In the stillness of the early morning, amid the oceanic sound waves of cars flying past the 405,

birds calling out to one another, planes landing and taking off from the nearby airport, I raise my thoughts to you Holy God.

As my thoughts become one with yours,

I pause in appreciation.

And then I feel your presence in the strong yet gentle breeze that caresses my face, arms and legs.

You get me, Lord.

You seem to be reminding me of this when, moments later, a fresh waft of a gentler yet distinctively strong breeze

suffuses my entire body.

You are in the winds that you created for my enjoyment and pleasure.

With eyes closed I sit still, making my body relax; I listen with my heart.

In time I begin to lose the feeling of connection to the physical bed I am sitting on

and the pillows my back is rested on.

The blinds flap less noisily as the breeze pushes in through the open windows.

I am still listening, Lord.

I need you.

I want to hear you.

I want what you want for me.

You remind me that although you’re a consuming fire for every wickedness, your love is gentle and pure,

like the fresh early morning breeze.

That you want me to know this more than anything else, to have this love.

You are with me. Thank you for loving me.

I love you too, Father.