The Necessity of Sacrifice
Exercise 1: Meditation on the Topsoil of Our Lives
This spiritual exercise is more of a meditation guided by imagery. Consider yourself in Springtime when seeds begin sprouting into new shapes of life. It has been a long time coming for these new shapes of life.
Breathe deeply and exhale and let each breath settle your heart, mind and body. Let your mind drop into your heart. Begin imagining with your mind in your heart.
See the seed coat that once protected and constrained you. It lies open and empty. Feel the thankfulness for how you were kept safe.
You can see the plant that is unfurling, roots going down and shoots going up slowly with great intention. Feel your roots taking hold and your shoots searching to break the surface of the topsoil.
Consider the topsoil. Consider what you need in the top soil for the new shape of life. Ask God who knows beginning and end…
What is cracking you open for this new Springtime?
What will nourish you in this new Spring
Ask for the things you need to trust and grow.
Displacing Toxic Success
Exercise 2: John 6:10-15 (Jesus feeds the five thousand)
“Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
“ When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
“After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.”
How do you see Jesus responding to the system of power? Have you ever found yourself facing other people’s expectations for your life? What informed your response?
Consider how that decision has influenced your life?