Autumn

Buenas tardes hermanas y hermanos;

It was unseasonably warm this morning as I took Frijolito on our customary walk. Although it is the end of October, the air was filled with flying insects of all types. And here and there were heard the sounds of solitary crickets, not wanting to release their hold on the last vestiges of summer. As we walked the path that bisects the wild meadow, it was clear that nature is readying itself for a long winter's slumber. The leaves on the deciduous trees were raining down on us, floating gently in the breeze, like Monarch butterflies.We saw several squirrels scurrying about foraging for food. It is comforting to try to imagine their winter's hideaway, deep inside a tree. The tales of Beatrix Potter come to mind, where the animals of the forest talk and live in harmony. As we neared the end of the path, a rather large murder of crows flew overhead, making as much noise as possible. It was music to my ears. There must have been at least 500 crows. They come to Dunblane once the crops are harvested, hoping to glean a kernel of corn or two. Crows are highly intelligent and curious creatures, with feathers so black and lovely that they almost look purple when the sunshine hits them at a certain angle. The white fluff from the burst milkweed pods was being carried upwards by the breeze, looking like light snow. A portent of things to come. I love the way the wild meadow transforms from season to season. Like Vivaldi's Four Seasons, each is unique and stunningly beautiful. Each represents the magnificence of God's creation. 

On the way back to the farmhouse Frijolito suddenly pulled to the left with all of his might and he led us into the outdoor grotto which sits beneath a cluster of sugar maple trees in full autumnal colours. The grass was carpeted by yellow, orange, and red leaves. It was indeed an intricate tapestry. And the sweet smell of decaying leaves filled the air, not unlike incense in a great Gothic cathedral. And as I closed my eyes, the Holy Spirit swept into the grotto and filled me with joy and hope. 
And I prayed. 

I prayed for our little reflection group.
I prayed for our beautiful but fractured world. 
I prayed for mother earth, whom we have treated with disrespect. 
I prayed for the homeless who are facing the onslaught of winter. 
I prayed.
I prayed. 
I prayed. 

And I thought about 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18. 
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, giving thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

And like a corny Hallmark movie moment, I caught sight of a maple leaf on its way down to join the thousands of other maple leafs on the ground, and I caught it in my hand. It will not be long before we at Dunblane are catching snowflakes on our tongues.  

I love Autumn 
I love Winter
I love Spring
I love Summer
I love you
God loves you. 

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. 

Your homework is to go outside and be still. You will be amazed by what you find in the stillness. 

Let us pray 

Loving and gracious God, creator of heaven and earth. In the quiet stillness may we hear You speak to us. In Your loving care , may we be restored. 

Amen. 

P.S. The stillness is filled with joyful noise. 

Que Diosito me los colme de bendiciones y alegría hoy y siempre.

Paz y amor 

I love you 

John 
God bless our little reflection group.

If you have any special prayer requests, please send me an email.