The picture above comes from the lush rain-forest which is part of Olympia National Park. It is a magical sort of place filled with green in every imaginable shade. Nurtured by a steady rainfall coming off the Pacific Ocean, this wet spot is a vivid illustration of the Psalmist celebration of God's creative activity. New life abounds! In the arid climate of the Psalmist's homeland, rain was seen as a blessing. In times of drought, it was a long-awaited answer to prayer.

How might we celebrate the creative power of God in our life? When have we felt refreshed by waters of heavenly blessing? When have we seen with our eyes God's renewal and nurture?

Silent Prayer:

Find a comfortable place to sit. Set your phone or watch for eighteen minutes. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. As thoughts come to your mind – push them aside. Now is not the time. Trust in God to hold your life without needing to control it with our thoughts or actions. At the end of your time – say a simple “thank you” or “Amen.” Tomorrow, we will build on this spiritual practice by adding more time. Consider the time spent in silent prayer as an Advent gift – an opportunity to enter into God’s shalom/peace.

Today’s Silent Prayer Goal – Eighteen minutes

If the challenge of eighteen minutes of silence seems to be just too much, an alternative might be to continue with seven or eight minutes of daily, prayerful silence for the remainder of this Advent season. The length of time spent in silent prayer is not as important as the practice itself so give yourself the permission to do it for as long as works for you.

Scripture: Psalm 147:1, 8

Praise the Lord! How good it is to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.

He covers the heavens with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, makes grass grow on the hills.

Thank you for reading the eighteenth blog of this Advent series. If it was meaningful to you, please feel free to like it below or share it with your friends. You may also leave a comment. Blessings on the journey as we head through this season of Advent together. In Christ, Walt.