Looking for that Eternal Moment!

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As I arrived at Vespers for my 103rd visit to my Orthodox Parish, the words of Fr. Evan of Orthodoxy Live came to mind. He explained that there are times in our life where we seem to be outside of time. That is, we are hanging with friends and then we look up at the clock and can't believe that three hours has gone by.  He said this to explain what it is like for God who is outside of time. He also said we sometimes experience this in Worship.  I don't know if I have experienced this in worship; well, maybe a little. There have been time when I've been at Vespers that I've been very aware of the communion of Saints and felt a part of something bigger than myself. Perhaps that is what Fr Evan is talking about.

I know it's a bad idea to attend worship and look for experiences. If I wanted to do that, I should have stayed a Pentacostal.  But I do want to actually worship God, in Spirit and in Truth and being part of an eternal moment would, I believe, help rid me of the distractions that constantly bombard my mind as I sing hymns during Vespers.  I guess it's all about preparation, when possible. On my way to Vespers, I usually spend the 30 minute drive listening to podcasts form Ancient Faith Radio or some Orthodox Hymns.  Last night, however, I listened to Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Neil Diamond -not exactly theologically correct, although the music is soothing.

Fr Gary, in his homily, made reference to Pope Francis' statement that Christ died for Atheists. This statement by the pope caused a lot of stir in the news but Fr. Gary said, probably, Pope Francis was taking the same view as the Orthodox, that Christ died for everyone even though not all will accept. Jim Martin wasn't there last night, although I did see Tiffany and Ben. Tiffany remarked, "I've been seeing you all over the place." That is true. We ran into each other at Surf Taco a couple of weeks back and I saw Tiffany and Ben in Walmart last week.

Next Saturday I will not be at Vespers because my wife and I are driving south to my daughter's college graduation.  So, who is the patron Saint of traveling so I can ask for prayers? ☺