Can I really be silent?

Tonight I went to the first class in a series offered at my church called "The Dicipline of Silence." I wanted o first take the class to strengthen my prayer life, and yet I still did not get around to registering. That all changed yesterday when as I referred the class to a friend, who has also having issues in his prayer life. We both were registered in a few minutes. I guess once again I'm being selfish by getting a friend to go so that I will attend.

The class was really a nice change from the norm. There were only 9 or so people, but the discussion and prayer time became very intense. It was obvious that God was working in the room.

Tonight we did what is called a Centering Prayer. Which was a very intense experience for me. I began thinking of a word to describe God. My word was Joy because of the positive things that I have seen God doing the last week in my life. i.e. My New Job!!!

From there after about two minutes of contemplation you basically go with your next feeling and change your word or phrase. I began to contemplate my parents and ended up with the phrase "Support Mom." After contemplating this for a few minutes I was asked to imagine a picture in my mind and I was brought back to family dinners when I was a kid. Which brought me back to Joy!

Now I have to say that emotions were rampant during this time. I felt very happy during the first part, then cried when I thought about supporting my Mom. Happiness returned in the end when thinking about my family.

In the end, I was amazed at a lot of the things that other people experienced as well. I have committed to ten minutes of silent prayer each day. It's going to be hard. I just completed my first ten and it seemed like an hour! I also know it will be worth it.

Psalms 40:1 NKJV
I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry.

Lord,

Thanks you for giving me the experience I had this evening. I know this is going to be a big change for me. Be with me and help me to grow in you. I will wait....

Brie!