Discernment for the Changing Seasons | Week Three
Possibility and Growth
This third week focuses on the early signs of new growth that we can witness during the season of Spring. Taking guidance from Celtic Spirituality, we notice the natural rhythms of the world around us - from the letting go that takes place in Autumn, to the waiting of Winter, and then to the new possibilities that begin to emerge in Spring.
Some reflection questions and a Psalm are included in this post.
In addition, an under-30-minute reflection video, including an exploration of how we can know what is life-giving for us, is available for Bless My Feet members.
Zoom Link for Tomorrow
Tomorrow, on Saturday the 18th of November at 7:30pm Ireland time, I will hold a free online gathering on Zoom, open to anyone on this list, to share where we are on our journeys, explore how we might discern our path, and listen for the invitation into what’s ahead for each of us. If it would be helpful to have some companionship as you explore the changes you’re sensing in your life these days, you would be very welcome.
We have a nice group signed up to come. You can join us by registering by through the button below.
Questions for Further Reflection
What new possibilities are beginning to emerge as you go through this process of discernment?
Are those possibilities life-giving, energizing, joy-bringing?
Are you being invited to grow into a new aspect of who you are?
Can you imagine God co-creating this next chapter with you?
Psalm
Psalm 1: “They are like the trees grown in flowing streams / Their leaves will not wither, their fruits are very sweet. In all that they do, they will flourish and thrive/ Their delight is in the love of God.” (paraphrased KYW)
“Their Delight” (Words: Kiran Young Wimberly paraphrase of Psalm 1, Tune: BánChnoic Eirann O, Irish trad.) https://www.celticpsalms.com/portfolio/their-delight-psalm-1/
O blessed are the ones who walk God’s way
Their delight is in the love of God
Who meditate by night, by day
Their delight is in the love of God
They are like the trees grown in flowing streams
Their leaves will not wither, their fruits are very sweet
In all that they do they will flourish and thrive
Their delight is in the love of God
O blessed are the ones who mourn and weep
Their delight is in the love of God
Who hunger for justice and thirst for peace
Their delight is in the love of God
They are like the trees grown in flowing streams
Their leaves will not wither, their fruits are very sweet
In all that they do they will flourish and thrive
Their delight is in the love of God
O blessed are the ones who speak with grace
Their delight is in the love of God
Who stand for what is true and right
Their delight is in the love of God
They are like the trees grown in flowing streams
Their leaves will not wither, their fruits are very sweet
In all that they do they will flourish and thrive
Their delight is in the love of God
Useful References and Resources
Liebert, Elizabeth. The Way of Discernment: Spiritual Practices for Decision Making. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008.
Bieber, Nancy. Decision Making and Spiritual Discernment: The Sacred Art of Finding Your Way. Woodstock, VT: Skylight Paths, 2012.
If you’d like to have access to the additional weekly discernment content but don’t have the resources right now, please simply let me know and I’ll put you on the list.