My morning walk with my dog is a sacred element to my daily routine. The active steps in nature, focused without the distractions of technology, and the time to reflect upon my day ahead frees me to begin each day as refreshed and focused as I can be. I’ve read enough on mindfulness to understand, and appreciate, how healthy this ritual is for me, from both a physical and spiritual perspective.
Yesterday, as my dog Bingo politely nudged me with her nose each time she wanted a treat, I was struck by the reminder of how frequently God also nudges me to make me aware of God’s presence. Of course, I know Bingo is there, walking alongside me…yet even throughout our walk I can become distracted by my own thoughts, the music I am listening to, or even that which is right in front of me.
Perhaps my Lenten invitation is to pay more attention to these gentle nudges from God, especially throughout the ups and downs of my life. How can we recognize God’s presence alongside us, amidst the distractions and everyday realities? Hopefully this below quote from The Gift of Peace will assist us; I’ve enjoyed reading these reflections this week. Blessings on your week ahead!
When the hand of God’s purpose enters my life, however, it is usually not from the front, as I have always expected, but from the side, in murmurs and whispers that not only surprise but soon empty me beyond anything I could imagine. -Joseph Cardinal Bernardin
Keeping the Faith 