I was able to slip away Monday for an overnight time of prayer and study at the Lindenwood Retreat Center in Plymouth. I go out there several times a year, usually just for the day. The thing I like about this place is that it's in the middle of nowhere, away from it all. It's actually the same place where Ancilla College is if you are aware of that school. The rooms there are spartan and plain, and the cell signal is weak, but that adds to the disconnected feeling. I like walking around the lake there…sounds strange, but I like prayer walking through the cemetery full of white grave stones…I like taking a moment to sit in their huge chapel (it's run and owned by a catholic group – the Poor Handmaiden's of Jesus Christ) and take in the grandeur of it all.
I find that when I get out of my regular routine (be it location or even eating!), it makes it easier for me to tune into God's voice as he speaks through prayer and the Bible. Author/Pastor Mark Batterson says it this way – A change in routine often results in revelation. In formulaic terms, change of pace + change of place = change of perspective. Agreed!
Fasting never gets easier for me! I love my food! BUT…I love even more the lasting effects of fasting. There is something powerful that happens after taking time to put food aside, and spend more time in prayer, thinking, Bible reading, etc. There is a new edge to my faith, a heightened awareness of God's presence as I go throughout my day. If you can push through the hunger, and the feeling that you don't want to drink one more bottled water, the results will be super-natural!
Thanks to all of you Pathway people who joined me this week in prayer and fasting! Would love to hear anything the Lord might have spoke to your heart as you prayed…
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