I spent the weekend at a friend’s bed and breakfast, savouring the magical moments that came, while trying to make memories with people I care about.  Several years had passed since I had been there and the woman I had driven out had not seen our gracious host for many years.  Time somehow shifted from chronos to kairos for us, stretching out before us in lazy moments. We could breathe deeply here.

The response to Psalm 126 today is those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy. When I started making memories two years ago with loved ones, the goodbyes were heart-wrenching and the time bittersweet.  I have become better at not wondering if these memories will be the last.  Some dear hearts I have seen several times since we thought this was goodbye.  I now have shifted to shouts of joy whenever possible. None of us know how many days we have–not even those who doctors dare to try to guesstimate. The reality is we must stay in the moment.

Over our first supper — a scrumptious, group-created under the direction of the chef-host — we oohed and aahed at the first delicious bites.  My friend, fork lifted to her mouth, stopped and drew attention to the moment we were all having.  The six of us varied in age but these three young folks in particular understood what she was saying a much as we elders.  We were sharing a moment–one that would never come again–filled with wonder, joy, satisfaction, gratitude, and openness. How often these types of moments slip away without acknowledgement.

I had brought out memories with me–photos of some of our previous moments: the greeting ministry team at our church, a hay ride we had gone on, the host’s 50th birthday party that I had surprised him with, a birthday party that friends threw for my friend and I, my famous Epiphany party where guests dressed as royalty…captured in our hearts forever.  We flipped through them, with phrases like “remember this?!” or “How is so and so now?” Moments stretch out before us and remain with us, solidifying friendships and strengthening hearts.  Moments allow us to reap joy, again and again.

As I continue to make memories, I am grateful to those brave enough to participate. Last night I went to a play with friends.  One drove me home afterwards and we sat in the car, talking for a very long time.  I should have invited her up but instead we stayed where we were.  I think movement might have broken the spell.  At one point, I became very aware that this was another moment, a time to be cherished and appreciated.  Joy was being reaped, even in the midst of hard conversation. How truly blessed am I!

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

What moments in life have brought you deep joy?

Have you ever experienced time shifting from chronos to kairos?

Prayer

Stretcher of Time, you give us all we need in inexplicable moments that last a life time. May we pay attention to the gift of these snippets of joy and savour them as we reap the harvest of their impact. Amen.