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Ancient and New

In her book, “Radical Gratitude,” Mary Jo Leddy explains her fascination with the Great Blue Heron. It began when she had discovered a heron colony tucked away by a pond off the beaten path. She felt as though she was witnessing an ancient world. “In the morning mist as everything emerged from the gray, the blue herons seemed like something out of the earth’s first dawn. As one took flight, the wings a-thunk a-thunk, I thought I had seen the Holy Spirit.”

I have also connected the graceful flight of the Blue Heron with the presence of the holy mystery. I suppose we humans look for tangible signs around us as we bring meaning to the intangible experience of something spiritual. I know the Holy Spirit has not manifested as a bird, but somehow witnessing a Blue Heron becomes a moment of awe that reminds me I’m not alone, and the sacredness of all things.


There is something both ancient and new in the appearance of a Blue Heron that is how I might imagine the Holy Spirit to be. That thought has been reinforced for me over the years each time a beautiful Blue Heron shows up on a walk, by the lake, far from home, at times of doubt, and times of deep connection. Those appearances become moments of awe, and an opportunity to pause and reconnect.


This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. We remember the arrival of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples and followers of Jesus, which empowered them to begin the mission of the church. This week I encourage you to think about the tangible signs around you that remind you of holy mystery. Perhaps you will have an opportunity to pause in a moment of awe and remember we are not alone.

Peace and joy,

Nancy