Invitation to Reflection and Action
Finding Divine Presence in all Creation
This is part of Katherine Zappone's address to the Sisters' General Chapter of 2001:
'The Challenge here is to focus our spiritual intelligence towards imagining the real presence of divinity in our own lives, in our systems and structures and at the heart of the universe. . .
'Our times are characterized by a search for meaning that acknowledges Mystery within the earth and beyond the human. At the same time there is a resistance to God in the public arena.'
Reflection Points:
Mystics from all belief systems eventually come to an aspect of God which is simply unknowable Mystery.
Do you see a correlation between 'Mystery within the earth' and Divine Being?
The writer says that Divine Mystery exists in ways beyond the human. Where would you expect to find God - apart from in human beings?
Active Meditation
The John of God Sisters as 'faithful women participating in the liberating mission of Jesus', are mandated by their Chapter of 2001 - To nurture the holy in all creation.
The challenge here is for everyone who is on a quest for Divine Presence.
Where or how do you look for Divine Presence 'beyond the
human?'
How do you 'nurture the holy' in the place where you
live? . . . .
Action Points
Take a walk in the bush or by the sea. In a quiet moment bring to mind the God presence. Notice anything that goes against that .e.g. if there is rubbish there you could pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Read a book such as The Artist's Way (by Julia Cameron) and do some of the exercises she recommends. You may become aware of the divine being within you and learn the importance of nurturing your self.
Say a table prayer before you eat which acknowledges all that has happened to bring this food to your plate - the sun, the green leaves, the animals that were grown, the vegetables. Ponder the mystery, taste the food and give thanks.
The Devine presence Within You
Check how you are feeling now.
In the Christian tradition emotions, senses, feelings signify the
presence of God's Spirit within you: love, joy, kindness.
(St Paul's letter to the Galatians Chapter 5. verse 22)
You may like to make up an affirmation that will respect your emotions, thoughts and actions with regard to the holiness in all creation including your self.
Affirmations:
I live in the present moment and hold with reverence the place where I am.
I am an expression of divine love.
The things around me are expressions of God's presence and love.
I love God.
God loves me.
An affirmation can be a blessing, a meditation or both.
Meditation Method
Sit quietly and become aware of your breathing for a few moments. Allow your head to roll forward and concentrate on feelings of stillness, peace and acceptance. Imagine someone stands before you now - it could be your own wisdom figure or even an angel. Feel the sensation of warm healing hands upon your head. Let those hands represent what is the highest holiness for you.
Now quietly repeat your affirmation for 10-15 minutes. Sit quietly for 5 minutes afterwards and await any insights. When the time is right stop and give thanks. (After Zedenek M. The Right Brain Experience, London, Corgi Books 1985)
That might be a good place to stop for now.
