Mary-Ellen's Note "Come, walk with me by the sea."

Mary-Ellen's Note
 
"Come, walk with me by the sea."

"Yes, Lord."

"The day is early; the sea is still; all is quiet."

"I can feel the creative power of God in all nature.  Yes, this day is lovely, a good time to praise God!"

"Let's pray silently for a few minutes as we walk along the beach."

"Yes, Lord."
 
(The sea is gray-gold, the sun rises in a sky beautiful with orange, gold, pink, scarlet, and shades of blue and green.  The seagulls swoop and cry.  The waves gently lap the shore.)

The Lord looks up and smiles, and I know he has something in mind.

"Are you still feeding my sheep?  So many stray from the way."

“I try Lord, but I am busy and folks don't seem receptive, but I do continue to try.  I teach Sunday School and host a prayer group; I talk to those I meet when the opportunity rises."

"You tend my lambs, but are you really feeding my sheep?  Do all your friends know the truth?  Do you reach out to those in need with love and service?"

"Truly, Lord, I do try.  I volunteer at a shelter and occasionally assist at a daycare.  I visit the sick at church and stay in touch with family."

The Lord smiles, but there is more.

"Do you love me more than these close friends, than your material possessions, than the food you eat?"

I think of all the things I have, of all those I love.  "These are gifts from the Father's love," I venture in reply.

The Lord laughs aloud.  "Yes, I know," he says, "but where is your treasure, what do you love most?"

"I love you." I say humbly.

"Then feed my sheep," He says as we continue down the beach.

Imaginary dialogue with Jesus based on John 21.