I taught a three day class at Chautauqua called, “Praying
with Paint, Paper, Pencil and Sand”.
Part of the class included sharing a way of praying developed by Sybil
MacBeth described in her book Praying in Color.
I heard her speak several years ago in Indianapolis.
Adapting her way of praying into my own style seemed natural since I like
art. I showed the class two framed
pictures of how I used color to pray. Giving
them homework for the next day was their challenge. I told them, I too, would complete the
assignment and together we could share our picture prayers the next day.
Spending time by the lake is peaceful for me so I starting
my prayer with a picture of the lake.I added two sailboats, which dot the lake
all summer, and a kayak that I rented for an hour. I finished the picture by painting a blue sky
above the water. I also wrote four words that came to me during my quiet time
of prayer.
Sharing our pictures of prayer the next day was inspiring,
as God spoke to each of us in different ways.
When I arrived home, I wrote the four words (Inviting,
Impromptu, Snippets and Holding) on long strips of paper and “framed” my picture
of the boats.
I plan to spend time reflecting on these words and the
picture wondering how God will use my “souvenirs” in the days ahead. Although
my scrapbook will only contain two photos, I will record my thoughts and
drawings.
Prayer: God, thank you for ways you give us to remember
vacations. Souvenirs come in many forms. Some we can savor and enjoy like maple
syrup and apple butter. Others, like words or pictures can be used for reflection
to process our time away. For whatever you give us we are grateful. Bless our souvenirs which remind us of your
goodness to us. Amen.
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