One of my most amazing spiritual experiences occurred years ago when I was on an All Saints men’s retreat. It was at Bon Secour, just north of Columbia, MD. It is a beautiful, quiet place. A former monastery. There you can feel the presence of God in the gardens, in the quiet corners.

During a group discussion, Darlene Title, an All Saints Associate Priest, shared with us in passing that she had recently had a conversation with Jesus. She said it very matter of fact; it was no big deal. It occurred while she was alone in her room, sitting on her bed, and Jesus came to visit. He sat down beside her. She saw him, and talked with him. There was a moment of contemplative silence after this disclosure. Then our discussion went on with whatever weighty topic the group had been considering.

I never had an opportunity to speak with Darlene about her statement in any detail. But I did, and still do, think about that visit that she shared. At some point I said to myself that I must decide whether I believe what she said, or just forget about it. I decided that I believed her, because she is such a spiritual person, so thoughtful, loving and inspiring – I know she would be someone whom Jesus would visit.

I am reminded of this after reading Psalm 29, which describes the experience of humankind with the presence of God. Psalm 29 is known as “The Psalm of the Seven Thunders.” In the thunder, God’s voice is there for us. The thunder is powerful, full of majesty. It breaks the cedars, flashes forth flames of fire, shakes the wilderness, and strips the forest bare.

After the descriptions of the presence of God in the thunder, we are told in the Psalm why the Lord will come. The Psalm concludes: “The Lord will give strength to his people; the Lord will give his people the blessing of peace.”

God bless you!

Ed