Signs tell us much about what is to come or of consequences or of warnings or of good news. All Saints' has a sign at the front door that calls it a house of welcome and inclusion for everyone. Today's sermon was given by Martin Smith who was formerly a monk at the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE) and is now priest in Washington, DC. He spoke passionately and powerfully about prayer. It was a surprise to see Martin, as he has led clergy retreats in CT. All Saints' is my home away from home and I'll plan to be back there again next Sunday. It was a full church including someone with a therapy dog and lots of out of state visitors. They serve breakfast every Sunday between the 8 and 10 am services as an amazing sign of hospitality.
I walked back along the boardwalk to our house with a crystal blue sky above and a sea of folks on the beach--fed in many ways with the wonder of this day and a community of love. Signs are everywhere and catch our eyes in surprising ways. "My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning (Psalm 130). I wonder what tomorrow will bring.