By Kat Goheen of Langley, British Columbia, Canada

For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.

Our silent lunch on retreat was an exhalation—an invitation to put aside everyone else’s emotional and psychic energy and focus on the textures, colors, and tastes of our food. I selected my food from the buffet line with care, with not too much of any one thing and lots of contrasts to keep my awareness alive. Satisfied, I found a space at one of the long tables and sat to enjoy the feast fully and slowly.

Before I looked at my food, I glanced at the table decoration that had been gathered from nature outside the dining hall. Some pinecones, some greenery, some shells—it was simple, winter fare. Movement caught my eye—an inchworm was climbing the pinecone in front of me. I was transfixed, watching her unblinking as I took bites of food. She held on to solid ground with her back pairs of legs and cast her whole body out into space, reaching for the next solid perch. She would test numerous spots, all the while holding her body expertly balanced. She was even persuaded to climb onto my finger, although it was clearly not her destination. Was she looking for the other side of the placemat or for the tree that she had climbed a few hours before?

Although I was not mindful of my food while eating that lovely lunch, that strong, elegant inchworm taught my soul a lesson on learning to fly while being firmly grounded. Like the inchworm, I know what firm ground feels like. Like the inchworm, I know how much support I need to hold my body and soul in space as I seek the next faithful step. Like the inchworm, I know in my heart where my destination and longings lie, even if it is not obvious from the outside.

Prayer Phrase

“Creation itself will be set free” (Romans 8:21).

Spiritual Practice

Holy Attention

Spend a few moments paying attention wherever you are. Notice what draws your focus surrounding you. Look more closely at detail and color. Notice what pulls or prods within you. How is the God-in-all-things speaking to you through what you see and feel right here, right now?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.