Preparing for Retreat

Luke 24:13-15

Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them

I’m on Iona, taking a few days to prepare for a retreat I’m leading at Bishops House next week. On Saturday, 23 women clergy, from UK, Ireland, USA and Canada will gather to share our stories and discern anew our calling to serve in all the many ways that we live out our vocations.

As my Facebook timeline fills

with stories of journeys

of stopping places

of encounters - planned and unplanned

My prayer time fills

with thoughts of those enroute

Those filled with anticipation

Those filled with wonder

Those unsure what to expect

Those who have left room

in all their careful packing

for the unexpected

Those who journey in hope

Those whose step is weary

Those who tread lightly

Those who welcome it all, whatever it may be

Seeing the risen Christ

matching his step with ours

Planting one foot in front of the other

Or skipping alongside joyfully

Carefully waiting when we lag behind

Placing his wounded hand on our shoulder

the touch of vulnerability that releases our authenticity

In all the unknowns and possibilities

In all the curiosity, this I know

The Emmaus Christ remains with us

Coorying in beside us as we share our stories

Helping us make sense of all that has happened

Making himself known as we break bread together

And sending us on our way to continue to proclaim

The Lord is Risen

He is Risen indeed

Alleluia

Liz Crumlish April 2022