GOD LIVES HERE

TODAY: Find a picture of Michelangelo’s great sculpture, Pieta. Study the look on Mary's face as she looks at her son. What do you feel as you look at Mary? What was she thinking? What would you tell her?

When I was a little girl, I went to a Catholic church, a cathedral really. I was told that the church was built to serve as the central church of the diocese; but the “powers that be” changed their minds. So our small city of Cortland, N.Y., had this amazing gothic cathedral near the center of town. Other denominations in town had fine churches as well; but ours definitely made a statement. To others it screamed OSTENTATIOUS! But for me, it was where God lived.

Mass was said in Latin, a graceful, poetic language that clings to its vowels, suspending itself in mid-air. Among the lofty openness of that pillared church, the sound echoed, embracing me with passion, peace and grace. I didn’t understand a word, but I knew God was there in that embrace, holding me, lifting me, loving me.

It was within this embrace that I learned to listen with my heart. I listened to the stained-glass windows and the voices of the “saints” in the choir loft. I listened to the statues and friezes and fountains and flowers. I listened to the incense and swaying vestments and the pinging of goblets, silver and gold. I listened to the prayers of the artists who created these things long before I was born and to the prayers of the great Creator who created them. And I prayed with them, with all my heart . . . .

A Gentle Authority
His eyes see all and reveal all.
His smile bears witness to my secrets
yet keeps them safe.
His laugh frees the pain held
captive within my soul.

His voice whispers truth so
only I can hear.
His hand caresses my heart.
His arms embrace, protecting my world
and me in it.

His heart forgives.
Amen

— Pauline Daniels

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist