Since The Well started, rest has been an important part of our rhythm of life. Each 5th Sunday, instead of hosting a gathering, we invite everyone to receive the gift of rest. Rest no doubt looks different for each of us. As you set aside work, it may look like taking a stroll alone or enjoying leisure time with loved ones or listening to music or reconnecting with a hobby. It may look like a morning at the beach or a really long nap or *reflecting on the year that is drawing to a close. Whatever it is, we pray you experience a real rest & we look forward to being together again next Sunday.
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*This “Year-End Examen” offers some questions for reflection - move through them all or choose a few that speak to you:
Find a place where you can focus, listen & sit quietly. Take a few minutes to become present to yourself & to the Spirit. Take a few deep breaths. Take a few minutes to mentally pass through each month of 2024, remembering the needs that have been met, the experiences that have been shared, the hope, joy, peace & patience that have sustained you. As things come to mind, give thanks. Name & write/journal these reflections:
Things, experiences & people I have loved & enjoyed this year:
These influences have shaped my life (persons, transitions, books, events, etc.):
These convictions I have lived by:
These *insights I have gained in the school of life this year: (*insights into yourself, God, the world, human nature, Jesus, love, religion, prayer, etc.)
These risks I have taken:
These sufferings I have passed through:
These scripture texts/stories/words/images have lit my path:
These things I regret about this year:
These are my unfulfilled hopes & desires:
Sit with these reflections. Ask the Spirit to reveal any ways God has been particularly present, moving &/or creating this year. Does a theme, a word or an image come to mind? Does there seem to be something God may be inviting you deeper into as you move into 2025? Is there a path unfolding?
As you look toward the upcoming year, consider:
A word I want to live into this year is…
A habit, attitude, path or way of being in the world I want to embrace more fully is…