Reflection: Grace - PG# 4902 (2005/2006)
by Mama Edie Armstrong
Grace in my life is that dimension of God that acknowledges my imperfections and yet moves him to love me anyway. It is the tenderness of a father who must also at times be stern. It is his amazing propensity to love us unconditionally, so that even when we may not take the time to acknowledge him, he is always there. This is amazing grace. It is amazing grace that at times provides a mother with unusual strength, so that she will not have to see her child suffer. It is amazing grace that gives us the patience to honor the right for people to be who they are, whether it meets with our approval or not. It is amazing grace that gives us strength to endure the otherwise unbearable and yet know how to sing. It was amazing grace that had God send his son to die so that we might live. Grace is the balance of both the sweetness and the strength of the Lord.
Reflection: Gratitude - PG# 4909 (2005/2006)
by Mama Edie Armstrong
As we learn to thank God for the blessings of waking up in a safe, warm bed, of having family members to love and even to argue with, of receiving a check in the mail right when we need it most, of being able to walk without assistance, or to be blessed with assistance if we need it, to hear a favorite song that soothes us when we’re sad, and to see a magnificent sky show every day for free, our gratitude can fill any void. When we recall the severe difficulties of so many others, some of our challenges will seem too small to mention. For the miracles that have sustained us along the way, and for a personal relationship with God, we can rest easily in the memory of God’s unfailing love and be glad.
Reflection: Awareness - PG# 4911 (2005/2006)
by Mama Edie Armstrong
Many people embrace the concept of the “Third Eye.” And, of course, this is not a physical eye at all. It is instead that spirit part of us that allows us to see, to be aware of, and to appreciate the gifts that God has bestowed upon this world. It refers to the ability to see or be aware of the connections we have to the earth, to the animals, to each other, and most certainly to God. When we are aware of these connections and of the potential blessing we are to each other, we are less likely to choose war over compromise, recognizing that when we kill, some part of us dies, too. And when we hurt others or make someone else feel small, some part of us shrinks inside. But when we can see the beauty that is a part of all of us, we will nurture it, honor it, and use it well. And what better expression of appreciation for these gifts can we offer to God?
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