100 Words of Hope: Moments of Grace

Listen

listen • they’re in the silence scattered throughout the music moments of grace signaling a dynamic shift a change in tempo • they’re in the ocean’s sighs after it sends its waves crashing against the shore and in the hush that follows a summer storm • when prayers deferred and words unspoken are finally released – hesitantly humbly – they’re in the calm before the blessing • listen • when passion and purpose are reclaimed when the everyday becomes sacred • listen be still know • they’re moments of grace whispers of the Divine • listen

—Florence Niven, Edith Rankin Memorial United Church, Kingston, ON

Compare the Trees

Just look at the trees in the winter

So many shapes, so many heights

So many types of bark

So many intricate branches

So many straight branches

So many varieties

So different yet the same

God created nature

God created us

God is in control of both,

God’s beauty is in both,

God loves the beauty of each,

God loves all.

Just as God takes care of the trees,

We will be trimmed, nurtured and weather storms

As part of His plan, He is in control of all.

Trust, Faith and Acceptance, all is part of His plan.

So stand tall, seek God and accept His control.

—Anne Perkins, Southwood United Church, Calgary, AB

Pass It On

Grief turned into joy

Anger moved to action relaxation to inspiration ill health repaired birds coming back silent voices rising snowballs flying mountains shining babies crying all signs of hope

Silence restored

River otters returning tears glistening ears listening

Peaceful border crossings

Be still and know that I am God

Be still and remember the love of Jesus Christ

Love is patient Love is kind Love rejoices in the truth Bears all things Hopes all things Never fails When all else fails

REST This is not all up to you God is involved

She leads me to write words of Hope So I can feel it

Pssst…. pass it on

—Gail Birkett, Trinity United Church, Newmarket, ON

We encourage you to share your own "100 Words of Hope" (prayers, poems, or reflections).

The views contained within these blogs are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of The United Church of Canada.