Eastertide

Hi Everyone,

I have spent the past couple of days just basking in the Easter light.  It feels good to have the misery of Holy Week in the rear view mirror.  We had a blast of winter from Sunday through Tuesday (yesterday), but today the sun is out, the azaleas are blooming, and it looks and feels more like Spring.  Yesterday, I had reason to visit the farm where my sweet horse lives to deliver a check for the farrier.  We made a real pair: I in my mask and gloves, both of us in our winter coats.  But it was a touch of Heaven just to see her raise her head from the hay pile in recognition of my voice and to run my hands over her dirty, shaggy coat.

My brief trip out into the world and my Easter mood got me reflecting on God's providence, even in times of trial.  Susan, who owns and manages the farm, was there to care for the animals, as she does through cold winter, blistering summer, and the random pandemic among us. The horseshoer, Daniel, was on his way to tend to hooves that have been bathed in mud for these few weeks.  The horses, being both lazy and playful, have been standing around eating until they look up and decide to run and kick and frolic across the pasture.  Several are now gimping around with pulled leg muscles. This is ordinary life at the farm, and it has rarely looked so beautiful.

The Scripture that best fits my experience is from James, 1:17:

Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. (NRSV)

I manage my days of isolation best when I focus on the givers - the many people, heroes actually, who are carrying out essential tasks with grace and generosity of spirit.  Like Mr. Rogers famously said, "Look for the helpers."  I would add, "Bless the helpers with your most extravagant gifts."