Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the word rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
-Psalm 105:1-4
It’s been a while since I noticed the way the wind feels on my skin, and felt the warmth of the sun kiss my freckled-face.
Thank you, God, for the gift of each day.
It’s been awhile since I listened to the birds’ morning song, their tweets and chirps of music dancing from tree to tree.
Thank you, God, for nature’s gifts.
It’s been awhile since I marveled at small, blue eggs, and watched a robin search for worms and return to three pecking beaks open wide for food.
Thank you, God, for the gift of new life.
It’s been a while since I studied the wild flowers scattered through the grass: white, purple, and red dotting the landscape.
Thank you, God, for vibrant color.
It’s been awhile since I dug in the dirt clearing the way for seeds and sprouts picturing the critters and nutrients nourishing the ground.
Thank you, God, for the ability to cultivate the earth.
It’s been a while since I sat and watched my children play, listening to their imaginations take flight.
Thank you, God, for family.
It’s been awhile since I connected with friends through laughter and stories for hours with no interruptions.
Thank you, God, for technology.
It’s been awhile since I smelled the aroma of chopped veggies simmering all afternoon.
Thank you, God, for food to share.
It’s been a while for me to remember your presence in my midst, but thankfully, you’ve been with me all along.
Keep my eyes open, Lord,
my heart ready to see your goodness,
and a soul willing to rest in you.
Amen.
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is an ordained ELCA pastor, mother of two, and spouse of an ELCA pastor. She lives with her family in Cole Camp, MO. You can read more at her website, follow her work on Facebook, or sign up for her monthly newsletter.