I long, yes, I faint with longing

to enter the courts of the Lord.

With my whole being, body and soul,

I will shout joyfully to the living God.

Even the sparrow finds a home,

and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young

at a place near your altar,

O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, my King and my God!

Psalms 84:2-3

 This week, a gift of quiet listening while gazing out my cathedral window at the bird community flitting around their afternoon snack. A circular pew of doves gather at the altar, stilled among the pine needles and shed leaves. Their dusky feathers feign silver under light shower peeking through crooked branches. I’m awed by their reverent hush, the bowing of  heads despite marketplace activity. I’m following their lead into the courts of the Lord.

Want to join me there?