It is spring in our yard. The trees have leaves, Hosta plants are thriving, and the rhododendron is blossoming. The natural world is encouraging us to hope. I’m surprised each year to discover where new Hostas have begun to sprout. They have appeared some distance from the established plant, in a corner of the yard, nestled against a fence post, or at the edge of a path. Creation has within itself the purpose of growth and the energy to spread forth, proclaiming life in the most unlikely places. I suspect wind and rain spread the seeds. Water and wind remind us of God’s Spirit.
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Sometimes I transplant these young sprouts to locations we consider more visible in the garden. Other times, I leave them be and let them grow where creation has given them root.
We recently spent some blessed time with relatives we hadn’t seen for years. We gathered for a meal and shared the blessing of table, food, and the gracious gift of community. We reminisced and shared updates on the happenings in our lives, the generation before us, children, grandchildren, careers, retirements, current events, and more. It was a consolation and celebration of the life of family relationships.
As we have reflected on the Mother of the Lord during this month of May, it has been natural to recollect all the women who have shared their wisdom and inspired our growth during our formative years. We might be more mindful of how all of us, in some way, have contributed to the development of the young people whom we have guided, taught, or parented. Perhaps they learned from us simply by the witness of how we lived our lives.
Growing up, I remember so many people whose goodness gave me hope and shaped my vision. I believe the way we live is a powerful example that can encourage others to cultivate their lives. Young people can see within us when joy has taken root – how the wind and rain of life experiences have graced us through God’s Holy Spirit.
“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God.
May your kind spirit guide me on ground that is level.”
(Psalm 143:10)
As we anticipate Pentecost, let our family prayer ask the Mother of the Lord to help us be open to God’s Holy Spirit on all paths of our lives.