My word of the year
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Do you choose a word of the year?
My word this year has me a little apprehensive…🤔
STRETCH
The last few years, I've used the random word generator by Jen Fulwiler. I say a quick prayer to the Holy Spirit, then let Him choose which word I get.
Last year was HOSPITALITY which I really loved all the ways I could apply it to my personal and professional life. It felt challenging, but a little exciting.
This year…I'm not feeling so optimistic. Maybe it's just my pessimistic-self, but all I can imagine is all the change this could bring.
And I hate CHANGE.
Of course, whatever stretching and change that God has in mind for me, will be for my own good. We're meant to be always moving and changing - growing in holiness.
Padre Pio said:
In the spiritual life he who does not advance goes backward.
It happens as with a boat which always must go ahead.
If it stands still the wind will blow it back.
But maybe you're like me - it's easy and comfortable to stay in my well known, familiar spot! To keep chugging along at the same pace.
And it can feel overwhelming to think about growing in holiness when the duties of our vocations already take up so much of our time. And not just the duties, but fun stuff too!
Those things are important. And unless you're called to the religious life, we are not supposed to spend most of our day in prayer.
But if we really look at how we spend our time each day, surely we can find more moments to turn to Him.
It can be in little ways. It can be baby steps. It can be through more formal prayer, spiritual reading, or just an ongoing conversation with God throughout your day.
My encouragement for you this week is to find ONE WAY to pray more. Here's some ideas:
- read the daily bible readings (find these on the USCCB website)
- pray the Divine Mercy chaplet or another short chaplet/prayer before bed or first thing in the morning
- try turning to God as often as you think of it - when you get frustrated, say a quick prayer for that person; before a conversation, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words; while doing the dishes, listen to worship music or church hymns; at 3:00 (the hour of mercy), set an alarm to pray
Again - I suggest only picking ONE. You're much more likely to be successful if you to try to grow a little at a time (I know from experience!).
What was your word of the year? How are you going to try to pray more? Let me know in the comments!
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