The other day I had the unique privilege of spending a few moments with a couple just after they celebrated the birth of a child. When I entered the room I saw a beautiful baby resting silently in the loving arms of her mother. No words were needed to express her love for her child. Granted, there will be many future moments where the mother will sing or speak to her baby, but there will be countless hours of silence where the baby is simply held by both mother and father. The baby cradled in the arms of either parent will be enough for trust, safety, and intimacy.
Contemplative prayer is resting silently in the arms of God. No words are needed. Throughout the history of the church, contemplation is a quiet awareness of God. It is a consciousness that goes deeper than words or thoughts can express. It is resting in God. If Meditation is thinking about something and it meaning, then contemplation is a deeper awareness beyond the scope of words.
As she held her child, there were no words spoken or needed yet there was great awareness. This week, seek to be aware of God’s presence in your life. Look for it. No words are needed to do this. Silently pray for God’s presence to envelop you. Trust in his grace.
This week’s reading:
- Monday – 2 Timothy 1
- Tuesday – 2 Timothy 2
- Wednesday – 2 Timothy 3
- Thursday – 2 Timothy 4
- Friday – Titus 1
Please Pray for:
- The people devastated by damage from Hurricane Michael.
- Our nation and our leaders.
- Our families, homes, workplace, church, and community.
- Those that are suffering and grieving.
- Ongoing Building Renovations, Modifications, and Phase 3: Construction of New Youth Building and rear parking.
- The United Methodist Church.