Thoughts for the Journey
I realize that summer affords us a time to take a breath with a little
more flexibility. We seem to find time to travel a little more, relax a little more,
gather with family or friends a little more. The days are longer, so we plan more
projects to get done, walks to take, or books to read. Our bodies and minds
could refresh and reinvigorate because there just seems to be more time. What
we do for our bodies and minds certainly affects our spirits. Yet, we do need to
tend to our spirits also if we want to be as whole and healthy as possible. I want
to suggest considering prayer more than you or I have been over the last few
months.
Sure, prayer is common in most of our lives, falling into little patterns
where it takes little time, the words are familiar, we acknowledge God’s pres-
ence, and then move on to the next task on our list. I am not judging this way
of conversation! I have my own rituals morning and night. I pray the same
prayer every time I hear or see an emergency vehicle. This gives me grounding.
I do realize that I could be better and was thinking about how many ways I can
pray that are not just words but actions or through creative means. For exam-
ple, breathing in or a count of 6, hold the breath for a count of 4, breathing
out for a count of 6. If you do this three times, it not only energizes your body,
for it calms your mind and it makes you aware of your life, which is a gift given
through the Creator. Another example might be to write a letter to someone
you have not seen or talked to for some time. I mean, by hand. Not email, not
text. This act of writing and sending offers the receiver a testimony of their
importance in your life. That you care enough about them to take the time to
think, share your thoughts, honor their place in your heart, and focus inside a
busy schedule. You might not think these are acts of prayer, but what is prayer
anyway? Words and actions spoken in response to the blessings around us.
Even in times of trial, we are blessed to go to God in prayer. To find comfort
and peace. To ask for help. To be thankful for...anything. Everything.
Each of us possesses the ability to pray without clasping our hands
together or kneeling beside the bed. When nothing comes to mind, just say
out loud or in your heart, “I have nothing, You have it all.” God knows, loves,
hurts and helps because we are God’s beloveds. Prayer is not just acknowledg-
ing God’s presence, it is also believing that presence gives us sanctuary. Who
wouldn’t want to be grounded in safety and assurance so that we can rest and
renew.
Have a beautiful summer. Keep me in your
prayers as I keep you in mine.
Pastor Laurie
Calvary United Methodist Church ©