2Cor 4:7-15; Psalm 126:1-6; Matthew 20:20-28

given freedom
we rejoice
as though
dreaming
having sown
and toiled
in tears
we are filled
with laughter
and joy
for though
afflicted
perplexed
persecuted
and struck down
we have not
been constrained
abandoned
destroyed
or left in despair
we are raised up
by the God
who raised him
our treasure
found
in these
earthen vessels

Have you found freedom?
Where?

Exodus 14:5-18; Ex 15:1-6; Matthew 12:38-42

demanding signs
we show
our unfaithfulness
to love
not believing
its ever-presence
in our lives
until the voice
of the transcendent
appears
among us
calling us
to turn
our lives around
and hear
and see
what is
and has always been
among us

What signs of love do you seek?

Wisdom 12:13,16-19; Psalm 86:5-6,9-10,15-16; Romans 8:26-27; Matthew 13:24-43

weeds and wheat
growing within
what harvest
may come
and save
what is good?

a Spirit
that searches
our hearts
knowing the intent
of God’s will for love

a justice
that knows
we must be kind
for power to be shown

a faith
the size
of a mustard seed
that grows into
the tree of life

all answered by wisdom’s grace

Feast of Mary Magdalene

2Cor 5:14-17; Psalm 63:2-9; John 20:11-18

hearing God
call our name
we remember
and recognize
who we are
made from Goodness
made for Goodness
the love of Christ
impels us
what we have longed for
is here
our help
and our joy
our soul clings fast
to what is revealed
while we live
and grow
in the freedom
of God’s word

Do you hear God call your name?
How do you respond?

Exodus 11:10-12:14; Psalm 116:12-18; Matthew 12:1-8

desiring
mercy
not sacrifice
we are lead
to act
with freedom
from God’s
unconditional love
giving food
shelter
comfort
forgiveness
and kindness
offering
ourselves
to what is needed

How do you respond to the need for mercy in the world?

Exodus 3:13-20; Psalm 105:1, 5,8-9,24-27; Matthew 11:28-30

with a promise
of rest
from our burdens
we are yoked
with one
who knows
where peace resides
deeper
than the world
can offer
a love
beyond
conditions
and judgement
a love
deep within
that says
“I Am”

Where does your love reside?
How do live out this love?

Exodus 3:1-12; Psalm 103:1-7; Matthew 11:25-27

with
child-like
wonder
and awe
we see you
as your light
reveals
God’s splendor
to us
hidden
in every
being
and leaf
and grain
of sand
shimmering
with a love
we cannot
refuse
to accept
or give

Do you see with child-like wonder?
Do you experience God’s kindness and mercy?

Exodus 2:1-15; Psalm 69: 3,14,30-34; Matthew 11:20-24

resisting
warning
prophecy
and woe
we persist
in our ways
devoid
of moral compass
lost
and running
until God
in infinite mercy
and grace
reveals
an irresistible love
that changes
everything

Have you been touched by God’s irresistible love?
How has that changed you?

Matthew 10:34-11:1

God’s love
above all
our guide
no ritual
or ceremony
can take the place
of His justice
His love of all
in care
and compassion
giving
and forgiving
of one another
in grateful
praise

How do you experience God’s love in your life?

Isaiah 55:10-11; Psalm 65:10-14; Romans 8:18-23; Matthew 13:1-23

seed sown
seeking rich soil
where they
will not be snatched
scorched
or choked
by the harshness
of the world

so it is
as God’s word
seeks the rich soil
of our hearts
for deep rootedness
where all the fruits
of God’s goodness
can grow

Is your heart prepared for God’s word?