Category Archives: Prayer

Just Be Still

“Be still, and know that I am God,” says the psalmist. Nearly every Thursday evening, our contemplative group gathers to do just that. Of course there is time for fellowship, reflection and songs, but we also pray in silence for … Continue reading →

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DIY Prayer Retreat #1: What God Has Given, What God Is Doing

Introduction: For a couple of years our contemplative group has been having one-day prayer retreats that are simple, wonderful and free. Up to eight of us have gotten together at one time. We bring our own lunch and meet for a morning or a … Continue reading →

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Is Contemplative Spirituality for Everyone?

From time to time I have been asked if I believe contemplative spirituality is for everyone. Those who ask confess that they find it difficult and unrewarding to sit still. They experience God much more in doing things. “I’m just not wired that … Continue reading →

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Me and My Shadow

I am hesitant to confess this to you, because when I do, you will find evidence that it’s true. And where that leads, well, that makes me both nervous and hopeful. So here it is: I am pretty self-centred. I often put myself … Continue reading →

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God Is in Love with You

“Ask Christians what they believe about God,” David Benner writes in Surrender to Love, “and most have a good deal to say. However, ask the same people what they know about God from direct personal experience, and most will have … Continue reading →

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A Retreat with God

As I prepared to go to Bowen Island for a three-day retreat, I got a divine nudge. “Leave your laptop at home,” God seemed to say. “Just come and be with me.” But I couldn’t possibly write much without my electronic friend. Hmm. I … Continue reading →

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Go Pray Outside

“Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed,” Jesus said, “But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” Similarly these vibrant evergreens have each grown from a single seed buried in the earth. In … Continue reading →

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Free as a Bird

Finally it’s January. The New Year brings me closer to spring and the possibility of more emotional energy. Dark December is always the hardest month for me. I keep praying that God will increase my desire for him, but other … Continue reading →

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Incarnation: Some Assembly Required

Incarnation: Some Assembly Required I open my door to welcome all that You are and PUT everyone comes in anxious thoughtful joyous distraught expectant ANGRY PUT (with compassion crushing PUT blame baring PUT vulnerability) lost God unassembled I feel Your … Continue reading →

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Getting (Sort of) Ready to Celebrate Christ’s Birth

In two days Advent begins and with it comes that stress-inducing question: Are you ready for Christmas? Those words produce a flurry of images—shopping, decorating, baking, Christmas cards, and list making—that sends chills of expectations through my soul. I’m overwhelmed … Continue reading →

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