My One Word for 2024: Savor
I received an email from Bishop Mark Chironna today on the blessing of silence and beholding. I want to share some of what he wrote because it describes a way we can practice savoring. It is in times of silence and beholding, we can truly savor our God and all He has done for us.
He writes:
Below are some prayers he shared to guide us in the practice of Silence, Stillness, and Beholding.
Embracing Sacred Silence
Heavenly Father,
We come before You seeking the sacred silence that draws us closer to Your heart. Quiet our tongues, still our bodies, calm our minds, and soothe our spirits. In the depths of this holy silence, may we hear Your voice and feel Your presence. Teach us to embrace this silence as a pathway to deeper communion with You. Amen.
The Gift of Stillness
Lord Jesus,
Grant us the gift of stillness amidst the chaos of our daily lives. Help us to find moments to pause, reflect, and rest in Your peace. In this stillness, let us become more aware of Your guiding hand and Your gentle whisper. May our hearts be attuned to Your will, and our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace. Amen.
Beholding God’s Glory
Holy Spirit,
Open our eyes to behold Your glory in all creation. Help us to see beyond the surface and perceive the profound truths You reveal. As we behold Your majesty, may our spirits be lifted and our faith deepened. Let this vision inspire us to live lives that honor and glorify You. Amen.
Finding God in Silence
Almighty God,
In the quiet moments of our lives, we seek to find You. Remove the distractions that keep us from fully experiencing Your presence. As we sit in silence, may we become more aware of Your nearness and Your unending love. Help us to cherish these moments of quiet as opportunities to connect with You more deeply. Amen.
The Power of Listening
Gracious Father,
Teach us the power of listening in the silence. May our ears be open to Your word and our hearts receptive to Your guidance. In the stillness, help us to discern Your voice above all others. Let our lives be a testament to the wisdom and direction we receive from You in these quiet times. Amen.
Transforming Stillness
Lord of Peace,
Transform our lives through the practice of stillness. As we pause to reflect and listen, may we be renewed and strengthened by Your presence. Let this stillness become a source of healing and transformation for our souls. Guide us to carry this peace into every aspect of our lives, influencing our actions and interactions. Amen.
Living in the Light of Beholding
Eternal God,
As we behold Your wonders, may we live in the light of Your presence. Fill our hearts with awe and gratitude for the beauty and majesty of Your creation. Let our beholding lead us to deeper worship and a more profound commitment to follow You. May we become vessels of Your love, shining Your light in a world that desperately needs Your grace. Amen.
3 comments
I’ll admit that I have a problem with silence. If it is too quiet, my mind wanders to my to-do list and the amount of coffee left in my cup.
How nice that the email from your bishop was so in tune with your word. Much to savor here in your post, Jodee. Thanks for linking up with us.
Jodee, I appreciate the call to savor and cultivate the “practice of Silence, Stillness, and Beholding.” ~Lisa, One Word #8