Paths to Explore: Time and Space

Places of rest and refreshment

Places of rest and refreshment are found
sometimes where we least expect them.
In the midst of the chaos of life
when we’re too burdened to lift our heads.

God may throw a stone in our path
over which we stumble upon new vision:
O God, help us to see these stones
as objects of blessing, not of cursing.

Guide our steps through the doors
where a welcome and shared bread awaits,
and help us provide such refreshment
for others you place in our lives.

Yvonne Morland, from 50 New Prayers from the Iona Community

I've heard people say there is something special about this island and there is no doubt that it is true. The pace of life seems slower and this time of living in community with over forty other participants as well as about thirty staff and volunteers is intended to stretch you.

We were asked to consider two things

What do you hope for from this week?

What will be your greatest challenge?

The second question was a very easy answer for me. Sharing a room with three other people and common washrooms is a bit more than a stretch for me and lands me in complete discomfort. My DH remarked that I was going to be greatly challenged and stretched. I replied but only for six nights and I'm going right back to my comfort zone!

Despite this challenge it is good to be here. To experience the worship in the Abbey church, to meet new people and hear their stories, to walk the narrow streets and enjoy the feel of the village, to sit by the ocean and smell the north Atlantic salt air and shiver in the cool breeze.

Sunday is a Sabbath day here and we are left very much to our own devices if we so choose. I so chose and wandered around, window shopped in the local stores, checked out the Iona gift store and didn't see any resources that I don't already own! And had a quiet day. The week is aptly called Time and Space and there is lots of both to enjoy.