Secret Pals. We were assigned secret pals a
long time ago. It was then our chance to do special things for them, not
having them know who was behind the acts of friendship and kindness. It was
fun and it was exciting, being on both ends. It reminds me of having a
secret crush as a young boy. You wanted to reach out and say something
profound or do something good, but with a since of concern that maybe, just
maybe they might not like you back. The next step was the note. It went
something like this; I like You. Will you go with me - check the box:
yes [] no [] maybe []
The note allowed for distance and protection. The note could be thrown
away if it did not work out like we wanted. The note was and is an attempt
to reach out in love, even if it is done in silent and secret. Even as
children, we seek to reach out and love others.
Hear the Good News, As God is love and love is
within us, that means that God dwells within us. This passage, as if we
needed it, give us the necessary permission to reach out and love people.
Our next task at hand is to do it out loud. Notes today offer more
expression than silence, they offer keep sakes and personal touches, but
nothing takes the place of that personal one-on-one encounter. As for
loving, let us all do it out loud and with the heart and love of God.
Prayer: Father of Love and Grace, thank you for dwelling within
me. Your presence alone changes my very being and allows me to reach out to
others. Let me love and enjoy all of those around me, and let their presence
make a difference in my life. Let me share myself with others, as You have
shared Yourself with me. Thank You for all that You have done in my life and
all You will continue to do, for I ask this through Christ, my Lord and
Savior. Amen.