Centering Prayer

Centering prayer is one of my favorite ways to spend time with God. It's a time to just sit and be still in the presence of God. Not talking or listening. Just being. We seldom spend enough time just sitting quietly. Every part of us needs that stillness - body, soul, spirit. Even more so, …

Lectio Divina for Christian Writers

Lectio divina is a helpful practice for Christian writers - and for anyone who wants to grow in relationship with God. The term lectio divina means “divine reading.” This is where you engage the Bible spiritually - not with your mind, but with your spirit. While there is a time and place to engage your heart and mind …

Really Present, Really Listening

A classmate shared today about an interview with Mother Theresa, in which she was asked about her prayer life with God. When asked what she said in prayer, she answered, "Nothing. I listen." When asked what God said, she answered, "Nothing. He listens." How powerful and true. Often we are taught (though don't necessarily "do") to …

Would You Like God’s Undivided Attention?

The reality is - we've got it. God's undivided attention. Every minute of every day. Amazing, isn't it? The creator of the universe is focused totally on you, right this minute. And every minute. He is always here, and you have His undivided attention at all times. The problem comes because we are not always …

Why It Is Vital to Hold Still

Have you ever tried to keep a puppy quiet when he was awake and ready for action? Impossible, isn't it? Sometimes I think that's how we must appear to God. When we set out to live a life of prayer, walking and talking with God, there are times we absolutely must hold still. In Psalm …

Keep the Reservoir Pure

Ever since I took a class on Christian History in seminary two summers ago, I have been fascinated with the Desert Fathers and Mothers. These were the Christians who, after Rome made Christianity a “state religion,” went into the desert to seek spiritual purity directly from God. They felt that “official Christianity” was becoming diluted …

Holding onto Peace

I felt so tired tonight and I asked God why. Why should I be this tired on a Monday? He gently reminded me of my meltdown this morning. He’s told me that a lot lately. I lack energy for no apparent reason. I’m healthy. I’m resting. I’ve resumed my spiritual disciplines. I’m taking regular sabbatical …