Journey through Advent
There are times in my life when I just feel like quitting, giving up, letting others do for me.
This fall has been challenging to me, both physically and spiritually. I do not recover from mishaps as I did when younger. This is very debilitating, especially on a spiritual or psychological level.
Last evening during our church’s Lectio Divina prayer group, I spoke of how we rejoice when in the presence of God. I ask then why can I not rejoice always; because, I know that God is with me, God is within me always, during good times or bad. I know that during group sessions, such as last night, my prayers become stronger, because I am with other like-minded children of God. The Gospel assures us always that when we bond together in prayer, we create transformational relationships with each other and with God.
On Sunday, I attended church, knowing that I would not be comfortable physically; I was praying to God, hoping beyond hope that spiritually I would improve, while being with others. It was not working; my mind and soul was closed to God’s Love and Compassion. Through the prayers, which I silently recited, the excellent sermon by Gay Rahn, and the wonderful music, I remained spiritually destitute.
I then noticed that the scheduled healing prayer minister was not in church. I ask the liturgical coordinator if I could step in. He agreed. I reluctantly joined other servers at the Table to celebrate communion. I was not sure if I was spiritually capable of truly passing God’s Blessings to others. After receiving the Sacraments, I positioned myself in the prayer corner, not expecting anyone to stop and pray.
How wrong I was; two parishioners joined me asking for communal prayers to God. I spoke from the heart; I have no idea what the words were that I used. What I do know is that by the time the service was over, my spiritual condition had changed dramatically. The power of two of us praying for God to touch our lives is a wonderful experience.
When we pray, no matter how dire the situation seems, God listens. When we pray, the bond between us, and between God and us strengthens to such a point as to change our very lives. When we ask God for anything, thanksgiving is increased innumerably. When we give thanks to God, something within ourselves returns to its natural state and returns our world to the way God meant for it to be.
In our journey, in our awaiting for the renewal of Christ in our lives this Advent season, may you experience all of the love and understanding offered freely by God.
Meditating to Heal 