Dear God, let not my mind be cluttered today. My thoughts dart from point to point, from thought to thought, from fear to fear. I cry out for ease, yet it is my own rushing thought that blocks the way to peace.

Lord, drip slow sweet honey over my frantic mind. Still me.

Let the birds visit; I need not run after them.

(Letter #1439)

Dear God, let me find a spot in this land that I can tend to and improve for others.

In this forest with its twisting pathways, let me set myself to care for a forgotten corner. Let me, Lord, make it a welcoming and quiet garden, a protected oasis in a wilderness. Travelers on these paths may come upon my garden; let me give them rest and ease. This is its purpose.

Your sun shines down upon the forest canopy and sprinkles its light over all. Perhaps other visitors will make their own gardens.

Lord, let us, your children, play in the ease of this day.

(Letter #1438)

Dear God, let me better seek to remain an anonymous force. Let me quietly pass on your love, the good news, without fanfare and without grasping.

Let me wander from person to person, murmuring in their ear, telling of all the good things that are already here for the seeing. Let me gently point out the bounty that grows already in the fields and on the vines.

Lord, you guide me to make this the work of my life – let me joyfully turn my hands to this, my labor.

(Letter #1437)

Dear God, I proclaim myself as faithful, as one who seeks your will. But this moment of early devotion dissolves as soon as I rise from my morning seat. I walk through the day on my own march, acting upon my own pursuits.

When, Lord, have I ever denied myself in favor of your will? Or instead do I merely count myself as faithful simply because I make some small effort to have improved intentions?

God, let me labor for you. Let me gladly do what I do not wish to. Let me give you my full measure of effort.

(Letter #1436)