I admit it was hard at first to write about what I’m grateful for during this pandemic. Being a priest, I encourage others to live lives of gratitude and abundance. But that doesn’t mean that I think - or say - that it’s easy to do.
I won’t review the sources of anxiety, loss, and challenge we are all experiencing in various ways during this time. Their name is “Legion.” Added to this for me, have been other sources of pain and stress, that I don’t need to describe here. (Raise your hand if you have your own!)
And yet - and yet - I am grateful.
As a rector, I’m grateful to God for the leaders who stepped up to the plate to care for each other, learn new technologies, and creatively bring Christ’s love to our community.
I’m grateful for the folks who show up at Zoom vestry meetings, discussion groups, and Bible studies.
I’m grateful for those who volunteer every day to feed the hungry, and those who phone members who are sick or homebound.
I’m grateful for interfaith colleagues who get together on Zoom to pray in each of their traditions, yet always in the spirit of unity.
I’m grateful for first responders and essential workers.
Finally I’m grateful for the never-ending beauty and inspiration of the world God has given into our care. To simply sit at a window with a cup of tea and enjoy the splendor of each season.
Actually, I could think of many more
