So often, at least in my experience, we cling so tightly to our plans, agendas, timelines, strategies, and deadlines. We easily become hyper-focused on a desired outcome. Anxiety, pressure, and bitterness creep in. And we begin to forget and overlook the movement and presence of God in our midst. We clench our fists and white-knuckle through, totally unaware of how God might be leading or what God might be up to.

It's been my experience over and over and over again, all throughout my life. And it is exhausting. Maybe you can relate?

One thing that has been helpful for me in this is what I call a spiritual practice of surprise. I've been trying it on for size for a couple years now, and it continues to be a practice that cultivates a lightness, a gentleness, a freedom, and a flexibility within me. It's led to an openness and a trust that isn't always easy, but that has been incredibly life-giving.

What does it look like? Listen in.

Gentle Me, Holy One by Ted Loder

Sign up for the Re{collection}

Learn more about spiritual direction

www.withjulianne.com