Get up and eat

I've learned to trust (and even enjoy) the times that I awaken in the mid-morning hours. Especially when I have a fairly open schedule, free from evening meetings (which usually relate to church boards or committees) I follow the nudge and come to my writing space.

Light a candle.... sip some tea.... and accept the gift of midmorning prayer.

After some time of soaking in God's presence, I decided to look at the lessons for this week.... I smiled to see that the Old Testament lesson is about one of my favorite prophets, Elijah. There he is, sleeping under the broom tree...and he gets nudged by an angel who says, get up and eat! I have nourishment for you...and you will need it for the rest of the journey.

If I cling to the fear that I will not be able to face my schedule unless I sleep for a couple more hours, I become wrapped up in the chords of what I think I need most to be equipped for the day. Sometimes prayer...especially the prayer that emerges in these early hours...provides refreshment and renewal that runs deeper than sleep. These early hours of prayer provide insight, perspective, and the kind of awareness that escapes me when I am more engaged with the practical aspects of doing.

I haven't done anything yet today....but I have been nourished in the spaces and places that underly my existence.

I have spent two hours savoring the taste of God's words this morning. I have experienced the tender touch of Love that assures me that showing up for prayer this morning has prepared me in some way for whatever the day brings.

Thank you my Lord...I love you!