We are called not just to do but to be. In this season, we often feel the pressure to create perfection, yet the most profound act is to make space—space for God within us, space to nourish life. Like Mary, we are invited to a single-hearted focus, to be recollected in love. This isn’t about abandoning responsibility but reorienting our priorities. God doesn’t ask for our frantic efforts but for a willing openness—a sanctuary of peace, wholeness, and justice. When we create that space, we participate in something greater than ourselves. The gift of greatest efficacy and power that we can offer God and creation is not our skills, gifts, abilities, and possessions… but the recollected one, the bold virgin with a heart in love with God who makes a sanctuary of her life who delivers Christ who then delivers us. We don’t bring redemption through our busyness; we welcome it by our "yes," birthing the possibility of healing and transformation for the world.
May we become sanctuaries of love,
offering our recollected hearts to
deliver Christ’s healing and transformation to the world.
(inspired by Mark Longhurst, The Holy Ordinary; Loretta Ross-Gotta, Letters from the Holy Ground)
Our presence here is due to the gift economy, so we offer all writings freely to you. We depend on your good will and generosity so that we can share insights and build community. If you are inspired by this, you are invited to also give, to participate in “the Gift.” It only takes a moment. Our deepest gratitude to you for your Gift! (Transactions are securely processed via PayPal Charitable Giving Fund. All proceeds go to Contemplative Interbeing programs.)
You may also participate in this community and give in other ways: comment on posts, subscribe to our daily inspiration, like the Facebook page, browse the website, join the online community, ask me a question, or contact me to talk about something else, or to offer your gifts in another way. I look forward to getting to know you!