MEDITATION:
Written by Evelyn Underhill (1875-1941), an English writer and pacifist known for her works on religion and spiritual practice. This is an excerpt from her book “Concerning the Inner Life.”
There are two movements that must be plainly present in every complete spiritual life. The energy of its prayer must be directed on the one hand towards God, and on the other toward [people]. The first movement embraces the whole range of spiritual communion between the soul and God; in it we turn toward Divine Reality in adoration, bathing, so to speak, our souls in the Eternal Light. In the second we return, with the added peace and energy thus gained, to the natural world; there to do spiritual work for and with God for [others]. Thus prayer, like the whole of the inner life, “swings between the unseen and the seen.” Now both these movements are of course necessary in all Christians, but the point is that the second will only be well done where the first has the central place. The deepening of the soul’s unseen attachments must precede, in order that it may safeguard, the outward swing towards the world.
PRAYER:
Written by Ken Boa, a contemporary teacher, writer, speaker, and President of Reflections Ministries.
Heavenly Father, You have chosen me to obey Jesus Christ by the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. In Christ, You have granted me everything we need to manifest the fullness of life that is empowered by Your indwelling Spirit. I know that it is impossible to live out the spiritual life in my own resources and power and that only as I abide in Jesus and walk by the Spirit is it possible for me to display a life of godliness and righteousness. As I live by the Spirit, may I bear the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. May I be strengthened with power through Your indwelling Spirit so that I can live a life that will be pleasing to You and edifying to others. May the love of Christ overflow in my thoughts, words, and deeds this very day. Amen.
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