Held Together

It’s been too long since my last Beauty Break. Oh, but I’ve noticed the beauty around me. It’s more essential now than ever.

Maybe because I’m older, and hopefully wiser. Maybe because of what’s happening in the world, or because I’m more aware of the pain and suffering of others. Whatever the reason, I know I must notice beauty.

I’ve told those closest to me that I feel like I’m turned inside out, and it hurts. Beauty helps it not hurt as much.

So, when I see the apples hanging from the tree my dad planted, or hear Storehouse by the Gray Havens or read the story behind the hymn, O Love That Will Not Let Me Go. When I laugh with a friend, enjoy fellowship and prayer with a zoom study group, or read a poem or passage in a book that puts into words what I’ve been unable to…..I pay attention. And I take it in.

This poem came into my inbox at just the right time. Thank you for the beauty and the reminder, Malcom Guite.

I may be turned inside out, but I’m held together and God won’t let me go.

Held Together and Re-membered

The night withdrew and joy came in the morning,
When I remembered that I was remembered,
That even through the bitter tears of mourning

I was sustained, the darkest powers were hindered
In their insidious work within my soul
And I was held together and re-membered

By your unceasing love. You made me whole
When all the world was tearing me apart.
When there was fear on every side, you stole

Into the secret garden of my heart
A good thief in the night, and hid with me
In your strong tabernacle, held apart

From all that strife of tongues, cacophony
Of condemnations, so you kept me safe
In your deep silence and your mystery.

Malcom Guite, Held Together and Re-Membered: a response to Psalm 31

Thank you for showing us the wonders of Your love, Father.