Spiritual Practice for the City

For many folks, it is easy to see God’s fingerprints in nature. When you are outside, with air that is fresh, trees that stretch to the heavens, and the sky that bends above you, feeling the presence of God can be simply a matter of standing still. Surrounded by God’s creation, the holy can feel very near.

Many of us, however, spend most of our days in the midst of spaces that were made by cranes and construction crews. Even when we are outside, we may see the world through car windows or walk on asphalt. In the words of a Confirmand, it is harder to see God in things people made: while everything God made is good, things people and God made can have the good and bad mixed together. Add to that the hustle and worry, and our daily lives can feel very far from the wonder of God.

If seeing God in nature just requires standing still, it takes effort to develop an eye for seeing God in urban and suburban spaces. A colleague recently shared a suggestion of a spiritual practice for the city by looking for God in the piece of creation that exists in abundance: other people.

When surrounded by a crowd or watching folks walk by, really look at the people around you. Choose one person and as best as you can, look for the spirit of God in them. Try to see them at their most human: their love, their vulnerability, and their strength. Stay with one person until you can see a glimpse of God’s spirit in them. If you are on public transit, try to see God in those seated  around you. Standing in line, extend a vision of love to each person who is waiting. Open your heart to view the space around you as filled with the mystery and potential of God.

In whatever form, may you see God in the worlds in which you live this week. And may your heart be opened in compassion toward our blessed and broken companions on this journey of life.

Peace,

Lisa