Beckoned

I’ve been on vacation for the past ten days, working limited hours yesterday and today. Tomorrow, I’ll return to our typical, busy schedule.

So, today, I just wanted to do a few things I rarely or never have an opportunity to do. Of course, I started with a trip to our local Whole Foods store. A few items off of the Paleo bar and a lemon cayenne probiotic drink later, I began the process of sorting out where to hang out. My go-to would be our art museum, but they’re closed on Mondays.

Then, it hit me. Hard. With a lump-in-my-throat conviction, I was beckoned to the prayer labyrinth of a sister-church in town.

The garden setting was beautiful: well kept, smartly designed and effective in its spiritual purpose. I was alone, but keenly aware of the noisy birds, buzzing bees and frisky little squirrels all around me.

The walk itself felt both measured and free. I used the patterns to alternate my speaking and my listening. I really wanted only to listen upon arrival, but found my heart bursting with thoughts and feelings to share. My heart cried literally and figuratively. Arriving in the center of the design, I was humbled and grateful in my spirit, eager to hear my God speak.

As I made room for listening, there was much being said. Much to ponder. Much to remember and much to compel me as I unwound my path toward the exit.

This particular prayer labyrinth is located on the grounds of Millbrook Baptist Church in Raleigh.

If you’re local, I encourage you to make a visit. If not, I encourage you to seek a location that may exist where you live. Regardless of whether you choose to use such a tool to guide you through the spiritual discipline of prayer, I encourage you to allow time to speak and to listen as a regular pattern in your prayer life.

Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love,

for in you I trust.
Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.

– Psalm 143:8

Sandy is the Associate Pastor for the congregation of Heritage Baptist Church in Wake Forest, NC. They meet for worship on Sunday mornings at 10:30 in an outdoor pavilion at 12120 Wake Union Church Road.

Author: ssalvin

Mother of 3, grandmother of 2; Executive Administrator by day, associate pastor by calling, worship leader by heart, singer, songwriter, blogger ... these are the hats I wear. Who I am is a woman "becoming". I appreciate the transformation process that God graciously allows us to experience and gratefully receive it! View all posts by ssalvin