ministry has been every week.
He’s good like that.

Today we will go to the hospice together.
I want to see her.
Even though I have little to offer her.

We go.
In the footprints 
of countless ministers of religion 
all over the world

To be present.
To share scripture.
To pray words of life
as the days of her life draw to a close.

I can be present 
because the one who loves me most of all
has promised to be everywhere I am.

For the far future I cannot see;
Promise your Presence?
Travel with me?
Sunshine or Shadow?
I cannot tell

You. Know. I. Love. You
All. Will. Be. Well.

(John Gowans)




Comments

Unknown said…
Beautifully expressed - thank you fir sharing. Prayers assured x
18 March 2019 at 12:52
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