Photo Credit: Stephen Pedersen on Unsplash
by Joan Kelley
“It doesn’t have to be
the blue iris, it could be
weeds in a vacant lot, or a few
small stones;
just pay attention,
then patch
a few words together and don’t try
to make them elaborate, this isn’t
a contest but the doorway
into thanks, and a silence in which
another voice may speak.”
--Mary Oliver
Sometimes I try too hard. I think that can be true of my prayer life as well. I think my prayers need to be all cleaned up with a beautiful red bow on top, complete sentences, well crafted poetic statements, and a perfect blend of gratitude, hope and dependence on God. But I think God says “Child, just give me what you have, even if it’s nothing at all. That’s how much I love you. I simply want to be with you today!”
Question for Reflection:
What new doorways into prayer might God be inviting you to open – simplicity, gratitude, silence, or paying attention? Journal your response and ask a friend, mentor, spiritual director to join you in a conversation about your answer.
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