First Congregational Christian United Church Of Christ - An Open And Affirming Church in Chester, VA
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Spiritual Growth

FOR A NEW BEGINNING

​ In out-of-the-way places of the heart,
Where your thoughts never think to wander,
This beginning has been quietly forming,
Waiting until you were ready to emerge. For a long time it has watched your desire,
Feeling the emptiness growing inside you,
Noticing how you willed yourself on,
Still unable to leave what you had outgrown. It watched you play with the seduction of safety
And the gray promises that sameness whispered,
Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent,
Wondered would you always live like this. Then the delight, when your courage kindled,
And out you stepped onto new ground,
Your eyes young again with energy and dream,
A path of plenitude opening before you. Though your destination is not yet clear
You can trust the promise of this opening;
Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning
That is at one with your life's desire. Awaken your spirit to adventure;
Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;
Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,
For your soul senses the world that awaits you.

JOHN O'DONOHUE From his books 'To Bless the Space Between Us' (US) / Benedictus (Europe)
Ordering Info: https://johnodonohue.com/store Co. Clare / Ireland - 2019
Photo: © Ann Cahill


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  • HOME
  • About Us
    • Our Pastor
    • Church Profile
    • What We Believe
    • Directions
  • Ministry
    • Christian Education
    • Creation Justice Ministry
    • Mission and Outreach
    • Spiritual Growth >
      • Daily Devotional
  • Worship Calendar
    • Monthly Church Calendar
    • The Messenger
  • United Church of Christ
  • Progressive Christianity
  • Upcoming Events
  • Recent Events