Words by Rev. Henley, September 2010
“The road to hell is paved with good intentions” is a popular aphorism of the Twentieth Century. Many of us have heard it many times.
Well, my good intentions paved the way to some powerful spiritual and religious growth this summer, but as many of you know, this kind of growth often feels like “hell!”
As I’ve said before, in sermons, the reason it is so hard for us to realize our fullest potential is because it is hard work, often challenging to our sensibilities, and quite often, embarrassing. Embarrassing to admit to our therapist or counselor or spiritual director, and even to ourselves that we have that “kind of issue within.”
One of my therapists once told me, “You wouldn’t believe the number of patients I have that won’t tell me the truth—it takes years sometimes.” Oh yes, I’d believe it. Not only have I offered pastoral care to those who could not tell me all the truth of their pain, but I myself take a long time to tell my therapist and/or spiritual director “the truth of some things.”
This summer my good intentions were to work with the religious professionals who are my mentors on leadership skills; to work with my spiritual director on contemplative and meditative techniques; and to practice, practice, practice prayerful contemplation.
My mentors were happy to share with me direct experiences of their growth in learning to facilitate leadership in a congregation. All three, with a combined experience of over seventy-five years experience in congregations, helped me recognize areas in which I needed to improve. Specifically, I learned I need to spend more time with those who are willing to be leaders and I need to spend more time with newcomers. This I pledge to do.
My spiritual director who has many gifts has helped me discern my personal images of God. Since I preach that we all need to find our own images of God which will then help us deepen our relationship with the Infinite, I thought it was a good time for me to do just that. I will share more of this in my sermons this year, suffice to say, my most powerful practices have been using these images for which I prayed.
Last, I have begun to spend more time each day in meditation and prayer. And something has happened that has changed me. I have learned what it means to be a Universalist. It is not so much about my soul, it is more about “our soul.” It is the intentional opening of my spiritual reality to become a part of—and to include in my spiritual self—others. It is expanding my contemplative presence to be much larger than just me. It is an intentional connection with others’ spiritual presence.
Oh, I am fortunate, you have called me, and you support my spiritual journey as your religious leader. For this I am grateful. I am hopeful that my sermons and my ministry here will demonstrate the spiritual growth of this summer.
As we begin our fifth year together, know that my prayers continue to be lifted up for you. And know that my good intentions anchor my actions in all that I do, even if sometimes, the road seems paved differently.
See you in church, Pastor Lillie