I've looked up at this [these] beautiful window[s] and have seen the sun filtering through them for more than a decade now. What I am just now realizing is that window is comprised of a central "son" surrounded by 12. The 12 may look very much the same, but each one has defining characteristics that make it unique.
I take time to meditate on this window each Sunday, often during prayer. I'm particularly drawn to the interconnectedness of the design in the very center and how it represents our relationship to one another and to God.
This blog was designed as an online companion to a 2010 Lenten photography exhibit on display in the Gretchen Brigham Gallery of Union Avenue Christian Church (DOC). The photos, one for each day of Lent, are the work of six Union Avenue Christian photographers and represent their interpretations of the Lenten theme "Provisions for the Road to Life" -- reflecting on what we need to carry with us on the journey of life and faith.
The ancient Christian practice of Lectio Divina invites one to read and reread a passage of scripture numerous times in order to sink more deeply into what God's Spirit might have to say to us through the words and ideas. We encourage a similar approach for using these photos.
As you reflect on what they might have to say about your own journey through Lent and the life of faith, try this approach: 1) Remove all distractions and sit quietly for a moment, centering yourself and opening yourself to God's presence. 2) Begin looking at the image, slowly looking at the whole picture. 3) When a particular part of the image captures your attention, stay with it. Ponder what it means to you or what it might be saying about the journey of life and faith. Then allow yourself to see the whole image again, continuing the process of looking and stopping on whatever hooks your attention. Repeat this cycle as often as feels appropriate. 4) End your "reading" of the image and enter into a time of prayer as you share with God what you have seen. 5) As your prayer ends, enjoy a time of stillness. Listen for God's voice. Where might God be calling you on the road of faith in the days to come? 6) If you wish, leave a comment about your experience or interpretation of the image.
These guidelines adapted from Dr. Karen Tye, retired professor of Christian Education, Eden Theological Seminary (St. Louis).
2 comments:
I've looked up at this [these] beautiful window[s] and have seen the sun filtering through them for more than a decade now. What I am just now realizing is that window is comprised of a central "son" surrounded by 12. The 12 may look very much the same, but each one has defining characteristics that make it unique.
I take time to meditate on this window each Sunday, often during prayer. I'm particularly drawn to the interconnectedness of the design in the very center and how it represents our relationship to one another and to God.
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