I pray…that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. ~Ephesians 3:16, 19
The Lenten 40, Day 12
We we describe something as “over the top”, it is most often in the superlative. Overly efficient, overly extravagant, overly attentive to detail – all terms that indicate a level of effort way beyond what is expected and customary.
Going overboard sometimes feels right – but it does take its toll in terms of energy level. And worst of all, it sets a precedent of a new normal; will people expect this forevermore?
We hear the phrase “less is more” so often. We are encouraged to pare down, simplify, minimalize. And our bulging cupboards and closets are clear indicators of our material overconsumption.
Today’s devotional speaks of emptying out – so that we can be filled with the Holy Spirit.
The math of spirituality involves subtraction rather than addition. ~Muyskens
Hmmm…what feelings or attitudes have I been hoarding that are impeding my spiritual growth? Who do I need to make peace with/forgive so that my heart can be soft and pliable again, ready for His shaping?
Muyskens writes further: Letting go of the desires of the false self frees us to let the transforming work of Christ take place in us. We will burn with love and faith, joy and hope as we receive the current of the spirit.
Can I really “run on empty”?
God promises that He alone can satisfy the longings of our souls.
Bring it on, Lord.
Today’s Lectio: Psalm 23
My Word: REFRESHES My Phrase: MY CUP OVERFLOWS
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In Arm’s Rest
I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother. ~Psalm 131:2
The Lenten 40, Day 13
Today the vision of God holding us in His arms accompanies our meditation time. Such a comforting image!
From the book: Contemplative prayer is resting silently in the loving arms of God. No words are needed to express this love. A mother may gently sing or speak to her baby, but she spends hours in silence simply holding the child who is content to be cradled in the mother’s arms. At times hunger or irritation gets expressed in a cry. But for many hours there is a silent communication of trust and intimacy.
Today, may you experience this peace and Presence beyond all imagination!
Today’s Lectio: Psalm 131
My Word: QUIETED My Phrase: PUT YOUR HOPE IN THE LORD
beWARM 
Thanks for the picture of a mother spending time in silence simply holding the child! What a lovely view of how I feel in God’s embrace! As I sit and think of Him I have a new picture of His love.