June 6, 2022
“You will show me the path that leads to life; your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.” ~ Psalm 16:11 GNT
On a recent retreat I had the opportunity to do a lot of walking, taking my time to enjoy winding narrow country roads along the Shenandoah River near Berryville, VA. I didn’t have any goal, or distance, or speed in mind. My only objective, aside from not getting run over by the occasional cars and trucks that passed, was to be attentive to the Spirit. I stopped often, to listen to birds, to smell honeysuckle and roses and fresh mown hay, to see the variety and beauty of the little slice of creation I was privileged to pass. I managed (mostly) to quiet the internal chatter.
On the last morning of the retreat, I was up early to see the sunrise and take one last walk. Another retreatant passed me when I stopped to take some photos. He was returning to the retreat house as I was still heading away from it. Just before we passed each other, he made a “take a picture” gesture and pointed behind me. I turned in time to see the sun shining, lighting the path ahead. This is what I saw:
I’ve walked many paths in my life, gotten lost literally and figuratively before finding my way again. There have been ups and downs, many rough surfaces, a fair share of dangerous curves, and crossroads. In looking back, I often see that God’s presence and providence have been with me. Sometimes it takes another to slow me down enough to see the light of God where I have been.
Show us the path that leads to life. ~ Anne
Wayfinding 