Foreboding Joy

When words fail us or circumstances make it hard to know how to pray, we can simplify and trust that even a single word can express what needs to be expressed and help us connect to God and the larger story of what is going on in this moment. 

Today, we begin a new series on prayer. What does it mean to pray? How do we pray? What do you do when you can't find the words to pray? 

A line single line from a Mary Oliver poem has left me thinking about how small I try to make joy, so as to hold off on a foreboding sense of what can be lost. How do we stay present to joy when it feels risky? 

More than a month into staying at home, how are you staying present in ways that don't involve problem-solving and strategizing and critical thinking? Today, stay present by getting out of your mind and into your body, moving away from the rational brain and into what is happening in and around you. 

How Mary Magdalene shows us what it means to trust and hope when we can't find any concrete reason to do so. 

A practice to help you stay aware of and connected to God's presence, especially when you feel disconnected from the Divine, important relationships, and a sense of community. 

Today, we read the Mary Oliver Poem, "I Worried" and reflect on Jesus' encouragement to not worry about tomorrow by staying present to the birds of the air and the flowers of the field. 

Today we reflect on "The Welcoming Prayer" by Mary Mrozowski. It is an invitation to welcome, to let go, and to find the love and presence of God. 

Present is an impromptu podcast with the aim of helping us all slow down, reflect and choose each moment as we navigate life during a global pandemic.

Present is an impromptu podcast with the aim of helping us all slow down, reflect and choose each moment as we navigate life during a global pandemic.