I invite you to begin reading this post by praying aloud St. Patrick's Prayer:
“Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.”
And now these words from the Prophet Isaiah:
"God sits high above the round ball of earth. The people look like mere ants. He stretches out the skies like a canvas - yes, like a tent canvas to live under." (Isaiah 40:22 The Message Version)
Christ above me.
Amen.
We have recently been experiencing wildfires in California. A few weeks ago, there was heavy smoke prevalent in our town and our air quality was particularly bad. There were many days when it was not safe for the kids to play outside and we had to wear our masks not only because of COVID-19, but also because it was unhealthy to breathe even for a few minutes unprotected outside. The smoke returned this last week, and it was an unwelcome smell.
Often I like to pause on evening walks around the neighborhood and admire the setting sun and the changing colors of the sky. I usually take refuge in seeing stars and the moon. However, during the fires, the sky feels oppressive. It is hazy and red. It feels harsh and depressing. There were no walks, except to briefly take the dogs out, but instead we stay in the safety of our home.
St. Patrick reminds us in his Prayer that Christ is above us. Like a canopy or tent, Christ protects us. When I felt discouraged cooped up in my home, I also pause to give thanks for a roof that protects me.
Christ above us does not mean something is lorded over us in an oppressive way - like smoke - but instead is something that protects us from harms way. Christ encircles us and shelters us. We will have pain and discomfort in life, but above us we will have protection.
Christ above me.
Amen.
Photo by Motoki Tonn on Unsplash