Day 6. Wait Is a Four-Letter Word.
Zoanna expresses difficulty embracing Advent while waiting in everyday life. She suggests that amid such pauses, reflecting on words like “Wait, Hope, Love, Rest” is enough.
Day 5. Haiku.
The Selah Center recently held a Poustinia, a Russian tradition of silent retreat for prayer and solitude, to prepare participants for Advent. This practice seeks to remove distractions and foster clearer communication with God. Wendy Bryant, one of the participants, shared her contemplative experience through a heartfelt prayer during the retreat. The center also followed the Revised Common Lectionary for daily scripture readings during Advent.
Day 4. Arrival.
Christopher Ball reflects on anticipation, endurance, and faith for Advent Day 3.
Day 3. A Sweet Treat for You.
The post explores the tradition and significance of Advent calendars that count down the days until Christmas. Originated by German Lutherans, these calendars have evolved to include devotional readings or small gifts. The author relives her childhood enthusiasm for Advent calendars through daily contemplative writings on the ‘Here & Now’ blog.
Day 2. A Season of Waiting.
Lorina Meade reflects on the importance of living in the present moment, particularly during Advent. She compares it to the Biblical manna, the daily sustenance provided by God, emphasizing the need to trust in God’s daily provisions while also anticipating the future. Meade encourages enjoying Christmas traditions and preparations as they happen, rather than rushing towards the main day, thereby capturing the essence of ‘nowness’.
Day 1. Advent Begins Today.
In her personal and spiritual journey, Karen Nelson navigates through grief and loneliness, finding solace in the Advent season. She explores how accepting grief can pave the way for joy and overall spiritual growth.
No Big Secret.
Contemplative writer, Karen Nelson shares a big secret with her readers in “No Big Secret.” Shh…it’s a secret.
Try Softer.
Cindy Waple shares this poem composed during the Selah Life Flow Retreat in Sedona, Arizona.
Easter. The Empty Tomb.
He is Risen.
Lent Day 39. Would I?
In this last week of Lent, here is a favorite poem of mine by Zoanna Pearson from Selah Center’s book: “Reflections: A Journey through Lent into Easter.” Lent Day 39.
Lent Day 36. Thank You for Being a Friend.
Today Sammi McCubbins shares her reflections on the importance of friends and what Jesus says about friendship. This is Lent Day 36.