Praying with 'On a Summer Day' by Mary Oliver

Helps to pray in a time of pandemic by Sister Winnie Morley rc Who made the world? who made the swan, and the black bear? Who made the grasshopper? This grasshopper, I mean – The one who has flung herself out of the grass, The one who is eating sugar out of my hand, Who is moving her jaws back and forth instead Of up and down – Who is gazing around with her enormous and Complicated eyes. Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly Washes her face. Now she snaps her wings open, & floats away. I don’t know exactly what a prayer is. I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass, How to be idle & blessed, how to stroll through The fields, Which is what I have been doing all day. Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn’t everything die at last, and all too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do With your one wild and precious life? I invite you to find a quiet space and gently begin to unwind and relax. Place yourself in God’s presence and ask to know God’s dwelling in your heart. Read the passage slowly, maybe a few times, let the words hold you, speak to you. In these strange times what is your hope?  We see signs of new life, colour returning, birds singing in the natural world, so what do you hope for; dream of; wish for?  How is this time of isolation, solitude speaking to you right now? What are your fears, hopes anxieties, worries? Can you speak with God about them; share the burden you carry and know you are not alone?  Jesus reminds us he is with us always. When the pandemic is over what life will be like for you? Can you dream, trust and let God lead you? Bring your prayer to a close with a time of gratitude for all you have and are receiving and in the knowledge that God has plans for us, as God reminded Jeremiah ‘I know the plans I have for you, plans for your good…’ Blessings on you and your loved ones, keep well, enjoy the space and live for today.