February 1, 2022
In My View

Sue Lyback
Wahkon, MN
Northeastern Minnesota Synod
Into my view, just outside my window, walked a solitary deer
Stepping precariously for the snow was deep, weaving carefully among the barren shrubs
Searching for a tiny nibble here and there.
Cold, cold day.
And I wondered how the deer survive such a life?
While I, inside my walls, find comfort in the heat of the woodburning stove.
I am grateful, but still, I wonder…
I watched the deer reach up towards the tiny branches
I could see the snow dusted on her fully furred face.
I could almost hear the snap of the brittle twigs.
As the words came to me, “This is my body, broken for you.”
And I was humbled,
in that moment deeply
humbled.
Who are we to think that Christ is only with and for us humankind?
For “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof”
Christ is among us, in ways both seen and unseen…
For 1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being.
Such thoughts rambled through my mind, filling my heart and soul
As the deer meandered back towards the woods
And there I saw the others awaiting her
A gentle nuzzling rose between them as she rejoined the small community,
As they continued their endless search for sustenance, I was drawn into communion.
Deep, true – and holy -- communion.
That which weaves us together, knows no boundaries, flows through bread and wine, twigs and snow.
The Life which is the light of all creation, the light that shines in the darkness and cannot be overcome.
The Life which is Love itself incarnate in flesh and blood.
Thanks be to God, Thanks be to God!
Let us pray,
Good and gracious God, Thank you for life and love and communion. Be with us this morning as we work together to inspire others around us to grow deeper in their own understanding of who you are and how we are connected with all of your creation. Guide our efforts and keep us always mindful of you. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen

Sue Lyback
EcoFaith Network NE MN Team
Wahkon, MN
Northeastern Minnesota Synod