Heart Prep

Recently I spent 48 hours at Well of Mercy, a beautiful retreat center in Hamptonville, NC. Someone asked me before I went what I was hoping to gain from the time away with God, and I shared that I was doing my best to arrive without expectations. This was simply precious time to set aside to enjoy the quiet connection with our Divine Creator.

One of the things I love about Well of Mercy is the majestic scenery and nature. Despite the freezing temperatures, I ventured on a walk along the Prayer Path they created for voyagers like me. At one point along the path, there is a bridge that extends over a running creek, and I paused, soaking in the scene momentarily from both sides of the bridge.

As I watched the water flow away from me, I prayed for wisdom for all the things I currently need to release from my life, and imagined those burdens flowing downstream. I allowed the water to carry away my fears, unrealistic expectations, and forgiveness I was withholding. I released the weight of worry and the burden of regrets. My shoulders lightened as I unloaded what was holding me back.

Then, I turned and observed the creek from the other side of the bridge.

The water was now flowing toward me, as I took some time to pray. I recognized the incredible blessings God has sent my way and imagined the ones to come this year. It was a tender moment of praise and gratitude as I paused to consider the fact that I’ve received more blessings than I could count. I realized this water has been flowing even far before my recognition, just as my blessings have.

The beauty is that even now, as I sit at my desk in my home, I know that water is still flowing. I don’t know exactly when God created that particular creek, but it’s an image of His endless blessings, goodness, and faithfulness.

I share this precious, personal experience with you because I want to invite you into it. Allow me to guide you into a moment of quiet contemplation:

• Get into a comfortable position, and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Take a few deep, cleansing breaths. Imagine walking down a rocky, leaf-covered trail. Feel your steps, hear the ground crunch beneath you as you stroll. Listen to the quiet of nature around you: the birds singing, the creek water trickling. Feel the cold, January air awaken your cheeks and fill your lungs. Smell the fresh scent of earth.
  

• The path curves you around toward a bridge that covers the flowing creek. As you step onto the bridge, imagine walking over the side where the water is flowing away from you. Taking another deep breath, pause, and pray for the wisdom and courage to release the burdens God doesn’t intend for you to carry.
  

• Take a moment to journal your thoughts.

  
  

• Once you feel lighter, imagine turning to the other side of the bridge. Look out over the water that is flowing toward you. See it navigating a path over rocks and earth. What blessings do you feel God wanting to share with you? It’s okay if this doesn’t come easily for you. Take your time and keep asking what God wants you to receive.

  
  

• Pause again to journal about what is happening in your mind and heart.

  
  

Beautiful friend, I pray that this can become a continued practice for us this year. I pray that God meets you right where you are and reveals just what you need. I believe He is big enough and loving enough to do so with each and every one of us.