As we enter into December and the beginning of the Advent season, I’d like to share a few more ideas for new spiritual practices as suggested by my colleague in ministry, the Rev. Linda Kurtz, who serves at the First Presbyterian Church of Lexington, Kentucky. As we prepare the way of the Lord, whose incarnation we celebrate at Christmas, I invite you to consider changing up the way you pray and seeing if one of these practices might enrich your conversation with God.
Watch a Movie
Watch a movie (or TV show). Seriously! But while you watch, be thinking about how you see faith in action. How do the film’s themes or characters’ actions align with your own beliefs? How or where do you see God at work?
You might choose a film or show with overt religiosity, like “The Two Popes” (on Netflix), “The Prince of Egypt” (Hulu and Amazon Prime Video), or “The Good Place” (Netflix and Hulu). You could also choose something not obviously religious and see how the Spirit opens your imagination. (Hint: “Wonder Woman” might not seem religious, but it has major religious tones you can’t miss — especially near the end!)
Use Time Soulfully
Keep track of your activities and the approximate time you give them. At the end of the day (or tomorrow), look back on your time keeping. On what did you spend the most time? The least? What does that communicate about your priorities — at least that day? What adjustments could you make to use your time more soulfully?
List God Sightings
Where have you seen God at work in your life and the world lately? Today, make a list of 5 God sightings. You can limit yourself to the past week, month, or whatever timeline feels best. Perhaps you experienced God when a friend called you recently. Perhaps you felt God during a walk outside. Spend some time reflecting and making your list. When you are done, give thanks to God for God’s everlasting commitment to God’s people.
List God Sightings Appreciate God’s Creation
Today, get completely out of this world by looking at NASA’s astronomy picture of the day. Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
God’s creation is so much bigger than any one of us, and even our planet. Look at the photo, read the explanation, and consider what the photo tells you about God.