Nourishment for the Soul …

Most mornings, I walk to the trails near my house shortly after the sun comes up. It’s very quiet at that time of day.  A few runners and an occasional biker share the path with us early walkers. Usually, I’ll spot a deer or two. Almost always I’ll see a heron. They stand so still and quietly, just waiting. Even though they are always around, I’ve never seen one catch a fish.  Come to think of it, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anyone catch a fish in the ponds along the trail.

The heron and the fisherman remind me that the means don’t always need an end. Most of our lives are spent in the means, really. The end goals are just a stopping point, after a long process—and too often we focus on the end, not the getting there. I’m sure the heron catches a fish, even though I’ve not see it, but he seems to enjoy basking in the quiet of morning, as does the fisherman. 

As I look around Peace Church on Sundays, with people on chairs and in the zoom windows, I am happy being where we are. But I’m not worried about where we are going. I just know I want to help sustain these Sundays, which are like my walks. I enjoy listening to Holly and Paula and the beautiful music.  It nourishes my soul.      

Holy one, help us nourish our earth & all its creatures, as well as our friendships and our church.

Judy is a Founding Member of Peace Church, and she will be pondering her pledge for this year’s Stewardship Campaign during her morning walks.