"Kindred" | Reflection by Lisa Omark

We feel it before we know it. We meet another with whom we find a sure connection, a heart full of welcome. These kindred spirits grace our lives with friendship, laughter, and hope. Once found, their presence is unconditional; they help us weather all life’s vicissitudes, whatever the magnitude. Kindred spirits offer guiding footprints so we can give the best of ourselves to others. Perhaps Leonard Cohen says it best, “Ring the bells that still can ring; forget your perfect offering. There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” It is a privilege to share life with our light-giving kindred spirits.

Surely God has a hand in these relationships. Through them, the work He has prepared for us to do becomes better defined. We see with more clarity, act with more intention. Last spring, as the war in Ukraine was intensifying, the Trinity Grants Committee agreed to allocate almost half of its annual budget to purchase food and medical supplies for the people of eastern Ukraine. We were fortunate to have a Trinity couple guide us in our efforts. In December, two Ukrainian agencies received a hope-filled check from Trinity Church. Together, we let light in, offering much-needed aid.

The world is filled with the grace and beauty of God’s hand. Unfortunately, too few among us live that grace and beauty. During this Lenten season, let us resolve to share our kindred ways with others so they, too, may find paths from the wilderness of hardship into light.  Let us make no peace with the injustices of this world.