Suzanne Patterson

“Tis a Fearful Thing

‘Tis a fearful thing
to love what death can touch.

A fearful thing
to love, to hope, to dream, to be –

to be,
And oh, to lose.

A thing for fools, this,

And a holy thing,

a holy thing
to love.

For your life has lived in me,
your laugh once lifted me,
your word was gift to me.

To remember this brings painful joy.

‘Tis a human thing, love,
a holy thing, to love
what death has touched.”
― Judah Halevi

“Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt, we may. Herein all the children of God may unite, notwithstanding these smaller differences.”
― John Wesley

“Imagine a job posting by God: Wanted! Persons to fill divine appointments. Responsibilities: rescuing victims of social injustice—including the poor, sick, hungry, women, children, immigrants, and those who live alternate lifestyles. Also wanted! Persons to fill divine appointments to rescue perpetrators of social injustice. No experience necessary. A willing heart is essential. Equipment provided: power and effectiveness through prayer. Please respond. God, may we not limit your call to the extraordinary and miraculous. Remind us of our call to fill divine appointments within our everyday lives. Amen.”
― Upper Room, The Upper Room Disciplines 2015: A Book of Daily Devotions