Gardening Angels10/2/2019 Memorial of the Guardian Angels
“Unless you turn and become like little children, you can not enter into the kingdom of God.” Is Jesus inviting us to be more playful and not take ourselves too seriously? “ Whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of God.” Is Jesus inviting us to just be ourselves, nothing more, nothing less? Praying with the theme of “guardian angels, I found myself thinking about the idea of there being a being who is tasked with watching over us. Do you remember the prayer you learned as a child? Angel of God, my guardian dear, To whom God’s love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, To light and guard, To rule and guide. Amen. Praying soon became playing when the idea of “gardening angels” came into mind. Traditionally we think of guardian angels as keeping us out of trouble, watching over us, protecting us from harm. (Some guardian angels are better at that than others!) Today, I’m thinking of “gardening angels.” They are the people in our lives who help us to flourish through their encouragement, support and love. They may be people living or deceased but you know that they are there for you in all circumstances. These “gardening angels” help you to believe in yourself and affirm that your life makes a difference. They help you to know that your life is “wonder-filled.” In light of these “gardening angels” the photos I’ve chosen today are flowers in the garden that have been at my side, “lighting and guiding” since they began to flourish in springtime. They keep reminding me of how wonderful life can be when you recognize the beauty that is all around us and within us. Speaking of a “wonderful life,” my favorite guardian angel is Clarence from “It’s a Wonderful Life.” As I’m sure you know, Clarence is George Bailey’s guardian angel who helps him to see what a difference his life has made when George is close to despair. Clarence lets George see how the world would be a much darker and sadder place if he hadn’t lived. Clarence gives George “clearance” to accept his life as gift and live its wonders every day. From praying to playing? Do you remember the film, Airplane? I thought of it this morning as I thought of Clarence. One of the funniest scenes is when the pilots are getting ready for take off. Clearance/Clarence/ Roger/Roger/ Vector/Victor. I hope you find this as delightful as I did! https://youtu.be/MQ9iPTu_FMA
2 Comments
Ann
10/2/2019 09:08:27 pm
An invitation to be playful sounds really good to me right about now. Lots of stuff in the world makes it hard to be exuberant and as playful as children. When I think of Guardian Angels, I remember how protected I felt as a child. Your reflection is a great reminder. Flowers are beautiful as well, great companions to have on any journey.
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Santiago
10/3/2019 10:32:28 am
Ángel de mi guarda, dulce compañía, no me dejes solo, que me perdería (y vendría el lobo y me comería)
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Leave a Reply.AuthorAs an ordained Catholic priest for 45 years and a member of the Jesuits for 57 years, I've had a great deal of "spiritual" experience! This is a place where I can continue to share my thoughts about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and what it means to live the "mystery of God." Categories |