On this cusp of Advent, let us stand hushed, anticipating, and still, and peer inside each reflection offered to us.  Imagine, listen, ponder, attend. Mary’s yes, at the intersection of heaven and earth, is not just a moment in time; it transcends time and empowers the future, a future of which we are a part.  “The one thing she did and does is the one thing we all have to do, to bear Christ into the world,”

At a time when there is so much suffering, and when people are focused on divisive political issues and beliefs, let us focus on the God of Mercy, our theme for this month. Spending time with the God of Mercy can soften our hearts and help us find common ground with those who are from a different religion or country, or who hold a different belief system.

What has been life-sustaining for me in my most stressful times? My Sacred Space. God is everywhere, both within us and around us. You do not need a physical place to connect with the Divine, yet there is something special about having a physical place that brings an awareness of God in a more intentional way.

If you are feeling tired, overwhelmed by your inbox, or just plain down right now, I invite you to pause for a moment. Notice the rhythm within you and around you.

Start by recognizing the natural rhythm of your breath. Inhale. Exhale. There is a reason we feel out of tune when life gets busy.

Connecting with your creativity is about opening the door to allow this Creator God to be The Creator in you. Unleash. Hold nothing back. Be undeniably you. All of you. And see what happens.

Too many people live lonely and isolated lives. Some are isolated at home. Others feel lonely in their viewpoints at a time when shaming has become a sport on social media and TV; it can feel unsafe to share. Many are yearning for community, yet feel dissatisfied with their church communities. How can we help ourselves and each other live more connected lives? We can start by listening (to ourselves and others) in a new way.

How many consecutive days have you spent living in a human-made world without reconnecting with your first mother, Earth? Do not judge your answer; just notice. Give yourself time to pause and go outside. Be open to re-connecting with Mother Earth.

Experience the Bible story of the Woman at the Well (John 4:1-42) in a new light. Recognize this story as one that holds the longest-running conversation between Jesus and anyone in the Bible. I am having a new conversation with Jesus through this story. I invite you to be open to a new one as well.

Let Your God Love You is the title of a prayer by Edwina Gately and the inspiration behind one of my prayer practices. I invite you to let this beautiful phrase inspire you to connect with the gentleness of God.