Provision

The days and nights had been filled with activities. Setting up a new house was daunting to say the least. Unpacking was time consuming--and painful. By the end of the day every bone in her body screamed for relief. Her joints burned as pain radiated through them into every part of her body. Taking a break, she moved into a chair to rest. She elevated her feet and reclined, trying to find one spot where she didn't hurt--an impossible task.

Seeing a lap become available the cat joined her. Sensing her pain and discomfort, he circled several times before gently lowering himself onto her lap. She moaned and he moved slightly. His brother came and joined him--settling himself on her chest and arms.

Their combined weight cloaked her like a warm blanket. In their contentment a soft vibrating purr radiated from them like warmth from a sauna--subtly, slowing infusing their gentle weight, warmth, vibration and sound into a blanket of love--a living symbol of care. She began to relax.

Later she opened her eyes--realizing that she had fallen asleep. The cats had slightly repositioned themselves. Yet each was still enveloping her with their subtle comfort. As she carefully moved them she realized that the aches and pains had receded. She still hurt, but the pain was more subtle rather than the raw throb of misery. Thank God for the warming love of her animals.

Our relationship with God is often that way as well. We run about--working, doing what we think we are supposed to be doing--until we find ourselves exhausted, overwhelmed, and often, filled with pain. In weariness and defeat we collapse. God subtly surrounds us, holds us, warms us, and whispers sweet words in our ears and minds. Slowly--ever so slowly--God love, care, concern, and compassion fills us with love. We open our eyes; time has passed; the ache has receded; we find ourselves able to continue.

Patient, enveloping, comforting God we seek comfort, answers, quick fixes in the frantic pace of our lives. You are always there--waiting patiently to infuse us with your love and care. Help us to slow down and acknowledge your presence which is always with us. Teach us to appreciate the subtleties of your care and provision for us. Teach us, o God, to seek your ways. Open our eyes to your provision. So be it. Amen.