Sandwiched in the Soul Care Institute’s list of required books for reading is a little gem called the practice of the presence OF GOD by Brother Lawrence. As a humble cook, Brother Lawrence learned an important lesson through each daily chore: the time he spent in communion with the Lord should be the same, whether he is in the kitchen or on his knees in prayer. The 300 year old classic blesses and teaches us to seek His loving presence throughout each simple day.
Vicki Paxton, Cohort 4 alumni of the Soul Care Institute, wrote this poem in appreciation of learning this lesson.
Ode to Brother Lawrence
Brother Lawrence…
He’s my man!
He taught me to pray ore’
the pots and the pans.
I’m not a good cook,
So I found fertile space…for
A story (or two)
Of redemption and grace.
I said,
“Thank you for cheese on my bread,”
(as I grilled)…
Then, I heard a bird out my window,
and
I
followed
its
trill….
An alarm started beeping.
(I left the burner on high.)
Now my sandwich was burnt,
And I wanted to cry.
“I love you,” a voice said from somewhere within.
Go wash out your pan, and try it again.
I took care of the alarm and I cleaned up my mess.
And I thought of Brother Lawrence;
In his long monkish dress!
I wondered…
Can he see me?
Is he aware
of my prayer?
Maybe he’s laughing,
Is he free of all cares?
What's it like in heaven?
….I’m starting to think.
And…A sweet, still small voice says.
“Clean your pan.
Wipe the sink.”
Amen