Farmers’ Market Grace
Katie Harmon-McLaughlin of Sacramento, CA, USA
You who are my disciples must be found continuing in the forefront of those organizations and movements which are recognizing the worth of persons and are committed to bringing the ministry of my Son to bear on their lives. -Doctrine and Covenants 151:9
Early on a Sunday morning, we decided to walk through our local farmers’ market. I walked the rows of vegetables and hand-made crafts and watched neighbors of all ages and cultures sharing in conversation. I thought about my own congregational home, where members desire to connect with our neighborhood in transformative relationship. I realized the Spirit was already alive in the community right before my eyes.
I held in my gaze this growing awareness of the presence of God in this place, these people, this moment. It is humbling to acknowledge that God is happening outside the walls of the church without our plans and agendas. The words of a wise friend filled my heart, “Spirit is always seeking incarnation.”
As I slowed down and witnessed the vibrant expression of community around me, a familiar melody drifted along the breeze, through the hands exchanging organic produce, fresh flowers, and local honey. A slender Asian man sat under a tent playing “Amazing Grace” on a bamboo flute. People kept talking, laughing, and perusing the aisles, but I stopped and listened as I felt my whole being caught up in the immediacy of the Spirit.
I often strain trying to imagine the future. I wonder what will become of the church I love. I mourn what is dying and anticipate new expressions of Spirit laboring to be born. Sometimes I slow down and listen and notice what is around me. I notice the grace that is always being given and the Spirit who is always seeking to incarnate in the endless possibilities for human connection on this sacred planet. God is in this place, these people, this moment, wherever we are.
Prayer Phrase
“Be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants Section 163:10b).
Spiritual Practice
This month, spend time each day noticing where divine grace is already pouring forth. Perhaps it is a simple awareness of creation’s systems and cycles that support our daily existence. The sun rises each day without being asked. There are underlying rhythms and relationships that hold the fabric of our lives together. Sometimes they fall into the background of our lives. We forget to see the natural generosity that spills over throughout our days-of the planet, the people we love, the Sacred Presence in all moments, the kindness of strangers we encounter, and the gifts we carry within. What is already being given in your life? What does it look like to be vulnerable to divine grace today?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
