June 22, 2020

Daily Lectionary Readings for Year A

I want to send out my reflection for June 22 now, the evening of June 21.  Immediately following worship and virtual coffee hour, I received word that my Aunt Lois had passed away.  I drove to my parent's house to let my Mom and Dad know personally.  Lois was my mom's oldest sister and last living sibling.  She lived in San Diego.  Her son Brent was with her throughout the night.  Even though you know death is coming, it is still difficult to bear when the news of death arrives.  

This afternoon we shared tears and memories.  We sat in silence with the reality of death and then entered into the healing balm of life stories.  I am thankful for my Aunt Lois.  She was a friend as well as a sister to my mom.  She was present in our lives.  She laughed and loved, even through the pain of life.

When I returned home I read the lectionary text for tomorrow.  God seems to give us hope through the Word when we are most in need.  My heart was drawn to the last sentence in the Revelation reading: "To everyone who conquers, I will give permission to eat from the tree of life that is in the paradise of God."  A return back to the Garden of Eden.  Our end is our beginning when there is finally a deeper understanding of the "what", "why", and "how."  I am strengthened knowing that my Aunt Lois's eyes are clearer and stronger and able to see what was previously unseeable.  

I am also strengthened by your prayers for my Mom and Dad.  I know that your love will help them in this time of grieving.  Thank you for the comfort your hearts provide.

Peace,
Dean