“We melt into the presence of God within. There the Great Silence of God becomes the central, major focus of our lives, the anchor of our hearts, the stabilizer that carries us through all the moments of life — with all the emotional upheavals that implies — on a straight and steady course directly to the heart of God.”

 ~ Joan Chittister, The Breath of the Soul

 

Hello friends,

 

How’s your breathing going?

 

This week, I earnestly shared with a pastor colleague that I felt like Lent was going on way too long this year (maybe you have felt the same). She agreed and shared that she had recently said the same thing to a non-clergy friend, who responded knowingly, “I think that’s the point.” Indeed! 6 weeks of focus, spiritual practices, and preparation can feel like a LOT… too much even. But it is this time especially, when we feel like we can’t continue – that God’s presence is made so real to us. We’re nearing the end of Lent – but not quite there yet!

 

What’s to come over the next 7 days is nothing if not a roller coaster of emotions. From the ‘Hosannas’ of Palm Sunday, to the humility and betrayal on Maundy Thursday, to the utter despair and darkness of Good Friday, to the holding-your-breath waiting of Holy Saturday. By the time Easter arrives, we will be ready for the steady hope of God’s promises. But for now, we need to keep breathing and stay prayerful through the roller coaster.

 

In this video, I lead several short guided breath prayers with a tactile component – beginning with “Roller Coaster Breathing”. These are great physical reminders of God’s presence in your own breath and body – and are great tools for those of us who are more tactile, for kids and elders, and all for all of us who benefit from getting out of our heads!

 

May your breath prayers anchor you this week and keep you steady and focused in encountering the heart of Jesus of Nazareth anew. Blessings on this Holy Week.

 

 

God is right here. Right Now.

 Deacon Nina

 

 

If you would like to share – please pass this message along to others who may want to join in daily prayer this Lent. It's never too late to start and the sign-up link is here. Participants receive guided practices, tips, and encouragement along the way.