You likely have words that immediately come to mind when you think of your faith or of prayer or of the Lord: love, spirit, grace, blessed, hope, rejoice, strength, comfort, peace, grateful, mercy, forgiveness, etc. When we take time to discern and focus on them, we find ourselves surrounded by wonderful words and images that draw us closer to God and His complete love for us. Not long ago, we reflected on praying with ‘key words’ to maybe help our focus while on our Lenten journey. These words and actions of faith are powerful and meaningful and can lead us to renewed places of spirit when we listen for them and live in them. I recently found myself unexpectedly adding to my ‘vocabulary of faith’ thanks to a gathering of over 30 people who graciously shared their faith experiences, inspired insights, and unique journeys. From their heartfelt reflections, I was strengthened, my spirit was enriched, and the ways to ‘say’ and ‘do’ my faith were enhanced.
A specific activity involving prayer and randomly selected letters led us to share words or phrases that could help make our hearts more like the heart of Jesus. Though the entire conversation was enlightening, here are the words that made a special impression on me and the contexts I took from them:
Courageous – When we are courageous in and with our faith, we can better stand alongside and assist those who are vulnerable. Whether they are hurting spiritually, socially, or physically, we are called to be their companions.
Bold – To be bolder in our faith is an invitation to stand firm and with strengthened hearts dismiss the temptation to turn away from what we know is right.
Solace – Regardless of the world or of our personal struggles, our solace in faith is knowing we are held by God. Our healing and peace come only through seeking Him in those times.
Touch – When we carry our cross, we feel it and hold it and acknowledge it. Simon helped Jesus with the burden of carrying His cross. There will be times when we are sent to help carry someone else’s cross; there will be times when someone will be sent to help us carry ours.
In conversation, in deed, and in prayer, let us always accompany one another – sharing our faith, enriching our spirit, and living the words and images that draw us closer to God.
“…that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” (Romans 1:12)
Journeying to Grace 