Reflections on Faith


Reflecting upon Audrey's baptism, I'm reminded of how faith is two very different things at the same time: a gift--and a response.



Nothing speaks more to me about the Creator's nature than the natural world itself. Think about it: God could have made everything purely functional without any aesthetic consideration whatsoever: no sound or melody...black and white...bland..tasteless...without texture or fragrance, talent or design.
(Speaking of talent and design: photo's courtesy of Jay Vanos)



This is a view from grounds at the Wayfarers Chapel, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Being at the ocean makes me feel small in a good way (as opposed to feeling small in a bad way; like when I'm driving around L.A. freeways.)

Physically inhaling moist, salty ocean air is like exhaling the fullest, most restorative sigh from deep down in my soul. In this unfathomably large universe with its vast, unending oceans, I am minuscule. Still, God knows my baby, my husband...me... and every thought each of us will ever have. And cares for us. That's when it's good to be small.




There is also something inexplicably healing about music--especially a human voice singing from the heart. Jeanie sang a very special blessing for Audrey at her Christening...

Forever Young (Bob Dylan)
May God bless and keep you always,
May your wishes all come true,
May you always do for others
And let others do for you.
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.

May you grow up to be righteous,
May you grow up to be true,
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you.
May you always be courageous,
Stand upright and be strong,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.

May your hands always be busy,
May your feet always be swift,
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift.
May your heart always be joyful,
May your song always be sung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.