“Perfect Love casts out Fear” February 25, 2020

Pretty much wherever I am these days I experience quite a bit of fear in folks. I have come to believe that bottom line there is fear and there is love and I have the opportunity to choose which one I will allow to direct my life at any given moment. This takes repeatedly bringing ourselves to the present moment and directing our heart and mind in a loving way.

Years ago I heard Brother David Steindl-Rast, OSB say that there are 365 times in the Bible that God says “Don’t be afraid.” God knew we needed to be reminded everyday.

Many Spiritual writers today are addressing this reality. What I will share with you - Loving Kindness Meditation —comes from the Mindfulness Meditation Movement.

Gently stop and notice what you are feeling. Accept whatever the feeling is. Take a few slow, long breaths. Direct kind wishes to yourself. “ May I be safe. May I be healthy. May I be happy. May I be free from fear. May I be filled with loving kindness for myself and all that is.” (Feel free to make up your own wishes). Repeat as often as needed.

Directing love to ourselves for a few minutes inclines the heart and mind toward a sense of compassion and kindness. There is plenty of research that supports such is beneficial to our well being and influences positively those with whom we interact.

Loving God, Make me an instrument of your healing love in our world today!

Sister Ann Winters