Ordinary Time

Pause

Scripture provides us with many ways — or postures — for approaching God.

Like in yoga or ballet, we can practice these postures. Breathing, stretching, bowing, moving, reaching.

Open yourself up to embracing the many different postures that we find within Scripture.

Listen

No one took my side at my first court hearing. Everyone deserted me. I hope that God doesn’t hold it against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that the entire message would be preached through me and so all the nations could hear it. I was also rescued from the lion’s mouth! The Lord will rescue me from every evil action and will save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and always. Amen.

2 Timothy 4:16-18

Think

I picture a darkened silhouette with arms stretched outward outlined against the rising sun. It is beautiful. And, for me, it represents that feeling of being alone. Being alone can be at once both warm and inviting and yet alienating and full of sorrow.

Listen to yourself. Do you need time away to be alone and quiet? Or are you, like the writer here, coming to God feeling left out and deserted? No matter the reason or occasion, God is always by your side. Even in our loneliest of moments, God is there.

What does the posture of loneliness look like for you? Embrace the wonder of being alone, the power of one, and know that God is with you.

Katie Gilbert

Pray

God, I feel so alone. Help me to feel your presence even when it seems as though I have been deserted. Help me to connect with you and to know that you are here. Amen.

Go

Know that no matter what posture you come with today, you are loved.

Silent, proud, humble, exhausted, alone, fearful, in awe.

May you go out into the world practicing each of these postures and exploring the ways that they draw you ever closer to the God who created you and loves you.

Amen.