While Darkness Does Its Work
Katie Harmon-McLaughlin of Walnut Creek, CA, USA
After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. -John 19:38-42
“The seed is in the ground. Now may we rest in hope while darkness does its work” (Wendell Berry, A Timbered Choir, Counterpoint, 1999, p. 131).
This is the time…
for being a witness in the waiting.
for realizing I am not in control.
for embracing a restfulness
whose invitation arrives
in what cannot be done alone.
This is the place…
of deep trust, of aching hope.
of something happening unseen.
where the seed unfurls unassisted
regardless of agenda
in the wonder of the dark
by the power of creation
through the mystery of the Creator
fully intending to thrive.
Prayer Phrase
I surrender into your love.
Spiritual Practice
Centering Prayer
Set a timer for 20 minutes. (If that feels like too much at first, choose a time that will be comfortable for you as a starting place, committing to expand that time in future prayer.) Allow the rhythm of your breath to draw you deeper and deeper into silence. As you breathe, claim one sacred word (Christ, peace, grace, trust, etc.) emerging in you as an anchor to return you to the intention of your prayer when your thoughts begin to wander. Gently release the thoughts and images that come, making space for presence to the One who is with you here and now. Release, return, “be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:10b).
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.
