Stopping to watch what Jesus does

In the mountains of northern Georgia, I stop. So I can watch what Jesus does. 

The phrase “watch what Jesus does” is from a Richard Rohr quote that I read yesterday morning from a daily reflection I read on my mobile device called inward Outward. This little devotional comes by email and is one of the two that are part of my morning quiet. I also read a thought for the day from the Iona Community and the Forward Day by Day which has a convenient link to the Daily Office. 
Because I can read these holy words on my phone or tablet, this morning practice can travel with me wherever I go. 
Today it is a screened porch on. a green mountain ridge. 

Yesterday it was a table in a cafe in Atlanta. 
The day before that it was waiting for the plane in Houston. 
Having filled my heart, spirit and soul with words by people holier and wiser than me, I pray that I can more naturally make part of the the rhythm of the day to be Jesus for others and to see Jesus in others.  I’m watching. 

Watch what Jesus does

Up early before the worst heat hits to walk to breakfast at Cafe Jonah. 

Plotting the way on our iPhones, my friend and I realized the cafe was a five minute drive but only a fifteen minute walk.  Why do I automatically drive without thinking about walking as an option?  Jesus was quite a walker, after all. 
Twists and turns and three thousand steps and we were there. 

My prayer during this vacation has been to do as Jesus does. I’m not pleased with how often I can get irritated by others. I’ve been in a lot of crowds and lines–at the game, waiting for and riding on Marta, at the movie, and the like. My quotidian–self without a collar (and sometimes with) can be so cranky. 
My prayer has been to be patient and kind and delight in the people God puts in my path. Sometime I say yes. Sometimes I have to say forgive me. 
Walking back to the hotel, a man pushing a baby buggy with his life possessions responded to my greeting with, “Beautiful smile.”  Oh yes. Thanks, God. 
Too many steps to walk to the mountains, we’re on our way by car for more beauty. Everyday. 

Occupying unoccupied time

At the Marta Station waiting for the Gold Line after the Atlanta Dream game. A happy final for Tulsa. It’s 10.30 PM after a large day. 

First twenty four hours of vacation has been all about doing the local. 
Three potters. Two local coffee roasters.   Three local eateries. One kiddie cup of ice cream. A water station that included free sparkling water as an option. 
Two movies. One museum. Lots of laughter. 
Yesterday and this morning in Athens. 
This afternoon and evening in Atlanta. 
Tomorrow to the mountains. 
So very many courteous folks abound. Offering seats on trains and other public spaces. Opening doors. Providing kind directions.   
But first I have to catch two more trains and walk to the hotel.   

The Lord Almighty grant a peaceful night and a perfect end. 

Vacation: To be unoccupied

For the next seven days I am a vacationer.   I am unoccupied.  I am on an extended period of recreation. 

Starting with uneventful travel this morning to the airport and now seated in an exit row all to myself. 
Work to do list complete. 
Pastoral phone calls and texts done. 
Katie+ and the fabulous St. Mary’s folks tending God’s people.
Plants watered. Dishes done. 
Inspired by Katie’s+ sermon yesterday, I am off to be a disciple in unknown and unexpected places. I do have a change of clothes and money in my wallet, but I’m ready to see where God, my tour guide, takes me. 

O God, whose glory fills the whole creation, and whose presence we find wherever we go: Preserve those who travel; surround them with your loving care; protect them from every danger; and bring them in safety to their journey’s end; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.