Prayer for the fresh wonders of the summer era
Due to the pain of the jewel
Bible poems:
“He called him a small child, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Unless you change and become like a small child, you will never enter heaven. Therefore, whoever takes this low position on this child is the greatest in heaven. And anyone who welcomes one such child in my name will welcome me.” – Matthew 18:2-5
Listen or read:
I grew up in a small home in the countryside of Washington. Our 6 acre summer was a child’s delight. This was decades ago, and long before the information age began, parents assured us there were many options for outdoor entertainment. My dad made a swing hanging from a willow and apple tree. I enjoyed hula hoops, pogo sticks, roller skating and bikes. And even when I wasn’t spinning, jumping, rolling, or riding, I would simply lie down in the grass and look at the land of bumblebees with yellow dandelions. But one of my favorite things was riding my horse cornback. Approximately 4 acres of our property are pastures and I ran it completely. I climb onto the fence, get on, grab my mane, kick her side gently, and take off. We walked, ran, ran around the fields.
As I recall, I definitely describe my childhood playful attitude as a fresh wonder. Play came naturally at the time. Curiosity and wonder flourished in a world filled with nature. Unfortunately, as we get older and care for this world accumulates, it’s easy to track our playful inner child. You may have memories of your own childhood. So, here, during the middle of summer, I recommend taking a little time. When you feel free, playful and curious, whether you can find truly good, easy-going childhood memories. Spend some time with God in those memories and thank him for the gifts of the seasons of life.
Let’s borrow a bit of that innocence and borrow some of the carefree nature of the best parts of childhood and see if it can bring it to you on this summer day. Creativity, curiosity, wonder, play – all of these are dynamics we can still cultivate. With this attitude in mind, how does it look like planning a day or a holiday? There is a reason why Jesus challenged His followers to be like little children. Children’s humility is good. And I don’t think it’s stretch that adds to the things that bring a fresh sense of wonder for kids. Jesus wants us to have an open sense of His love and ways. He said, “Anyone who welcomes such a child in my name will welcome me.”
What would happen if the child was actually us? Borrowing from our childhood may be a new way to enter into Jesus’ love and care…
Let’s pray:
Jesus, you welcomed little children. And you are welcome to me. I want to be involved in the innocent and fresh wonders that once became very easy to access. Refresh that spirit in me. I think I usually miss it. Help us see your creation with fresh eyes. Avoid distractions. That way I can open up more fully to the goodness and grace of life you have given me. How can I play again and embrace creativity and curiosity? Free me from anything that blocks me or pushes me down. I want freedom in front of you, and I want fresh wonders to flow from within. thank you. Amen.
Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Piola666
Gem Fadling is Hurrided Living, Inc. is the founding partner of. This is a nonprofit that trains people to take a deeper break, more fulfilling and better leads. She is a trained spiritual director and a certified life coach who trains people at the intersection of spiritual leadership and soul care. GEM is the co-host of the relaxed living podcast and, like the author of Hold Thind Thinks and Couthor, what does your soul love? Her work appears in our daily bread with Propel Women. To connect with GEM and find resources for soul care and leadership, visit HolriedLiving.com or find her on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Pray through Psalm 15: Prayer to those who never shake up
Are you tired of being spiritually exhausted? You’ve come to the right place! Join us in the age of prayer, reflection and meditation. Put your day’s luggage behind you, refresh, update, and reconnect with God. Who is the one who never shakes you up? Explore poem sal 15 with today’s 10 minutes of devotion. If you like what you hear, you won’t miss an episode.
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