Over many years, I’ve been blessed to attend several enlightening retreats and days of prayer. While there, I’m very good about realizing themes, prayers, and ideas that move me and with taking notes on them. In the moment, I am so impacted by the wisdom shared, I have every intention of going back to those notes often and incorporating them into my spirituality. And I have done that…a little. For example, there is a specific poem I refer to whose words and strength moved me at a time when I was in a significant discernment process. Through an exercise at another retreat, I wrote the prayer, ‘Renew me, restore me, rescue me. You will let me hear gladness and joy’ which I pray frequently. During a multi-day retreat, I recall praying on the words ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid’ (Mt 14:27) as we reflected on Peter and the other disciples as they watched Jesus coming to them on the water. I continue to call on those words, so I can hear the peace Jesus offered them.
So, is that it? From those numerous spiritual encounters and notes, only three prayer memories stayed with me? After giving that some thought, I was disappointed. I know I grew in faith and understanding during those events, so why didn’t more of what I encountered continue to work in me? Then I experienced a re-discovery. I find the airplane is a good place and space to write or make notes, so I always make sure to include a notepad in my travel bag. On the plane, I found the pad I grabbed for my most recent trip still had notes from a day of prayer I attended almost five years ago, and it came back to me. I clearly remember the presenter who is now a good friend. I remember the beautiful day and being outside for individual prayer and reflection. I remember my right wrist was wrapped in a brace that day, so my handwritten notes are messy. And now, thanks to coming across these unexpected pages, the words that moved me, the voice I heard, and the message that spoke to my heart, found me once again:
- Our primary identity is as beloved children of God. We should be so aware of this, that we do not allow anything or any thought to come before it. As we look back on our day, where has God shown us that this is where—and only where—we need to be?
- God does not work in us through fear or anxiety. If we find ourselves engaged in these, let’s remember that they are not of God. We will not find Him there.
- Share in the work of Christ. Each of us, the beloved children of God, are missioned to share the love of the Gospel, the strength of the Spirit, and the peace of Christ.
These are themes we know, but I was renewed in them—on that day of prayer and again almost five years later. Are there retreat notes or a book or a scripture verse to reintroduce to your heart? Is there a prayer or reflection so meaningful to you, it’s time to pray with it again? What prayer memories can you re-discover, so you are strengthened and renewed in the love and grace of Christ?
Journeying to Grace 