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Beloved Friends,
Today we gently lengthen our silence to 17 minutes as we enter into the second week of Lent.
If you would like to share this experience of sacred silence in community, we will be gathering live via Zoom today at 12:15 Eastern Time (please adjust for your time zone). Simply click here or on the link above to join the gathering. If you need this additional information... the Meeting ID it is 870 9072 8073 and the Passcode is 58964. Text me at 216-224-7452 for any additional assistance connecting.
I will offer a few words of reflection, share today's Lectio Divina reading, and then we will enter into sacred silence for 17 minutes together. You may simply sit quietly, journal, sip on some hot cocoa, go for a short saunter or do whatever helps you find your sacred center amidst the silence. During the final minute of our shared silence, I will invite folks to share any prayers or reflections they would like in the chat. After we conclude our 17 minutes of silent prayer, you are free to return to the activities of your day or remain on for a few minutes longer to share in conversation with others who are on this sacred journey as well.
A link to the recording of each prayer session will be included in the next day's email and will also be available on the Lengthening Silence web page.
Today, I invite you to explore the practice of Lectio Divina (sacred reading) as the focus for your silent prayer. Lectio Divina is an invitation to read slowly, savor the writing and listen with your heart for a particular word (or short phrase) that shimmers for you when you read it. Allow these words to be your companion as you pray. Read them aloud. Hold them on your heart. Chat with God about what they might mean for you today. Journal briefly about your reflections if you feel so moved. But, most importantly, keep it simple. Don't overthink - this is a spiritual practice of the heart, not the head. Simply be still and know that God is with you. Understanding comes slowly (if at all!). Be patient and trust in the slow work of God.
Here is today's Lectio Divina suggestion for your 17 minutes of silence...
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 6-7)
Be encouraged in your gently growing practice of silent prayer as you tune out the noise around you and tune in to God's Presence. Remember that you are part of a broad and beloved community of faithful folks who are also nurturing the gifts of simplicity and stillness this Lenten season. Let us lift one another in prayer as we journey together into the ever-deepening quiet...
Your Companion in Silence,
Sharon
Sharon Seyfarth Garner
Director, Belly of the Whale Ministries
216-224-7452
sharon@bellyofthewhaleministries.net
www.bellyofthewhaleministries.net
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