When we read about a great saint’s experiences with God it’s tempting to compare ourselves negatively. Here’s the help you need to stay out of shame and glean all the good that can come from a classic of Christian devotion.
Ignatius’ ancient approach of visualizing ourselves in a Gospel story helps us to actually experience and feel God’s grace — and then to live it out in our work and ministry.
As you may recall, for Lent I gave up judging others. Needless to say, it’s a grace-work in progress! Recently I was taking a prayer walk on the path around the lake and meditating on Jesus’ words “Do not judge…” Then I noticed a man in his late 20’s striding my way with bravado. I…
What do you do when you’re at a crossroads and don’t know which way to go? I find myself there. It’s been quite emotional. Excitement and fear mingle. Pressure mounts and tears flow. The ministry of Soul Shepherding continues to grow and Bill and I find that our plates are overflowing, even with more helpers.…
Recently I was trail running in the hills during a private retreat at the Prince of Peace monastery. It was a beautiful day and I felt so alive and free as I was running with Jesus. Little did I know that I had brushed up against poison oak! A few days later the urushiol oil…
Some Christians are afraid of seeking to use their imagination for personal or spiritual help because they associate it with Eastern religions, secular psychology, hypnosis, or “New Age” philosophy. But there is a Biblical meditation. God has created human beings with the ability to imagine and the Bible is full of positive images and pictures…
Recently I was having tooth pain and needed dental work. Many people have a fear of the dentist. It’s no wonder why. Our teeth and gums are super sensitive to pain. We sit down in the chair and then the doctor comes in behind us and picks up a knife or a drill! (Of course, dentists…
What is Biblical meditation? Here are some key Bible verses on imagination and examples of Biblical meditation techniques for counseling, spiritual direction, small groups, soul care, prayer, and Christian discipleship.
In an hour of solitude this morning I was praying for God to help me love someone who I’ve felt hurt by. This has been a wrestling for many months. Jesus teaches us, “Bless those who curse you… Give to those who ask of you… Be merciful [with others] just as your Father is merciful…
Sadly, many people rarely read the Bible. For others Bible reading is a task to complete. Here are 4 uncommon and powerful ways to read the Bible!