"I ... do all things in Him who strengthens me."
We invite you to a few minutes of silence before we begin our prayer time together.
Take a deep breath and breathe in the breath of God, knowing by faith that God breathes into us the breath of life.
CONTEMPLATIVE / SILENT PRAYER
Our Centering Prayer sit is 20 - 30 minutes sounded by the chime/chant. At the end of the Prayer sit, we will linger in silence a few minutes, then follow by praying together the Our Father.
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LECTIO DIVINA: Listening to the Word of God with the ears of our heart [See Chopping Wood (or Carrots) Under the Gaze of God for a discussion of Lectio Divina].
First reading & silent reflection: Reflect in silence.
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LECTIO: Philippians 4:12-14. I (Paul) know how to live in humble circumstances;
I know also how to live with abundance. In every circumstance and in all things
I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in
abundance and of being in need. I can do all things in Him who strengthens
me. My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with His glorious
riches in Christ Jesus.
Second reading & reflection: What word or phrase catches your attention? Share or pass.
Third reading & reflection: How does this word or phrase touch your life? Share or pass.
Fourth and last reading & silent reflection: How is God inviting you to grow? We will reflect in silence for a few moments before we move from Lectio Prayer to the teaching by Father Keating.
Teaching: The third Fruit of the Spirit is Peace. Peace is the
pervasive sense of contentment that comes from being rooted in God while being
fully aware of one's own nothingness. It is a state that endures beyond
the ups and downs of life, beyond emotions of joy and sorrow. At the deepest
level one knows that all is well, that everything is just right despite all
appearances to the contrary. At all times one can pray with Jesus,
"Father, into Your hands I commend My Spirit" (Luke 23:46). Fruits and Gifts of the Spirit, Father Thomas Keating.
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We now take some time to share our thoughts and reflections on our own spiritual journey and our prayer practice. Followed by brief prayers of intercession. Share or pass.
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Go in the name of Christ Jesus to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God!
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[This is an adapted format courtesy of Martha Johnston, Contemplative Outreach of Maryland and Washington, DC]
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