There’s been quite a bit of change and transition in my life. A new job, and moving to southern New Mexico for my husband’s new pastoral appointment (moving a home with four creatives and their ‘stuff’ and two pianos in the summer is not optimal). I finally feel like I am catching my breath. One thing has kept me sane.
Prayer.
I had spinal decompression surgery in November. While I prepared for surgery, I knew that I needed a place to focus and pray, so I built a labyrinth in our backyard. Despite the pain I was in, I filled a Weck’s cup and started creating…one cup at a time.
Before and after surgery, I found comfort and strength in walking and praying. From giving thanks to crying out to God, this practice helped me deal with my emotions. In January, another surprise came our way when my husband was appointed to a church in Las Cruces.
I continued to pray. I prayed for the move, the church, and a job. I trusted God and prayed. And prayed and prayed some more. I put my trust in God, and my prayers were answered.
Prayer is not new for me, but the act of walking a labyrinth is a practice that grounds me. It brings me closer to God in a way I never imagined, so I did something…I got another tattoo.
Around the labyrinth image on my tattoo are words that fill me. My dear friend, and prolific writer and author, Dr. Dixil Rodriguez wrote, “Prayer is a necessity, air to thirsty lungs.” These words capture the essence of my faith journey, the role that prayer plays in my life, and the way it sustains me in times of need. I now wear these words for the world to see, a constant reminder of the power of prayer and the presence of God in my life.
This tattoo is a constant reminder that takes me back to not only the times when my prayers were answered, but also when the answers I received were not what I wanted. I also recall the times I prayed in the depths of depression, anxiety, and physical pain. I am transported to the moments of overwhelming loss and grief, yet still feeling the presence of the Creator.
For me, the labyrinth is a place to lay out not only my hopes and release my sorrows, but a place to celebrate and give thanks to the One who calls me Beloved.
Peace be with you.
Caz
Today I am thankful for:
- Sunday lunch
- Boxes
- Communion Sunday
- Working in hospice
- Labyrinths
