Tag / exercises

by Karen Twinem

Wait! Wait! Just Be There

Today’s version of waiting in line usually requires standing six feet away from the people in front of you. This makes lines seem longer, although we know they are just spaced out. This Christian mindfulness exercise helps us bring some space and calmness to our wait. We might even enjoy it.

Whenever we are waiting — in a line, in a car, in front of a computer screen — practice Christian mindfulness. Speak to the Lord and seek His presence. The Holy Spirit is standing in line with you, after all.

Notice what is around you. Who is there? Can you offer up a prayer from them? What do you hear and smell? Is there a cashier or service person who needs a word of encouragement when you get to the front of the line? wai

by Karen Twinem

Christian Mindfulness Practice: Flash Prayers

Developing the daily habit of offering up a sentence-long prayer at specific times is a common suggestion. Kenneth Boa and Jenny Abel, authors of the free-pdf “A Guide to Practicing God’s Presence,” call these “flash prayers” or “arrow prayers.”

Use your own Jesus prayer or one of these suggestions:

  • Come, Lord Jesus.
  • Holy Spirit, act through me.
  • I thank you in all things.
  • This is the day that you have made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.
  • May I love and serve you and others today.
  • I love you, Lord.

Of course, you can also write your own prayer. Just make it easy to memorize.

You can use this prayer at various times through the day. One way to remind yourself is to set a subtle alarm for times. Other times to use flash prayers include:

  • When you walk up
  • When you are about to eat
  • Before a meeting
  • Before making a call
  • Before sending or responding to a text
  • While waiting in line
  • At bedtime