Exprayeriment #26 -- What's the Word?
If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. --John 15:7
In Exprayeriment #2, we introduced you to the practice of lectio divina, a powerful way of engaging with sacred texts and poetry by prayerfully focusing on a single word or phrase that shimmers for you. The word or words that speak to you may delight or challenge you, or both, but by sitting with them and resting into them, you invite the meaning to unfold, to deepen, and to meet you where you are.
Choosing a word or phrase for the year is like an extended lectio divina practice, an anchor for all your intentions, resolutions, hopes and dreams for the coming year. If you are open to letting your chosen word(s) guide and inform you, you will likely be surprised at how things evolve over the course of the year.
So how do you choose a word? Let the word choose you. Ask for God's help and then watch for themes that start to emerge, repeated messages to point you in the right direction. Remember, your word may be one that initially makes you bristle. Be willing to entertain all possibilities, and if you get an idea, try it out and see how it feels. Either it will start to feel more "right," or you will be guided to something new. There's no rush, and you can absolutely trust that you'll know when you know.
Earlier this week Alizabeth shared her word (well...two words). Next week Michele will reveal hers. And of course we would love to hear what words have chosen you, and why. Click here to log in and leave your comments!
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Be sure to stop by the Project You page to read Robin Dake's latest posts: Prayers on the Run and Searching for Epiphany.