Monday, April 28, 2008

Dearest God,

For a period of time my home will become a retreat center, a place of intentional sacred living. I have already decided its name - House of Blessing. I intend to move from room to room to offer a prayer of blessing for each room. I want to pray at the threshold of my entryway for each person who will step through the door. I want my home to become a place of transformation, a safe haven where persons will open themselves to the transformative power of your living spirit.

The thought of this "becoming" for persons and for my home gives me a sense of inner joy. My home will become mainly a place of silence where your voice will have space to speak. Opening myself to this way of living will keep your spirit on the forefront of my mind where I will reckon with the fact that you are present.

I intend to place objects of your affection in each room, a symbol of your presence, a book, a blessing bowl, a communion chalice, angel cards, items that will stretch the spiritual imagination. I will offer simple exercises to guide seekers along their pilgrim path toward deeper faith and spiritual enlightenment. Time to sit, rest, or walk through the contemplative garden will offer opportunity to drink in your spirit, to let go of unnecessary anxiety or worry. A hammock under the River Birch trees will provide space to rest, reflect and contemplate.

As I wander through my home, I will acknowledge the gift of your blessed presence. I will offer my own prayers of thanksgiving and petition for all who will come. I will help to soften the hardships persons carry within them. I will aid in strengthening faith that will become larger than a simple spot in the heart and mind. I will enter into a season of preparation in order to help facilitate the gentle activity of your spirit. I will listen to your spirit as I engage this new opportunity to walk with you and others.

A spiritual mentor told me in 1989 that someday I would have my own retreat center. I just remembered that the other day after I had decided to open my home to pilgrims. I wonder what it all means.

I know
this is a work
of your spirit.
I know
that you have
a plan.
I know.
Guide me
in your way.
Guide me
in my home.
Guide me
in my leading.
Guide me,
O God,
O Christ,
O Spirit,
guide me
in love.

I live to bless you, Andrea