By Katie Harmon McLaughlin, Director of Formation Ministries

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

[Excerpted from “When We Gather,” Advent and Christmas 2025 Resource]

Inhale: Teach me wisdom
Exhale: In my secret heart

Spend a few moments here repeating this phrase until the words naturally fall away.

In whatever way is most comfortable for you, visualize entering the cave of your heart… the innermost, centermost depth of your being, the sacred source of all you are,

…the part of you that is most real, reliable, persistent underneath any image or experience of the divine that you
have released or now claim.

Whatever is happening on the surface of your life—your questions, your doubts, relationships, and situations, there is stillness here, a comforting darkness to hold you.

In the center of the cave there is a fire, or a candle, or a lantern… just enough light for you to see what needs to be seen, to bring warmth.

Spend some time here. Observe your surroundings. Take a breath and rest. Notice if the sacred has anything to say to you in this deeper place.

Whether something or nothing emerges for you, be gentle and generous with yourself. This is a place of pure, unrestricted grace.

It is where you can glimpse your wholeness and know your worth as sanctuary for the sacred, bearer of the light of God.

Teach me wisdom,
In my secret heart.

Prayer Phrase

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy” (Luke 2:10).

Kindling the Light

Choose a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably. Place a candle or small light in front of you. Take a few slow breaths, letting the noise of the day settle. Light the candle. As you strike the match or switch on the light, say softly:
“I make room for joy to grow within me.
I make room for the light that connects me to others.
I make room for the Spirit of Christ.”
Pause for a few breaths, letting the glow of the light fill your awareness.

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.