Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we head into the summer season, we find ourselves looking forward to a time of rest and refreshment. We seek peace within our souls after the hectic times of winter (especially here in the Northeast), and all of the busy-ness of the Easter season.
We look forward to the days when our calendar is not quite so filled and we can restore our bodies and our souls. Many of us experience what is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, the feeling of being blue and down during the months when there is not as much sun. Now is the time when our bodies will benefit from the increasing length and strength of
the sunlight. Do not neglect this, for your bodies need it. But we also need the time to refresh our souls as well. With our calendars not quite so full, we can spend much more quiet time with the Lord of heaven and earth. Many of us pray the Daily Office in
the Book of Common Prayer. This is a good practice. However, it seems a little confusing to some.
Might I suggest that you begin your daily prayer time by using the Form of Prayer to be used in Families (BCP, pp. 587ff). This provides a good focus for our prayers, both morning and evening. But take time after saying these prayers to open your hearts to the Lord. Share with God all of the struggles you are experiencing. Share with God all of the joys that are lifting you up. Share with God all of the needs or concerns that are on your heart, for
yourselves or for others who have asked for your prayers. When you do, you will find that strange things begin to happen. Some call them miracles, some, coincidences, some, the answer to your prayers. As you come closer to God with all your real life on a regular daily basis, you begin to find that He comes closer to you. As you open yourself to Him, you experience the reality of God filling you with His Spirit. What an amazing, glorious Lord we have!
Have a restful, joyous summer!
Your brother,
+Hendy Webb
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