Dear Family and Friends,
It's hard to believe that the end of Lent draws near and Holy Week is upon us. It is amazing to think that Palm Sunday is almost here and our journey with Christ starting from Jerusalem and leading to his death and resurrection is about to begin.
Our two week "break" from classes began today. Since we didn't get a spring break, we are all very ready for a change of pace. Even though Holy Week won't really count as a break, I know we are all glad we don't have to attend classes for a while. I stood in the chapel this evening feeling very much at peace knowing we can just focus on services this week.
Lately, I really feel as if I've settled into life here. It's taken long enough, right? Not that I've been unsettled this whole time, but I think it's more that my heart is settling into my situation here and accepting things more. I love that winter is finally melting away and that flowers are starting to bloom and the wind is blowing. I've been noticing the birds chirping a lot lately - it's amazing how encouraging such a little thing is. Birds are always so cheerful and a reminder of God's provision. Ok, I know I'm being a little cheesy but seriously! I need to listen to their little songs more.
I've been reading through a book off and on during Lent for fun; although, there isn't a whole lot of time for "fun" reading it seems. The book is The Orthodox Way by His Grace Bishop Kallistos Ware. This book is very rich. It's hard for me to get through it fast, because I keep wanting to stop and write down quotes! Even though I've only made it through a couple chapters, it has given me a lot to ponder. So far, Bishop Ware has talked a lot about the heart and our relationship with Christ. How deeply personal our relationship with God is meant to be. It has caused me to think a lot about love; in particular, God's love for us and what that was intended to look like from the beginning of creation. He talks about how deep the heart is and how Christ dwells there.
I wanted to share one quote I recorded from the book. The quote is actually from Saint Symeon the New Theologian, but it was included in one of the chapters I read. I found it incredibly beautiful and deep. It talks about how Christ has broken through every barrier to live in our hearts. I don't think I reflect enough on the miracle that the creator and savior of the world lives within my heart. That is an unfathomable mystery. I hope this quote gives you something to ponder as we move toward the celebration of Christ's resurrection.
"I know that the immovable comes down;
I know that the invisible appears to me;
I know that he who is far outside the whole creation
Takes me within himself and hides me in his arms,
And then I find myself outside the whole world.
I, a frail, small mortal in the world,
Behold the creator of the world, all of him within myself;
And I know that I shall not die, for I am within the Life,
I have the whole of Life springing up as a fountain within me.
He is in my heart, He is in heaven:
Both there and here he shows himself to me with equal glory."
Love, love, love you all!
P.s. Some mission opportunities for the summer and possibly after graduation have come up recently. I would greatly appreciate your prayers for discernment, guidance, and provision. :)
