Called by Earth & Sky on a Perfect Sunday Morning

Yesterday we had arranged to meet family members in Napanee for lunch, half an hour away, so we had a choice on our hands. Take advantage of a stellar, calm morning to get out in our kayaks on the Bay of Quinte or drive half an hour in the opposite direction to participate in worship? 

In the end we squeezed in all three, beginning with a paddle at 7:30. We chose a stretch of the shore where we are usually alone and there is plenty of wildlife. We weren't disappointed,  with sightings of ospreys and blue herons, swallows and jumping fish. A beaver swam by, a raccoon patrolled the shore, and we saw our first yellow water lily blooms of the year. It was all we could hope for -- including the water snakes. 

Home for a quick shower, then on to church where the grandkids had decided on the balcony, so up we went. We realized that because no one else was up there we didn't need masks, the first time in more than two years of intermittent worship attendance due to the pandemic. By a happy coincidence -- providence? -- one of the hymns was Pat Mayberry's wonderful Called By Earth and Sky. We belted it out, unfettered. 

On to Napanee where the restaurant we chose has opened an outdoor patio under large trees and by a stream. A perfect day served up by the Creator. 

Here are the lyrics for the hymn, which is #135 in the United Church music resource, More Voices:

Chorus:  Called by earth and sky, promise of hope held high

This is our sacred living trust

treasure of life sanctified, called by earth and sky.

1. Precious these waters endless seas, deep ocean’s dream 

Waters of healing, rivers of rain The wash of love again.

2. Precious this gift, the air we breathe; wind born and free.

 Breath of the Spirit, blow through this place, our gathering and our grace. 

3. Precious these mountains, ancient sands; vast fragile land. 

Seeds of our wakening, rooted and strong, Creation's faithful song. 

4. Precious the fire that lights the way, bright dawning day. 

Fire of passion, sorrows undone, our faith and justice one.

Called by Earth and Sky Words and Music Pat Mayberry 

Copyright 2005, Pat Mayberry. All Right Reserved.