A practice for finding God in the "ordinary time."
The Default Mode
Monday morning is where "notional assent" goes to die. We leave the "holy" atmosphere of Sunday and crash into emails, chores, and traffic. We feel like we've stepped out of God's presence and into the "real world." This dichotomy that we fall into, where God is in the pews but not the office, is the primary reason our spiritual lives feel inconsistent and hollow.
The Carmelite Shift
Today, your job is to be like the Magi. The holiday "pomp and circumstance" has faded, and you are back to the long walk. But remember: the star is still there.
Here is your practice for today: Practice the "Maintenance of Existence." Throughout the day, stop for ten seconds and acknowledge this theological reality: God is currently, actively willing you into existence. He is present to you by virtue of your very being. You don't need to "summon" Him; you need to "notice" Him. When you feel the weight of your Monday tasks, remind yourself: "I am walking by the starlight of faith towards Christ." You don't need the angelic choir today; you need to take the next step in the direction the star is pointing. The Incarnation actually happened; The Redeemer has arrived, even in your work.
The First Step to a Deeper Prayer Life
This is a small insight from my latest podcast episode. To listen to the full discussion and get your free "5-Minute Prayer Reset" guide to help you put these ideas into practice.
