On the Road Again ... Part 2

For those of you who have been following the travels of our "second Jesus" - he did indeed arrive back at the church safe and sound yesterday - when the Sudlersville Elementary School re-opened after the Christmas/New Year's break.  He was right where he should have been - on a counter in the school office, right under this wonderful painting of children.  As all of us keep saying, "he was right where he should be."  (scroll down to see the photo of Jesus' "visit" to SES -that's his black file box in the middle of the counter)

And while our "second Jesus"and his box are back at the church, I think all of us this season are much more aware of how Jesus isn't kept safely inside the church, but is always "out there" among us and with us, surprising us, inviting us, challenging us to follow.  May it always be so.

With the permission of the author, Tracey Marx and her website www.scriptureecho.com, I share this "Winter Blessing":

This winter, may you encounter Jesus in unexpected places.

In your office or home, in the midst of what seems like yet another interruption of important work, may your frustration turn abruptly into awareness that you are standing on holy ground.

In the sanctuary, when you are winter-worn, and unsure of what more you have to give, may your weariness nudge you to rely on God completely.

In yet another meeting or activity, when you are wondering why in the world you do what you do, may you shift your gaze and see what God sees, and may you be confirmed in your call and your response.

May the Spirit surprise you and delight you in these winter weeks. And may those divine, unexpected encounters give you the energy, enthusiasm, perspective and grace you need.

Amen. (From the January 6, 2013 edition of Lectionary Liturgy.)