Today’s Author: Julene Hawkins
A dear friend of mine checked in with me recently and just as I was about to say, “Oh, I’m goo…”, she responded, “No, how are you really?”. The emphasis in the question made me hesitate for a minute. Was I good? Or did I have my default response already prepared before she even asked the question? Often, I am so quick to jump past the emotions and get straight to whatever comes next. Yet when I do that, I miss out on the opportunity for real connection both with my friend and myself. If there is anything I have learned throughout the last year, it has been how important honest connection is, for our own and community’s wellbeing.
Even if you are not in a place to open up to someone else right now, I challenge you to check in with yourself. Here is a breathing exercise to try this morning:
Deep Breathing Prayer
- Close your eyes or softly gaze at the floor.
- Slowly inhale through your nose.
- Now slowly exhale through your mouth.
- Repeat several times. Notice the stillness you are experiencing.
- Select a word that expresses what you need from yourself, such as “Patience”, “Focus,” “Help,” or “Calm.” Say this word each time you breathe in. Allow yourself to receive this gift.
- Select a word that expresses your frustration or struggle, such as: “Anger,” “Fear,” “Disappointment.” Say this word each time you breathe out. Allow yourself to let go of this pressure.
- Repeat the above steps several times. Allow the breath of life to nourish you.
- When you are ready, return to your tasks and breathe a prayer for those around you.
God, this morning we pray for a moment of quiet in the chaos. Allow us to sit with you for a minute and just breathe. Pour gratitude into our hearts for all that we have, instead of worrying about all we do not have and all that needs to be done. Be with us in the stillness and allow us to feel the Holy Spirit fill us with each new breath of life. In your name, we pray. Amen.
“Mid-week devotions are authored by members of our community. If you are interested in creating a trio of reflections to be shared on an upcoming Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday contact Pastor Peter.“