Today, let's focus on where we find calm.
Find a quiet space. Sit up tall, and close your eyes. Set a timer for one to two minutes per movement so that you can be fully present (or increase the time if you want a longer experience).
First, pay attention to God.
Take slow, deep breaths. Focus on the spot that you feel the breath in your body. Settle into the presence of Jesus.
- As you breathe in, think, "For God alone..."
- As you breathe out, think, "... my soul waits in silence" (Psalm 62:1).
Second, ponder your inner world.
Process the following with Jesus:
- Sit in silence and notice what thoughts or emotions rise to the surface.
- Ask Jesus how He wants you to respond to what you're noticing.
Third, prepare to love others.
Ask Jesus to help you answer the following:
- Identify 1-2 friendships that you've filled with activity and noise.
- Schedule times to catch up with them this week and listen more than you talk.
- Pay attention to what happens in you as you primarily listen and chat with God about it.
A closing prayer:
Holy Spirit, in the empty void, you created a world teeming with goodness (Gn 1:2). In the silent tomb of my heart, you shone the life-giving light of Christ (2 Cor 4:6).
Help me remember how powerfully you work in the empty spaces of silence.
Help me believe that you can raise the dead parts of me.
And may I be calmer, more courageous, and more connected to you and others.
Amen.
Peace be with you until next week,
Rusty McKie
Don't miss out on a single email by adding rustymckie@gmail.com to your address book or whitelist me.
If you're wondering, this is why I lead you to focus on your breath.
If you missed last week’s article, check out The Forgotten Discipline.
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