Jones Park, Colorado
The hike to Jones Park is a long and difficult climb (and getting more difficult with my creaking bones). Reaching this aspen grove is not for cowards. Yet no matter the time of year, you will be rewarded by the kiss of God upon this special part of his creation.
Lent is a journey inward and it too is not for cowards. Richard Foster, in his book, Prayer: Finding the Hearts True Home, identifies seven prayers that drive us inward. These prayers are reflected in our Lenten journey: The Prayer of the Forsaken, The Prayer of Tears and The Prayer of Relinquishment to name three.
"And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, 'My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.'" Matthew 26:39 English Standard Version
Jesus was driven inward by the call of the cross.
His inward prayer turned upward when he called out, "not as I will, but as you will." The Lenten journey is not meant to be glorified naval gazing but a journey up into the Father's arms, outstretched like the father of the prodigal son, ready to embrace his loved children.
Though the journey may be difficult, it is worth the trip.
Question for the Day: What do you see when you think about your heavenly Father stretching out his hands to welcome you into his arms?
Join the conversation at Praying With the Eyes on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/groups/173881749421231/
(Click on picture to enlarge.)
Text and Photographs ©Copyright 2012-14Douglas P. Brauner. ARR
Lent is a journey inward and it too is not for cowards. Richard Foster, in his book, Prayer: Finding the Hearts True Home, identifies seven prayers that drive us inward. These prayers are reflected in our Lenten journey: The Prayer of the Forsaken, The Prayer of Tears and The Prayer of Relinquishment to name three.
"And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, 'My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.'" Matthew 26:39 English Standard Version
Jesus was driven inward by the call of the cross.
His inward prayer turned upward when he called out, "not as I will, but as you will." The Lenten journey is not meant to be glorified naval gazing but a journey up into the Father's arms, outstretched like the father of the prodigal son, ready to embrace his loved children.
Though the journey may be difficult, it is worth the trip.
Question for the Day: What do you see when you think about your heavenly Father stretching out his hands to welcome you into his arms?
Join the conversation at Praying With the Eyes on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/groups/173881749421231/
(Click on picture to enlarge.)
Text and Photographs ©Copyright 2012-14
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