“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:23 -30 The Message
Yesterday the grassy banks of Central Parks north woods welcomed me.
I accepted an invitation for a walk among the trees. Water loving ginkgoes, red maples, and sweet gums bowed low to greet me. And a sweeping weeping willow sung my name. I heard it above the noise of the city. And lingered long to enjoy it among the peaceful sounds of the woodlands. Her mournful, haunting melody followed me through the ravine, granting me permission to cry.
I did.
Everything was big and beautiful or small, important and full of wonder.
The earth gave under my feet, absorbing the weight of my body. Accepting my presence as part of the landscape she offered handfuls of life-giving sustenance when I pulled. And I remembered my belonging to this earth. Through lug sole boots, I felt a soul connection, sure and true – grounding me in Gods creation.
Rustic trails led to a wildflower meadow quickened with birdsong. Dramatic boulders of the cascade herald a hush. Without a sign or word I know the only right response is silence…rustling leaves mimicked the sound of rain. Every where I turned. God glory. Warmed by his sisters colorful gloves, my teenage son offered a bouquet of quickweed and I stop to weave a crown of the tiny white flowers. Two hours have passed when I realize the park had done a Narnia like number on me. I’d walked through the wardrobe.
I’m not lost but something tells me I’m finding my way home.
We nosh on thick slices of country bread and cheddar cheese to fill our bellies and nibble other edible plants and roots we find along the way. Heart-healthy hawthorne berries. The dark flat leaves of lambs quarters, dandelion and bitter burdock. My belly is full but more than that I’ve feasted on a smorgasbord of grace. I’m satisfied.
A walk along the water’s edge takes us back to the hawthorne bush. It’s there we met and there the magic began. Just steps from civilization, but a world away.
Let your handmaiden find grace in your sight…#GiveMeGrace
