Practicing The Way - Week 1

Where I've Been

Week One

Throughout Scripture, one of the most common commands to God’s people is to remember — to remember what he’s done for us personally and to remember what he has done throughout history. It’s important we remember because it’s easy to forget. Our brains are naturally wired toward negativity; some of us are more prone to thinking only of the situation we’re presently in.

Remembering is a discipline and an art form. It takes regularly recalling not only what has happened but also who God has been for us.

Yes, sometimes there are miracles and monuments that mark God’s more obvious interventions.
But there are continually little ones, too, like the

provision of food and clothing, a job we haven’t lost, and health we’ve taken for granted. These are all gifts of grace and proof of God’s active involvement in the important details of our lives.

There are also griefs and losses, too, that are important to remember. God isn’t afraid of our disappointments or hurts. He’s not threatened by our remembering them with him again and asking for his presence. Often, in remembering pain, we also see goodness with greater clarity.

In all things, what’s important is who God has been for us this past year. Has he listened, did
his joy sustain you, did his love deepen you, was he quiet in the room of your busy life, or was he knocking persistently on the door of your heart in some area large or small?

Honest remembering recalls God, and doing so prepares us for awakening in the present.

INHALE

Holy Spirit

EXHALE

Help me remember

Reflection

Look back over the year so far, working from month to month, and think of the highs and lows. What
events, lessons, or experiences stand out to you?

Ask the Spirit to highlight two or three memories. Who was God being to you in those moments?

If there’s anything left unsaid, or unresolved, be it gratitude and praise or doubt and disappointment,
take time to share them with God, leaving room for him to respond.