Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
Journal: What things help you be more aware and attentive to the presence and
movement of God in your life? How often
do you practice those things? How can
you intentionally make them a part of your spiritual practice in a way that helps
you to better recognize God’s presence in your life?
Reflection:
As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself
came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
(Luke 24:15-16)
Never underestimate the value of
spiritual practice in life with God. We are not told exactly what kept
the disciples from being able to recognize Jesus. Maybe it was the chaos
of the last few days, maybe it was all that was swimming around in their hearts
and minds at the moment, or maybe it was something bigger than that. Who
knows? But we are told what helped them to finally realize who it was
that stood before them--the breaking of the bread. Spiritual Practice.
Spiritual practice is the
thing that keeps us rooted and attentive and aware. It keeps us awake and
alert and open to God, and whatever he might be up to at any given
moment. It is not an end in itself, but is a necessary means to a
beautiful end--union with the God who made us uniquely and loves us
dearly. Spiritual practice is not meant to manipulate, control, or
manufacture. It is merely something that makes space within us and among
us, so that when Jesus finally does come up and walk along with us, we
will actually be able to recognize him.
Yet somehow, given the
demands of this life, it is something that is easily pushed aside. And
when it is, it makes us less and less able to notice the One who walks among
us. That is probably why John Wesley once wrote: "O Begin!
Fix some part of every day for the private exercises. You may acquire the
taste which you have not: what is tedious at first will afterward be
pleasant. Whether you like it or not, read and pray daily. It is
for your life; there is no other way: else you will be a trifler all your
days."
Prayer
Closing
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to arrange our lives in
such a way that we constantly make space to hear your voice and see your
hand. Otherwise, we might walk through
this life unaware of the beautiful things you are doing within and among
us. Give us the grace not to miss
you. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment