Clarion

“HOLY BEPUZZLEMENT” – Bill Thiessen

Jun 27, 2024 |

HOLY BEPUZZLEMENT

What is the alternative? I ponder.

Is it a matter of enduring the unknown?
Or resolving the puzzle by living it
As if it were a maze?
Labyrinth?
Not knowing the end?
The ultimate destination?
Do I follow another

Or do I forge my own path?
Is there a guide, or a map
For a spiritual journey?
Or do I just follow another?

However, I am determined
To forge my own path
One that is personal, enriching
I will attend social events which inspire
I will optimize my strength and desire

I am made in the image of my father
–and (unknown and known) mothers.
I bear the marks of a genetic code.
I have employed them In myriad contexts.

Beginning at home–on the farm
Near Venice (school)–honing basic skills
I was always motivated to duty
Obediently, I followed father’s example
Never did I stray–

I know I did not measure up
But I thrived on seeking to obey
Dutifully.

What do I do now?
How do I exercise life lessons?
Am I losing my mooring??

To do or not to do
As in “To be or not to be”

Bth April/24

Where 2 or 3 Gather – Covidtide Prayers 2/3 “House or Home?” – Brad Jersak

Mar 31, 2020 |

I asked my friend Paul E. Ralph to reflect on this idea with me—the possibility that oikos can help us think more clearly about what it means to “gather in his name,” especially as we’re quarantined in our homes.
Paul asked me to consider the emotional difference between a house and a home—and how that difference suggests renewed ways of being “church.” He began by asking how I might respond if he told me, “I’ve built an addition on my house.” I suppose I’d say, “That’s great, Paul. Another room for you to use, to fill, to clean. Good for you.” But then feel the difference of discovering that his household had just increased. “A new addition to the family! Wahoo! I can’t wait to meet her!”