Inspiration in troubled times

“I do not busy myself with great matters,.... Rather I have stilled my soul….like a weaned child on it’s mother’s lap”  from Psalm 132

What are these “great matters” that trouble the mind?  Just within the last few days...

A UN report on climate change that says humanity is on “red alert”

The Taliban taking over in Afghanistan with lightning speed after the longest war the US has ever waged, 20 years of blood and suffering - spent treasure and lost lives.

An earthquake in the poorest country in this hemisphere with a death toll of over a thousand and rising.  

Migrants by the tens of thousands arriving at the Southern border and the turmoil and anguish of so many with raised hopes, and others with fear of this “invasion.”

Wildfires raging across the West resulting in scorched earth and lost homes for many.

The outcome of any of these great matters won’t be changed by my fretting and worry, but I do pray and watch from afar. And look for signs of hope.  I look for calm and the presence of the Spirit and inspiration. Yesterday was an inspirational day!

 I was inspired by the courage and compassion of Dr. Eva Mora from El Paso.  We listened to her talk at Las Placitas Presbyterian Church about the work she and many volunteers do to get help to the migrants arriving and waiting in shelters in Ciudad Juarez across the border.  It is a work we support through the “Dignity Mission” headed up by Jack and Cheryl Ferrell from that Church.  They had a vision that started with just a few “dignity kits” and now has channeled thousands of kits and tens of thousands of dollars worth of needed material aid to countless migrant families from Central America.  Those are families from villages I used to work with in Central America.  They have come to the wrenching decision to leave their homes and take a chance on getting safely to the US.  Many don’t make it, but others have hope because of Eva Mora and a network of supporters from around the country.. 

Eva Mora said we should not be dismayed and overwhelmed by the great need - but persevere. Wait for the prompting of the Spirit for your purpose and look not only at far away places but also to those neighbors closest to us.  

Another thing inspired us yesterday - words about wisdom and the Bread of Life from Pastor Christa, and a song I was not familiar with but found myself humming the rest of the day.  I found there are lots of You tube recordings.  I love this one by the Notre Dame folk choir.  It is inspiring to see young people sing like they really believe it!

I Am the Bread of Life - Toolan | Notre Dame Folk Choir