In this region, the daylight is growing shorter, and the temperatures are cooler. The chill in the air and the encroaching darkness remind us of the rhythm of nature, how our lives change, and how we respond to the world around us.
The Gift of Welcome
We were recently warmly welcomed with two housewarming gifts. One was bread, the other flowers. The gifts were beautiful reminders of God’s providential care and His unfolding creation.
In our prayer, we discover God’s care for us and His ongoing, loving creation of us.
God’s Spirit Within
We are especially aware of the Rosary Prayer in October. Grounded in Scripture, the Rosary’s rhythm of words opens us to insight. The prayer can help liberate us from our preoccupations and focus on timeless Mysteries. When we pray, we welcome God’s Spirit into our consciousness.
Abounding Grace
The Rosary is a proven path of prayer. Sometimes, we walk with purpose and follow the trail. Other times, we may feel drawn to leave the path and let the Spirit accompany our wandering. We may meander, strolling through the meadows and forests of our experience and recollection through all life’s seasons. Sometimes, our mind wanders during the Rosary. God’s grace abounds.
“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
- When our children were young, I hope our example taught them a foundation for prayer that was welcoming, free, nurturing, and resourceful.
- When we attended church as a family, I hope we taught about the transcendent dimension of our lives.
- When we kept reverent silence, I hope we taught that some of the most important work we accomplish is in our mind and heart in relationship with our Creator.
- When we walked together, I hope we taught life as a journey, a movement ever forward in union with the Lord and communion with all others we encounter.
- When, as parents, we made mistakes and asked our children’s forgiveness, I hope we taught the need for conversion and the freedom of mercy.
- When we buried their grandparents, I hope we taught how enduring hope consoles the grieving heart.
In all its varied forms, prayer surrounded and grounded life’s experiences.
Let us pray in hope, as parents and guardians, that we prepare our children to be drawn to a spiritual life, a meaningful life, and a gracious life.