I was listening to my prayer podcast and 'behold a little cloud like man's hand is rising up from the sea..'1 Kings 18:41-45 was the text that came into view quite literally-the cloud isn't hand shaped but I loved the fact that right here in front of me a cloud quite ordinarily was within my eyeline in a generally cloudless sky.
We are hurtling towards the culmination of our period of Lent. As per usual I've been pretty rubbish at adhering to taking time out for spiritual refreshment as a huge spanner was thrown into my ordinary working life. Changes affecting my workplace have made me confront the reality of adapting my lifestyle and into contemplating retirement. As luck would have it some funding has been found and not all of us tutors are out of work, in short we have some hope of working a bit longer and not being forced to retire too early.
The little cloud that came into view was not negative, in fact it reminded me of God omnipresent . For me today the cloud was gently resting, floating along just there waiting to be noticed and with a stillness and a rather comforting presence.
Today I'm on chaplain duty at Peterborough Cathedral, it's the first one of the year for the volunteer chaplains and I'm pretty excited. Tasked with lurking with pastoral intent we walk, look, listen and often be quiet with others as we become aware of their needs. I'll try and be a bit like that cloud, not an oppressive person in a black cassock with a badge, but with the intention of hope and the sharing of His love for all.
Peace be with you friends.
Caroline:) <><
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