splashes of grace

On Easter Monday my wife, Sally, and I went for a walk at a local reservoir. It was a mild day and we decided to walk all the way around the reservoir.

After a while we stopped and I took this photograph, and then we saw a bench so sat on it to have a quick drink of water.

Suddenly we heard a loud ‘sploosh’. We looked up and saw that a bird was flapping in the water right in front of us, trying to take off. Then it gained momentum, took off and as it lifted off we could see that it had a fish in its talons. It was an osprey.

What an amazing moment, and a privilege to witness it. If we hadn’t stopped at that place at that exact time we would have missed it.

Since then I have become aware of what I am calling my ‘splashes of grace’. A bit like that wonderful occasion with the osprey these are unexpected moments of blessing. They are moments when I catch a glimpse of God in other people or in events over which I have no control. And they happen whether or not I notice them, but looking out for them means I am more attuned to them and see them more frequently.

I have had splashes of grace in unexpected things people have said to me; in sharing food with other people; in apparent coincidences as I have been praying, in unexpected phone calls and more beside.

So what do I do with these splashes of grace?

First of all, I receive them and enjoy them.

Secondly I am grateful for them – and express that gratitude to other people if it has involved them, and to God.

Thirdly I am looking to see how I may be part of splashes of grace for others.

I hope and pray that you experience some splashes of grace yourself.

Be blessed, be a blessing