by Joe Naumann
Jesus told us to go forth and spread the Good News – He expects us to let our “light” shine for all to see. We must “shine” wherever and whenever we can to the ability we can at that time and place.
Reflection:
Walking across the lawn at a retreat house in Belize in 2006, I just happened to look down and nestled in the grass was a beautiful flower about a half-inch in diameter. It looked like a miniature hibiscus. It was so beautiful, it took my breath away. There were bigger flowers all around; however, this tiny one touched my heart and made me think of what a miracle God created in this little, easily overlooked flower.
The next time I walked across the lawn, I looked more closely and saw another tiny flower of about the same size — this was “fluffy” and delicate, somewhat like a mimosa bloom. Another tiny miracle had been revealed to me.
Sometimes it is the tiny lights of God’s love that touch us most deeply.
While walking through the rainforest was a powerful experience, a dream come true, my fondest memories from Belize are of finding the two tiny flowers.
I guess I identify more with the little ones. If it’s God’s will that I remain a little flower in His Mysterious “lawn,” I’m very comfortable with that. Even a small event can be just what someone needs at a particular point in his or her journey.
Lord, use me and draw me closer to You, that I may be a tiny flower for someone if it be Your will.
About the author: Joe Naumann
Joe Naumann has been a member of St. Stephen’s and the Vine for more than 20 years. He is a retired high school and college teacher and describes himself as a progressive Christian. Joe spent the majority of his life as a member of the Catholic Church, but now appreciates the “freedom” of The Episcopal Church. “No matter what my opinion was, nobody put me down,” Joe said.
Joe lives in Florissant and is the author of the book Prayers, Poems, and Ponderings, along with several articles. He has a passion for theology and thrives on sharing that passion with others.
