I enjoyed a weekend plentiful in fellowship, an aspect of faith I am committed to pursuing. Saturday morning started events with a men’s prayer group, followed by a breakfast blessed with jovial conversation. Two county sheriffs were in attendance. Their welcome sense of humor I found agreeable and contagious. It is comforting to enjoy faith that does not take itself too seriously, nor fixated upon self-elevation. Intentional or unintentional, conversation overwhelmed by opinions—overly-critical and authoritative, the determination to be right, or overly obsessed with politics I find burdensome. There is a wisdom to light-heartedness, a humble and trusting approach, few are able to embrace during these troubling times, especially for those concentrating upon an advanced approach to faith. St John of the Cross writes: “Abide in peace, banish cares, take no account of all that happens, and you will serve God according to His good pleasure and rest in Him.” Sunday was dedicated to a picnic with a prayer group I have been acquainted with for some time. Pleasantly, intimacy and sharing matures. The food was excellent, conversation flowed, and the newly released ‘Fatima’ movie viewed. I am pleased with the grace of enjoying the company of others. Solitary throughout my life, I perceive on the natural level I am growing with the ability to easily and comfortably fit in with others. There is no struggle, insecurity, over-sensitive self-consciousness, nor arrogance—proper and orderly.

Lord, I am willing to be meek and mild,
in order to love You greater.
Lord, I am willing to appease wrath,
to dissipate the desire for righteousness,
in order to love You greater.
Lord, I am willing to be wrong,
willing to be mediocre,
in order to love You greater.
Lord, I am willing to be grateful rather than demanding,
in order to love You greater.