Where are we among the happenings in the world?

By Sharon St Joan

We do not need to drown in the sorrows of the world – or be angry – or disconsolate.

We can take a walk in the woods.

At this time in our world, it may be possible, as always, to be aware of the universal transcendent presence of peace, beauty, grace, courage, dignity.

It may not be possible for us at this precise moment – if we have just experienced a personal tragedy – or witnessed the profound pain of others.

But, unless this is, for you, one of those profoundly tragic moments in life (though often even then) – then it is still possible today to be aware that – beyond the horrors of this world – beyond the blood-soaked terrors of the news on TV – beyond our own personal pain that may sometimes come by for an uninvited visit –– it may still be possible, no matter what feelings we are caught up in – to encounter a moment of profound transcendence – profound peace.

There may yet be a startling moment when we are aware of the Presence of God. These days, we are supposed to call God something else – the “Universe”, for example – as if God were embarrassed to be called God.

Mostly, we have a choice – if we prefer not to be bothered with God, that’s just fine. There are many other things we can read instead of this.

On the other hand, there are those among us who cannot avoid glimpsing the profound beauty of the universe. This vision comes upon us maybe unexpectedly – a glimpse of the splendor of the night sky or the grace of a deer running through the forest. Or the sense that we have never been without the Friend who has aways been there with us.

Especially in nature it is very hard to be unaware of the profound beauty all around us — the delicate lace of the tree branches. The glow of the petals of the sunset. The sound of the little stream rushing by.

It is hard not to sense the overwhelming power of eternity, of love, of the infinite – not to be aware of the intense presence of Grace.

So, when wild birds sing to you, when the snow sparkles in the arctic cold, when an invisible Presence walks with you – you are blessed. The ultimate reality is the presence of God.

© Copyright, Sharon St Joan, 2023