Contemplative prayer practices are founded on the belief that we are never separated from God; there is a continual invitation to turn our awareness toward God’s steady gaze of love. We are prone to forget just how near God is and go about our daily lives as though everything depends on us and us alone. Contemplative prayer beckons us to return to the truth that there is never a moment when we are without the presence of Love. The more we return to this awareness, to God with us, the deeper our abiding in him becomes.
Psalm 90 begins with the phrase, “Lord, through all the generations you have been our home!” The word “home” is also translated as “dwelling place” and “refuge.” My times of silent, wordless prayer have become like returning to God as a warm and peaceful home—a home where I am always welcomed with love, encouraged to be raw and real, allowed to lay down my cares and rest. God is my home, my refuge, my dwelling place to which I can always return.
If you could use some time resting in the peaceful, loving presence of God, consider joining us for our Fall Sabbath Retreat, October 25-27. We are offering a substantial discount for pastors, ministry leaders, and spiritual directors.
I hope you can join us!
