Tuesday, October 20, 2020
The Rev. Bob Stevens
Practice
When Rob invited me to write a reflection on practice I have to admit I was not immediately overwhelmed with insights that would translate into a good morning read. What are we talking about when we use the word?
Out of practice
It’s not my practice
The practice of medicine
This needs practice
Practice what you preach
Common uses of the word. But is there a commonality in them. They all have to do with movement/action. All have to do with activity that moves an idea or conviction into a new usually better place, but it is always action.
I am reminded of the book Rob referred to recently by Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God. Herein we see an intentional cultivation of a state of mind…a consciousness of God being present
How does that practice work for me? There have been times in my life where I began the day encountering some life defining thought that I have pasted on my shaving mirror. God is present. Most recently I begin the day reading the Reflections by the people of St Johns. God is conspicuously present.
Throughout the day I have been intentional in attempting to see God present in the people I encounter. This is easier said than done, but I have to admit I find God present as I practice this.
I could go on, but the point is this practice of awareness of the “Other” gives a godliness to the ordinary. “A frame of mind that flavors the whole of life’s experience”