Religion

We were all huddled in the downstairs bedroom, a storm was brewing. At that moment I felt suction from the east window which was partially opened. I knew this must be it — a tornado for real. In an instant, it was all over.

Jacob left Beer-sheba and went toward Haran. He came to a certain place and stayed there for the night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place. And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.

This week’s lectionary readings include the Genesis story of God asking Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Even though we know that (apparently) God was only testing Abraham, and we know that God stopped the killing, the incident seems cruel. I know of no other Biblical tale that could so terrorize a person!

“Oh thank you — they are beautiful,” I said gazing at the six bright red roses, now setting on the kitchen table.

I awoke and glanced around the room. The soft purple nightlight glowed over the sleeping children. We were in Maryland staying at the home of the Imran Razvi family, where we had come to spend a couple days to learn more about caring for little hearts who have gone through adoption.

“Children, team up!”

Last month a neighbor gave me a flat of marigolds. She knew I wanted them for my flower garden. I was recuperating from a total right hip replacement and my friend, Susan, was flying in from Sarasota, Florida, to help me out. While visiting, Susan planted the marigolds and vincas in my patio plot. As the week progressed, I was able to get around better and be outside on the patio enjoying conversations over meals and those beautiful newly planted flowers. These are ordinary pleasures.

Well, once again it’s that time of the year of celebrating academic accomplishments. Graduations are major milestones that close the door to one chapter, while opening the door to a new chapter. Oftentimes, starting new chapters is met with much apprehension and anxiety.

By gwyn stetler

Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, cats are dumped in Amish country often. So strays are a part of daily life and most Amish do the best they can to care for them, which can include spaying and neutering and taking them in when they can.