A Lenten Place of Rest
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, Jesus said to his disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31
Just as Jesus invited his disciples to step away from their daily lives in order to rest, so he invites us to step away today. In spaces of intimacy and rest we find comfort, empowerment, and direction for our life’s journey. Jesus meets us where we are with compassion and grace. He also gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit, the “Spirit of truth” which he promised to his followers. The world does not know the Spirit, but we, as Jesus’ followers, do: “But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14:16-17)
This is a profound gift, and we are invited to lean into it and drink deeply. As we do, we “become more continually aware of the presence, the person, and the power of the Risen Christ.” (Francis MacNutt, Christian Healing Ministries). The Spirit is a companion and advocate on our unique and complex spiritual journey, welling up within us and communicating God’s love to us. As ultimate creativity, truth, and love, the Spirit meets us in unexpected ways. If we carve out time to listen, we will recognize that voice, which also speaks through fellow believers.
On Saturday, March 30, the sanctuary will be open for an informal service of prayer and blessing from 9:30am-11:30am. Come as you are for any length of time. Bring your favorite devotional, Bible, journal, sketch pad, a pillow and/or blanket, or just yourself. Bring a friend. There will be quiet music, spaces of silence, and time for prayer and reflection. CCA’s healing team will impart words of encouragement and blessing as moved by the Spirit. The service will open with prayer and close with a final blessing. Come, rest, and receive.
~Laura Mitchell
