Music Info
The Poet
By Cheryl Ann Fulton
The Once and Future Harp | Magnatune
Script
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Stillness
As we begin this time of prayerful encounter with Jesus we ask for the grace to focus and be still. In your mind, put all your hopes and desires for this time in front of you, and any burdens or distractions behind you.
Focus on what is before you and breathe in the Spirit of God who desires to fill all your being.
Reflection
In the Gospels we see Peter learning through trial and much error to let go of his attachments. He was finally healed when he learned to accept his own inner poverty and the unshakable love that Jesus had for him, despite it all. We hear this in the Gospel of Luke…
Reading: Luke 5:4-11
In the Spiritual Exercises Ignatius writes that the most important qualities in someone seeking God are openness, generosity and courage. We ask God to draw us close to Jesus so that in every way we can seek to respond to the love which first created us and which now wraps us round with total care and concern.
There may be disordered attachments which prevent us from fully believing how much Jesus loves us and experiencing that love. This may be something we compulsively cling on to. But we may also carry deep wounds from our early life or from some traumatic experience. We may have learned to judge ourselves in an endless inner ‘chorus of disapproval’. Sometimes letting go of disordered attachments means finding the courage to accept healing for whatever is toxic and destructive in our lives, and learning to be more merciful with ourselves.
Conversation
Can you imagine the scene with Peter? Perhaps other encounters between him and Jesus come to you: walking on the water, refusing to have his feet washed, promising to die for Jesus and then denying him.
What do you think it was like for Peter to love Jesus so much and to keep failing him? How do you think he felt when Jesus kept loving him back?
Perhaps there is something you want to say now about your love for Jesus, or your need for healing. Open your heart to him and talk to him as a friend as we end this time of prayer.