Living School Part 1: Seeds From Long Ago

Lammas is the Celtic Christian name given to the months of August, September, and October. It represents among other things the harvesting of seeds planted in the spring or summer. Metaphorically, I am reflecting on this time of year with a magnifying glass placed upon my own life. It is a healthy practice to do regularly but especially significant to do when I or we are taking the long walk through transition.

I have left pastoral ministry after 30 some years and have opened wide the door to Celtic Way with some of the most fun-loving and talented people. Gratitude fills my soul when I picture their faces J. I believe the entrance into harvesting is to give thanks for soul friends, partners with differing gifts and voices, those who accompany us who bring both broader and deeper visions. We are communal people, not meant to travel alone.

Recently I with several others have started our first year of what is known as, The Living School. Our three primary teachers are Cynthia Bourgeault, Richard Rohr, and James Finley. They are learned, humble, and at times hilarious in their humor and transparent humanity. I am so grateful for them. However, this whole experience left me with a nagging question…

Have you ever wondered about God’s ways in your life? I’m sure that is a rhetorical question. Have you asked God, personal questions such as, “Why now?” “Why at this time in my life and not earlier?” And with these kinds of questions might just follow for you as they did for me; questions from our soul that wonders as if we might know a better way. “Really, Lord?” I asked out loud. Do you want me to engage contemplation, meditation, stillness, and quiet?” “Me?”

Harvest season has arrived right on schedule. Seeds which were planted so very long ago; seeds which were resisted and scoffed at time and time again – are now slowly being harvested. The Lord of the harvest is a patient and loving One.

In order for us to benefit fully from this time of year our first inner movement may be to embrace gratitude. Make a list if that is helpful. Drink from the well of thanksgiving. Our next move may be to put off some new activity for a while and sit. Harvest unlike the fields on the farm in rural Iowa begins with inactivity. The emphasis is first on being. The doing will follow, all in God’s time. Speak these words out loud, softly and slowly as you enter into the silence…

Be still and know that I am God.

Be still and know that I am.

Be still and know.

Be still.

Be.