SOUL CrossTraining

Just ahead I notice the path goes under the road. There is a large circular opening, filled with darkness. I wasn't sure of where I was or where the tunnel would lead. As I slowly edged closer, I noticed the path outside the tunnel was well worn from the rushing water and from the footprints of other hikers. Many had stood in this place. I wanted to head in, to make my way through. But, it was too dark and I could not see where it ended or what might be lurking inside. As I stood there, something deep inside of me knew I needed to make my way through this tunnel. The darkness was overwhelming and the unknown paralyzed me. I edged closer to the opening and peaked inside, hesitantly yet longing to make my way through the darkness I caught a glimpse of the other end. Way out in the distance I could see a ray of light as the angle of the sun made it's way into the darkness. Although I could not see what was between the beginning and the end, there was hope as the lush, vibrant f...

Read the following passage using the Lectio Divina practice noted above. Here's a quick reminder to follow: 1. SILENCIO: Begin by quieting your heart and allowing yourself to become aware of God's presence. 2. LECTIO: Read the passage of scripture slowly and out loud . Listening for a word or phrase. Write down the word or phrase that stands out to you. 3. MEDITATIO: Read the passage a second time out loud, linger and listen for any places you sense God inviting you to explore . 4. ORATIO: Ask yourself, why this phrase or word ? What might you need to explore. Ask God to open your eyes to more. 5. CONTEMPLATIO: Contemplate as you rest and wait with God allowing the words to sink deeply into your heart. Take some time to write down what you sense God is prompting in you and journal your thoughts and prayers . Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfai...

Journaling is a way of connecting with God as you become more aware and attentive to Him. Consider these words as you explore journaling as a spiritual practice: OPEN my eyes so I can see what YOU show me of YOUR miracle-wonders. Psalm 119:18 The Message There are lots of different approaches to journaling. But remember our purposes are about cultivating a deeper relationship with God as we grow to know him more. Join me over the next several weeks as we take a look at a variety of ways of journaling and prompts to begin our writing. So, let's begin. Our first step into journaling connects our writing to a portion of scripture. Lectio Divina In this journal practice, you'll be reading a portion of scripture as a way to enter into journaling. Think in terms of attending to Scripture not necessarily studying scripture. Sometimes we refer to this type of reading as "devotional reading" or "lectio divina". Essentially, reading and reflecting on scripture in th...

For me, journaling is one way I check in with the state of my soul. It helps me take stock of where I am, what I am thinking, what I am feeling, and reminds me of where I want to be headed and mostly of who I want to be. Often, I begin by bringing my thoughts and feelings to the surface -- then begin inviting God to shine a light on what and where he would like for me to focus my attention. Sometimes my entry finishes with an "aha moment" where I clearly see something I hadn't noticed before -- and sometimes my entry finishes with a prayer that simply says... Lord, help me... Either way I sense God reminding me that he cares about me and understands what ever I am going through at that time. I like to start writing what's on my mind.  What I am thinking?  What am I feeling?  Why is this bothering me?  How am I responding?  How do I want to respond?  What do I sense God is asking of me? Sometimes I write pages and pages.  Other times I may on...