Each day comes to me with both hands full of possibilities. ~Helen Keller
Picture this: The volume button for your inner voice is turned off, your mind dust has settled, and your resting pulse rate is at an all time low. Your hands are empty, open, and facing the ceiling.
Not a common state for anyone to be in these days.
Sitting still has become a rarity as we rush about our lives, every hour weighted with our seemingly endless doings. Moreover, if our hands are facing up, we are most likely embracing an electronic device, engrossed in up-to-the-minute happenings.
I am the first to admit to such foibles.
But something within keeps nudging me to seek stillness in the midst of this noisy world. In my attempt to be more receptive to God’s promptings, I continually make time for contemplative prayer. Such a luxurious indulgence, sitting quietly with Him.
These treasured moments restore my internal settings, defragmenting my scattered mind. I face the remainder of the day feeling expanded, able to enjoy the simplest tasks.
In Jan Johnson’s book, When The Soul Listens (which I highly recommend), she discusses the “palms up, palms down” method of centering, described by Richard Foster.
You begin by placing your palms down as a symbolic desire to turn over any concerns you may have to God. Whatever it is that weighs on your mind or is a concern to you, just say, “Palms down”. Release it. After several moments of surrender, turn your palms up as a symbol of your desire to receive from the Lord.
This is your opportunity to ask God for His grace and assistance with the concerns of your heart, large or small.
There are alternate ways to enter into contemplative prayer; some use a simple word or phrase to help turn their minds toward God, silently repeating it when distraction occurs.
Whatever the method of choice, God appreciates your efforts.
I encourage you to open your hands to Him. Treat yourself to some alone time with The One who so desires your company. Share your deepest concerns and fondest desires.
Enjoy the sublime silence, and the soul-filling peace.
Listen for God’s voice. His gentle murmurings help you see more clearly.
And they might begin to change the topography of your heart.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. ~Hebrews 12:12-13
beWARM 
Thanks Toni – I see you were up in the wee hours of this morning……and with your palms up – receiving such beautiful encouraging words to share with us…….so glad you could join us and thank you for all your help in the kitchen!! Blessings for the rest of your week as you prepare to leave – anything I can do to help you, please let me know, ANYTHING!!
Thank you, Di for yesterday, and for your encouragement. I love working alongside you – wherever and whatever we are doing together. It is all for Him…
Palms up – ummmm, a really good thing to do while riding in a car! Especially on long trips, say, to the Pacific Northwest…..
I’ll miss you so, but know we’re always connected, through all the technology, but best of all in His love……..
You’ll be daily in my heart, dear one………