The Canadian province of British Columbia on the Pacific coast declared a state of emergency on November 17 following massive floods and landslides caused by record-breaking rainfall in the previous several days. Four people have died as well as over 700,000 animals.
Before dawn
you wake to milk the cows
and then remember
their last breaths
as the waters rose.
In the city
someone you know but never met
finally falls asleep
and so does the hope
that this day will be better than the last.
Meanwhile someone they know but never met
wakes to the word widow
another to dying
another to psychotic
another and another and another
alone
afraid
waters rising
There were moments when
you knew and met
that blue sky of wonder
that dry ground of trust
but today
Isaiah’s promise
talk of Emmanuel
God with us?
empty words
meant for someone else
At the dawning of this day,
someone you know but never met
is holding your hand
and breathing with you
while the waters rise and recede
rise and recede.
by Mary Wolfe
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
–Isaiah 43:1,2
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Advent 3:Trust
After the angel delivered the news that Mary would give birth to God’s son, she said, “Let it be unto me according to your word” as if both feet were firmly in, but we don’t know that. How do you feel about God being birthed in you? Are your feet both in, both out, or one in and one out?
As you light the third advent candle, share your feelings with God. What would you like to ask for?
What love mischief are you and God doing for the world?
Let me know and I will include it in an upcoming post.
An Everyday Pilgrim 
Esther, this was so touching. Thanks for sharing the poem and Mary’s beautiful art.
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