For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind.

[Adapted from “Love as Christ Loved,” Robin Linkhart, Mar/Apr 2022 Herald, p. 25]

All through the Gospel of John, Jesus is intent on helping disciples understand the reason for his being, the purpose of his mission, and the nature of God revealed in and through his life and ministry.

When they press him on issues of who’s in and who’s out—when they want him to clarify where he draws the line—Jesus flatly answers, “I will draw all people to myself.” Which is to say, “I am here for everyone.” There is no line. Radical selfless love, drawing all people close.

Jesus talks about opening ourselves to a depth of relationship with God that transforms, a relationship that allows our authentic self to emerge as the false self withers and falls away.

Ours is a loving God who yearns to draw the world close in an ever-widening circle of transforming love, bringing healing, wholeness, and hope.

Nancy Seifer and Martin Vieweg share these words about metamorphosis:

One of the most enduring metaphors for the spiritual path is the transformation of the lowly caterpillar into a butterfly.

Out of its own substance, the ground-hugging grub weaves the medium for its metamorphoses—the chrysalis where it evolves into a beautiful creature with wings.

The human being undergoes an equally dramatic transformation, unfolding the path to liberation from within the depths of the soul and emerging, after great struggle, as an expression of divinity in the world.

This is the ongoing journey of becoming who God created us to be. Not someone else. Rather, exactly who you are—from the heart and soul—from the inside out.

Prayer Phrase

“We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Spiritual Practice

Sea of Light

Quiet and center yourself. Ask for God’s healing and guidance as you enter this time of prayerful presence. Close your eyes, breathing deeply and calmly. Imagine you are floating in a beautiful sea of light that rises and falls with each cycle of your breath. The golden light of this sea buoys you up, so you float effortlessly. Waves of light carry and wash over you, bringing wholeness and peace. Rest in the sea of God’s love; then offer a prayer of gratitude.

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.