“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering all of them in her heart”
-Luke 2:19
When was the last time you busted out a journal or a diary (for you ladies) and wrote down your thoughts, feelings, emotions, deepest dreams and fears in a place that was sacred? According to many studies people who consistently journal are happier, less moody, and have an overall better quality of life of those you don’t.
The paradox is ironic isn’t it? Slow down, do less, be more intentional in gauging your own heart and health and guess what happens? Yes….you become in touch with your own heart.
The Importance of Creating a Sacred Space
When Jesus showed up on his mission in Bethlehem the story is marked with trials, poverty, racial tensions and a bunch of odd characters who hadn’t made too much of a positive mark on the world. However the story tells us that Mary (his teenage mom) saw what was happening, Mary saw what God was doing and Mary “treasured these things and pondered them in her heart”. Mary had sacred space to process who she was, what God was doing and what she should in light of what God was doing.
Pursuing the Sacred This Holiday Season
The Holidays are times typically marked but busy-ness, noise, conflict and an over-extension of our resources (time and money). While trying to pursue “the good life” we end up disappointed, confused and ultimately out of control. These kinds of “downward spirals” are the last thing that any of us need in our pursuit of sobriety.
If you are going to come through the holidays strong in fighting your addiction you must plan your “sacred space” today. You must find the times in your calendar week in which you relate to God in prayer, relate to yourself (in journaling) and relate others in serving/giving.
So… if you have an old journal or diary maybe you should go dust that thing off to get inspired. Find the ways you’ve grown and matured since you last wrote in it and thank God that He’s not done with you and create sacred space to get in touch with God and yourself in a way that gives life to you and those around you.
Community Discussion – Share Your Thoughts Here!
What has helped keep your time and attention focused on what is truly important in your addiction recovery?
About the Author:
Ryan Moffat is the teaching pastor at Vast Church in Sisters, OR and is currently working on his Masters in Theology at Western Seminary in Portland, OR
Ryan received his BS in Bible and Theology and a minor in counseling from Multnomah University. He has pastored students, families and is passionate about Christ-centered recovery and healing. He’s been married to his beautiful wife Michelle for 13 years and they enjoy raising four crazy, unique and special kids together.
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The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on November 30, 2016
Published on AddictionHope.com