D-V's Desk

  My sincere thanks to all who expressed their sympathy on the recent passing of my beloved cat, Shalimar.  I truly appreciate the words and cards of condolences. Shalimar rescued me in June of 2005.   I was living in Columbia, Missouri at the time.   We do not know Shalimar’s full history before she came to the shelter.   The Vet believes Shalimar was around one year old at the time I adopted her.   So, while my heart is broken, I am grateful for the almost 20 years we had together. LBC, Little Bombay Cat, as I often called her, was a shy yet sweet and affectionate cat.   She loved to come up on my bed in the morning and at night to be petted and told how beautiful and what a good girl she was.   Sometime, during the night, she would surprise me by jumping up on the bed and letting out a soft “meow” to let me know she was there. Our animal companions bring us so much joy, companionship, and love.   The Rectory feels empty without her p...

             Winter gives way to Spring.   Graduation from High School or College.   A new job or a promotion.   A well-earned retirement.   The birth of children or grandchildren.   Life-saving heart surgery or cancer treatment.   Life gives you and me many opportunities for new beginnings.   An opportunity to start new and fresh. This morning Simon Peter begins to live in to his name—the Rock.   Peter previously denies knowing Jesus during Jesus’ trials.   You remember that Peter is outside, in the courtyard keeping warm.   Three times Peter is asked about his relationship to Jesus.   Each time Peter denies having any kind of relationship with Jesus. Jesus appears to Peter and the others several times after the resurrection.   Today we hear about the disciples encountering Jesus by the Sea.   After a breakfast of fish, Jesus gets real with Peter.   “Peter, do you love Me?’ Jesu...