What lies dead and deformed in the letter on the dead parchment comes to life when put into practice. ~Peter of Celle, The School of the Cloister
Our youngest child, Miles, took up the saxophone in sixth grade. While he had some natural ability, he, like every other kid in his band class, had to practice to improve. Every student was supposed to practice at home alone, then at school with their “section,” and then, in the days leading up to a concert, they would join the rest of the sections and practice all together as the complete Middle School Band. The first year’s concert was the kind that only a parent or grandparent could love. But, over time, Miles and the students who stuck with the program progressed in their abilities according to their talent and dedication to practicing—together and on their own. By senior year, some had even grown into outstanding musicians, able to pick up a piece of sheet music for the first time and play.
Over the years, I have come to think of the work of spiritual life as akin to being in a school band program. We start badly. Yes, some of us may have an initial natural talent for things like contemplative prayer or fasting but becoming proficient in the spiritual life so that things like stillness, forgiveness, self~reflection and study of Scripture become as natural as breathing requires hours and days and years and lifetimes of practice—on our own and together. It requires practicing our spiritual scales over and over. It requires small group “section” work with folks in the same place or season who can help us feel less alone in our blunders. And it requires practicing with the larger community, with those who have gone beyond us and who can help us when we miss a note or a beat.
For Reflection
What spiritual practice might you need to bring to life by practicing more regularly, alone and with others?
To receive these mediations in your inbox please visit Episcopal Relief and Development
For more resources please visit The Episcopal Church in Colorado Lent Formation Resources (These resources include Lenten meditations and activities for different age groups and interests.)