Hang onto what is good
In Paul’s earliest Letter to the Thessalonian church, he writes to them of his love and concern for these new believers and the difficulties they face in living out and defending their new faith. Though many of us are not new Christians, we also face times of discouragement and yearn to be comforted and reassured. And everyone wants to “hang onto what is good.”
In this time of surging cases of Covid-19 with the severe component of the new Delta variant, it is a challenge to stay ahead. “Here we go again” is a refrain I hear running through my head as we take steps to mitigate the virus. Yet, I do not want to despair. I want to be a part of the solution that lifts us up and carries us forward into healthier, happier times.
Consider using this scripture from the Bible 1 Thessalonians, chapter 5, versus 14 -21 as you enter into a time of meditation.
14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good.
Find a quiet space. Perhaps you might choose to go for a walk, draw or write in your favorite journal. Maybe you feel like bringing out some paints or chalk. Whatever it is and however you connect to the word of God is the place to be - allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. Trust your intuition, your body - what feels good for today?
You might ask yourself who has been an “encourager” to you and maybe write that person a note of gratitude. Or simply offer a prayer of thanksgiving for what that person has meant/means in your life. You might also consider someone that you could be an “encourager” to. Would a note of encouragement be a good idea?
We are God’s gift to each other. We can be a source of encouragement to one another. Sr. Macrina Wiedekehr calls God, “Encourager of the Morning.”
This excerpt was taken and adapted from a virtual silent retreat hosted by Retreat House Spirituality and led by Rev. Sherry Ward. Sherry is a trained spiritual director, pastor and part of the Retreat House Board of Directors. You can send her a note here.
Retreat Hosts a silent retreat each month on the first Wednesday from 10 a.m. - noon. Save the Date for our next silent retreat October 6. More details coming soon! Send us a note to reserve your spot.