Most people familiar with Scripture know that Jesus taught us to pray. We pray “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…” and so on. But there are times in my life and days in my life that I so want to see Him right in front of me face to face. Days that I am filled with apprehension or worry or just feeling a little bit off. I guess I could compare it to exchanging emails or texts with someone compared to going for a walk with that same person or sitting down together in person over a cup of coffee or tea.
I am kind of heart-based or emotion-based sometimes. Sometimes I am intellect based and analyze things. On the days that I am kind or run or steered by my emotions a few things happen. Some of the days I am super-joyous and lighthearted. Other days I feel a bit teary and untethered. I feel a little scared. Not pessimistic and depressed, but a little too free-floating. Especially on days like that I need tranquility…a magnificent or inspiring space or place in order to really talk it out with God. Sometimes a photograph of a place like that will help my little heart. Here is a photograph that really fits the bill for me today. It is the church my cousin Danny and his wife Dana got married in. I didn’t get to be there for it, but this is a photo from inside the church. It is so spectacular. Yes, looking at it draws me closer to God. If you are having that kind of day, too, perhaps it will help you as well. Notice in the first row of pews on the right there is a sign that says reserved. Yes! God is waiting for each of us and He has a place reserved just for us. :-). How lovely.
Believe Anyway 
Love the picture! While you’re looking at it, think of your breathing–in and out–softly and dependably. That is how close God is in prayer. Paul talked about “praying without ceasing” and I think that is what he meant, to hold God that mindful and that natural all at once. When I am all over the place it is soooo hard to do that. You’re right– pictures help! Then I concentrate on breathing. Next thing I know the whirl of the world is slowing to the pace I need. Then even if I can’t articulate what I want God to hear, I know he can hear me anyway.
Yes. I was on a retreat one time and one of the team members had us close our eyes and led us in ‘prayerful breathing with guided imagery’. It was such a peaceful time…
Lovely photo, Kate. Have you ever seen an open air church in the midst of a forest? I have some pictures of one. I’m trying to find them and maybe blog them.
No i never have—I bet that is incredibly beautiful! I would really love to see those photos and reading your blog about them, dear auntyuta