Considering Dandelions

You are the salt of the earth.  Matthew 5:13

I was always taught that dandelions were not welcome in pretty manicured yards.  They may start out blending in with the desired grasses but with their maturity were eventually labeled invaders that did not fit in.  Pesky weeds that needed to be sprayed, ripped up root and all and cast away. As a child, I didn't understand why. Was there ever a more beautiful yellow, a more deliciously luscious green? The yellow of the new flower is so vibrant and always indicates warmer weather has arrived.  The white fluffy seeds of the older flower are so beautiful when caught by the wind or the breath of a child.  I often wished I could take a ride on that dandelion dust and travel with it.

Dandelions show us the power of small actions.  Not unlike these feathery seedlings, we can salt the earth, serving others and leaving lasting imprints on hearts known and unknown. 

Tomorrow I fly to Arizona with a group of Pastors with whom I've shared times of reflection, communion and story over the last 3 years in ministry.  Our journey will take us from Seattle to Phoenix then Tucson and Nogales, Mexico.  We are engaging in study about immigration and the role of the church.  

Prayer of Surrender

I confess, Lord, my demanding spirit.
I've told you how prayer could be answered.  To my shame.
I've even bargained with You.
               No wonder my spirit is so sore and weary.
Now, Lord, I want to give up all this self-effort. 
I want You in my life more than I want this thing I've been praying for to happen.
         So by an act of will, I relinquish all this to You,
removing myself
so You can be free to do Your will in me, or through me, or around me. 
How grateful I am to realize that the answer to my prayer may not depend upon me at all!
-Catherine Marshall