Light of a clear blue morning
Dawn was breaking as I headed out to pray with a parishioner before surgery today. Puffs of clouds streamed across the expanse above my house. It took my breath away as I marveled in the blend of far-off wonder and the closeness of God’s peace. A song came to mind: Dolly Parton’s “Light of a Clear Blue Morning”, and I listened to that tune as I drove across town. Concluding my visit, I walked out of the hospital waiting room, passing a woman weeping. Her face was buried in her hands, and she was surrounded by other women, kneeling around her. I turned around and asked if I could offer a prayer. The woman’s name is Tracy and she is in a time of deep fear. Her husband Max is very ill and in surgery. We prayed together for God’s healing grace to be upon Max and his medical team, and for the light of Christ to bring comfort and reassurance in this season of uncertainty.
As I reflect on that encounter, “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” returns to me. In this 1977 recording, Dolly begins with a slower tempo and the simple accompaniment of a piano, singing “It’s been a long dark night / And I’ve been a-waitin’ for the morning”. Her lilting voice lifts to the heavens. With a mournful tone, she sings, “Everything’s gonna work out just fine”. Reaching the refrain, the tune picks up and the beat of drums is added as she sings, “‘Cause I can see the light of a clear blue morning / I can see the light of a brand new day…” The song builds in joy. Dolly honors the hard times that have been and knows who she is made to be (“I’ve been like a captured eagle / You know an eagle’s born to fly”). All the while, the hardship has not changed her nature. Other voices are added, backing up Dolly and singing in harmony with her. Her vocals soar and I can hear her smiling as she sings. She believes that the clear blue morning is coming as the light peeks out, giving her reassurance.
Have you ever felt that? You’ve weathered a hard time and you keep reminding yourself that things will fall into place. The “how” is not clear and yet you know things will settle in some way. Maybe you are in that hard place right now. I pray that the light of this clear blue morning will fall upon you, and upon Tracy and Max. I believe that inspiring light is from Christ. I believe that love comes from God. And I believe that healing grace of the Holy Spirit comforts us and reassures us when we are not sure how we will make it through the storm surrounding us.
I pray that God’s abiding and overarching love will ground you this day. Uncertain? Spend time reflecting on today’s psalm (89) that notes the grandeur of our Lord. Listen to a song that builds your soul. Look up into the sky and behold the light of a clear blue morning.
With God’s help,
Katherine+
Connections in Your Life
Reflect on Psalm 89’s praise to God – in the ways God is seen as dependable and strong. How can these words enrich your own prayer life this week? Is there anything that feels challenging to you? Journal about what you notice. And keep praying!