Rooted and Growing

We are deep into ordinary time...which really isn’t so ordinary after all. 
It’s the time for the Paschal Mystery, the mystery of his and our dying and rising rhythm to get strong roots and put out green growth that shows.So what are we looking for? We’re looking for ways to protect our Easter gift of peace. It’s the peace the world can’t give...his kind of peace. But isn’t this like a willow the wisp, daily escaping through our fingers like water? A pipe dream? I no longer think so.Bad things happen. We aren’t going to escape them, and we are wasting our energy if we are trying to so control our lives to try to do so. 

How do we meet these ups and downs in his peace? I’ve come to think of these down times like manure. Awful stuff. We don’t keep it in the kitchen. But out in the garden and spread properly, this awful stuff grows marvelous things. Now, no matter how we try, this awful stuff remains awful stuff. We aren’t being Pollyanna here. But this comparison has proven very helpful to me.It all started with a scripture quote: “Rejoice always; pray continuously; give thanks in all situations, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5: 17-18) 

At first read, I thought, “You have got to be kidding!” But Paul isn’t fooling around. Then I gave it a try. The results shocked me.First I had to figure out why I should “Rejoice always.” Then it dawned on me that by Jesus’ resurrection I had been given ultimate security. There is no better ultimate insurance plan. My ultimate future has been taken care of. That put a quiet little knowing grin on my soul. I really DID have a reason to “Rejoice always.” Then this “pray continuously” thing. After all, we do have to do the laundry and a few other things! But lovers know all about this. While they drive, while they vacuum, there is this little background awareness of that one-I-love. It’s a little like that. 
This kind of prayer is like back-ground music to my activity. 

Finally, there was the kicker. “Give thanks in all situations?” Even when the manure odor is unmistakable? Right on. When I quietly said, “Thank you...” and trusted it had a purpose, lo and behold! It held my soul in quiet peace, even when all hell broke loose around me. So, I dare you. Check it out for yourself. It’s really today’s paschal mystery custom designed for your little life....rooted and growing.

 First you fill me with heavenly assurance. 

Then you clothe me in your kind of peace. 

Then you tune me in to your theme song “always with you...”

 And then I learn to trust even in the stinky stuff. 

Because nothing escapes your plan. 

Thank you for what you have rooted and are growing in me, Jesus.