I go on a long walk through the forest listening for the word calling to me. It is a form of lectio divina I practice where nature is the sacred text revealing holy wonders to my heart. I step further into the silence of trees and moss and ferns. The forest floor is covered with ferns, creation’s lush and extravagant gesture. At first I notice the large and mature ones with their wide leaves, but soon my gaze is called to tend to these tender shoots unfurling themselves. If I listen closely I can hear the quiet movements of a symphony rising, the steady rhythm of the forest breathing, the song of adoration whispered from outstretched branches.
Suddenly all I can see are a profusion of delicate green spirals each slowly revealing the grace of beginnings. I pause at each one bending down in an act of supplication. Each one calls me to unfurl into my life’s deepest desires. My heart quickens. I sing my own holy yes in response.
What is unfurling within you?
Christine Valters Paintner is a Spiritual Director and blogs at Abbeyofthearts.com
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