Last week-end I led a retreat on the topic “Breath of God”. Did you know that in both the Old Testament Hebrew and the New Testament Greek languages there is one word in each language for wind, breath, and spirit. So as we understand those three words to be different, in the entire Bible they are understood to be the same. This actually makes for a beautiful image in a deeper expression and understanding of God.
The retreat took place beside a lake. It was quite a beautiful sight at early morning to see the breath, wind, spirit of God hovering over the water.
Persons attending the retreat were part of a church where I served as pastor. Many I had not seen in 18 years. What a joyful reunion! One woman knitted a prayer shawl during the retreat and presented this creative gift to me on Sunday morning. I wore it as a stole for our communion service, and will treasure it always.
One of my high school friends was the featured musician for the retreat. She composes music and is quite an accomplished pianist. As we talked about the “Redeeming Breath” of God, she played a powerful rendition of the crucifixion hymn, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” Our plan was that I would paint while she played. It felt a bit risky for me as I had not done this before. I became lost in the music and the creative expression. This is what happened…
Monday morning I propped my feet up and enjoyed the birds frolicking out my back window.
Surprise! A Redbird and a yellow butterfly appeared, both in the same morning! They each flew in on the breath of God. As Jesus said to Nicodemus, “The wind (breath, spirit) blows where it wishes, and you hear it’s sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.” (John 3:8). I just love being a part of the mystery of God!
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I can just imagine the wonder of seeing and feeling the breath of God in that beautiful setting with our mutual musician playing while you painted this amazing picture. What joy fills my heart seeing you two in my mind sharing your sacred gifts so that others could be touched by the mystery of God. Surely the presence of the Lord was in that place. You have blessed my spirit this morning seeing your lovely pictures & painting & reading your blog. Thank you, Nancy. Love you sweet friend!
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Nancy, you really brought the wind, breath and spirit alive for me! And I could not stop singing the hymn you mentioned above, “Were You There”! Your painting was beautiful as well as Gods creation–the pretty cardinal and yellow butterfly!! You are a blessing!
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“Breathe on me breath of God”. This song came to me when I was reading just now. I feel like I was present with you! That painting is amazing! I hope you will frame it. That is definitely an expression of the Holy Spirit present in that place. Thank you for sharing. I know the breath of God went with you all as you left. What a gift to see a redbird and a yellow butterfly the next morning! God with us!!! Have a blessed day.
Love you, Connie
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Oh, my dear Nancy! You have made my day more beautiful! This message brought to mind an Arab proverb: “The wind that blows between the ears of a horse is the breath of God.” I am sure your horse pal from one of our gatherings would agree. I love you.
Laura
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I love this painting and am in awe of your talent. What a blessing it must have been to be at this retreat. I bet the ladies are still talking and thinking about it! Sending hugs and love, Judy
Sent from my iPad
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