On our last day in Canada last year, hubby and I found an ideal spot on the Kananaskis River to watch rafters and kayakers manage a small waterfall. It proved to be one of the best, and cheapest, entertainment packages of the trip! The seasoned kayakers could row back into the surf and after they paddled like crazy they found the sweet spot where they could sit on top of the water and ride it out like a surfer. Then with one small error in paddle placement they would be spit out like a watermelon seed back into the turbulent swell. Not all of the kayakers were experienced however, and they struggled to make it out of the eddy.
After posting "The Well" it reminded me of the years I participated in a small group for Spiritual Formation. It was quite a challenge for me. There were hard questions asked, feelings explored, and participation was expected. I couldn't stay quiet as my natural defenses dictate. I often felt out of my league, like the kayaker being held under the pounding surf and trying to find which direction is up to grab at seconds of pockets of air. It was a challenge, but I think those hours out of my comfort zone, the kind but firm insistence to participate, and the self-imposed anxiety also proved to be a gift. Creativity became my outlet, others found their own voice.
My prayer for the congregation?
Dear God, Following the model of Christ can be challenging. When we get tossed around by circumstances and distractions, help us to find the way back to you. We welcome those first, fresh, saving gasps of air when we realize that we are back in your presence. Like any kind of growth, there are no promises that it will be easy, in fact it rarely will be. Let us be aware and appreciate our growing pains and find our own voice in the process. Amen.
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