Thoughts of Summer

June 25, 2018

 Scripture

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with human beings, and he will live with them.  They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God.  He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said.  “I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:3-5)

 Thoughts of Summer

After 7 decades I still feel like a kid waiting for school to be out as summer arrives. The pace changes, the weather is spirit-lifting and the opportunity for leisure is expansive. As I give you a break from these thoughts for reflection for the summer let me point to the Prayer for Holy Leisure below.

It’s included in our “Prayers for Deck and Dock”.

We can see the God who dwells with us more easily in times of leisure but God is also clearly present even in times of pain. Watch and listen for the presence of God this summer.

I hope you take advantage of the resources for personal prayer, conversation among friends and thoughtful reflection you will find at www.touchstone.ca  Have a great summer. “See you in September”, as the old song goes.

A Prayer for Holy Leisure

I CONFESS TO You, dear God, that holy leisure is far from me. I have a minute of empty space -and I rush to fill it. I act, I do, I talk. Why can't I simply be still?

YOU NEED TO KNOW, my child, that I will not compete for your attention. If you choose to be distracted, I will not force myself on you.

O Lord, it frightens me that I could crowd you out of my life. Plant in me a longing for stillness. Create in me a hunger for open, empty space.

As you wish…