Time
Walking along the waterfront to the end of Oriental Bay is just one of the delights of living here in Thorndon. Yes, there are the stunning views of the harbour, the sun rising in the East, the activities on the water, the city buildings, and the wonderful range of humanity; walking, running, cycling, laughing, listening to ear pods, chatting to companions, heading to work, to school, to look around our beautiful city.
At times when walking I have a goal in mind, maybe to go a certain distance, or to keep to a certain schedule. Then before me is a bench seat, looking over the water, and it’s as though Jesus says, “Hey, how about some time here, just sitting with me.” A beautiful invitation to spend time with the Lord, as we hear in the scriptures today.
God remains with Abraham and listens to his concerns with reassuring response. Jesus responds to his disciples’ request with different scenarios for prayer. The gift of the Lord’s Prayer, the encouragement to continually place our needs in prayer, and to pray for the Spirit, and the Spirit’s gifts and fruits. Having time in prayer, even a few minutes sitting on a seat overlooking the harbour amid a morning walk can open us to the possibilities to which Jesus is inviting us.
This weekend the Church remembers the grandparents of Jesus, Anne and Joachim. While away, I have noticed the many times I have seen children and young people in the presence of their grandparents. There is so often a clear loving bond. There seems to be delight in the time being given to each other. Not expected, as possibly in the parent/child relationship, rather freely given and received.
We pray in thanks for grandparents, and for all who mentor those younger than themselves. We are grateful for wisdom shared. I loved, as a child, sitting beside Grandma on a bench seat on Oriental Parade as we both looked out over the harbour, silently.
With prayers, patrick
