But For The Grace Of God

Life is precious and God given.  Life is fragile and can be lost or saved depending on timing.   A near miss in an almost car accident is about timing.  Being present when a loved one is stricken with a sudden illness or attack can mean survival rather than death.  Is it God’s hand “raised” to save us?  Is it serendipity?  Much depends on chance and simply being present for the moment.  Vigilance is a factor.

As an example, small as it is, a recent short trip to Nantucket and Great Point on a cold day led my family to experience a saving moment made especially significant for my grandchildren.  Spotting a young grey seal sliding down a dune into the sand road on our way to the Point, my son slowed and stopped his truck.  Slipping behind the rear tire, the obviously stressed seal lay still.  Its eyes closed and barely moving, the seal looked lost and not long for this world.

With a little effort we helped it make its way back over the dune and into the waves where its eyes finally opened and, off it went.  Nothing like a little cold water to awaken the senses. 

The seal was one of hundreds lounging on Nantucket beaches.  Nevertheless…

It’s always right to show care and compassion for God’s creatures.  It demonstrates respect and the realization: there but for the grace of God, go I, or a seal.

Deacon David Pierce