When times are tough, darkness can feel oversized. Acts of hate, violence, division, and fear-mongering seem to grow big, like monsters hidden in closets and under beds. While darkness can overwhelm us easily, it only takes a single candle to light up a dark space. A similar pattern emerges with sound. Creaks and moans and rustling in the dark can make an old building or dark woods feel creepy and scary. Yet the sound of a clear, strong voice in a cave can echo off the walls and fill an entire space.
Prayer Persists
The natural rhythm of the life of prayer ebbs and flows. There are ups and downs, deep valleys and tops of mountains. Both the valleys and the mountain tops can be exhausting. Through the flux in the flow of prayer, persistence makes a difference. Whether we face an up or a down, persist. When we are elated and when we are exhausted, persist. Whether prayer feels dry and dull or rich and luminous, persist.
Topics:
Contemplative Practice
Prayer When Exhausted
When the days are long and hard, and there are too many of them in a row, our bodies, minds, and spirits let us know. Muscles get tight. Energy goes low. Brain fog sets in, and it’s easy to get distracted and hard to stay focused. Tears and irritation come too easily, and one’s spirit contracts, pulls in, feels small and weak. When these signs are telling us that we are exhausted, it is okay to pray in different ways.
Topics:
Contemplative Practice
