Dear Caldwell,
In a world where it seems that everything is changed by the speed, complexity and technology of our times, one exception is prayer.
Sixth-century monk John Climacus said, “Prayer is a dialogue and union with God.” No app, no device, no fiber optic, no wifi required. We close our eyes (or not), settle our hearts and minds and, just like that, can be in “communion with God.” Wow!
Climacus also said prayer has the effect of “holding the world together.” Double wow. Some days the world seems to be coming apart (hurricanes and typhoons, nuclear arms and trade wars). On other days, what seems to be coming apart is a lot closer – our own lives, families, marriages and homes or our city and community. Prayer, the old monk says, can be the superglue that holds it together. Thanks be!
That gives us the “what” of prayer (dialogue with God) and the “how” (the power to hold the world together) and it makes me want to refocus on my prayer life.
That’s what we will do Sunday as Gail preaches on prayer as “what’s in our backpack.” Hope to see you there.
In other news:
- Speaking of spiritual practices: This Saturday, September 22, Pat Adams will lead a journaling workshop. We’ll try out three types: Morning Pages, a Healing Journal and one other. 9:30 am to 12 noon. at 24/7. Journaling done as a spiritual practice can reveal your truer self, Pat says.
- Please remember to bring a card, gift or just a hug for Sally Herlong, as we celebrate her with a light-lunch reception after worship Sunday.
- The Congregational Meeting to elect three members to serve on the elder nominating committee has been rescheduled for the close of worship Sunday.
Watch for a complete update Saturday in Caldwell This Week.
In Christ,
John