Spirit Prayers Growing Faith Through Adversity

In a world still reeling from a global pandemic, divisiveness, systemic hatred, violence, war, disorientation, uncertainty, change and so much unsettling us, there is evidence that we are all suffering from trauma and sustained stress. Looking to the plant world as metaphor for the relationship with God "Spirit Prayers:Growing Faith Through Adversity" offers reflections on Scripture passages from the common lectionary. The growth theme takes us to the Sower, our roots, seeking out nourishment, connectedness, producing fruit, and facing stress. It is often through hardship or suffering that we come to a deeper relationship with the Holy. We are seeds planted by a loving God who is our foundation. As we take root in the divine we are made strong and more resilient. Our growth leads to an understanding that in God we can face difficulty, fear, or any condition with assurance of the Divine Presence, guidance and protection. Our response is love and service. The author felt a strong push to add a third book to the previous two because after praying through the pandemic she realized how turning to her faith brought her through and is sustaining her in this prolonged time of disquiet, agitation and adversity . She hopes you can find some support through Scripture reflection and beginning your prayer with her.

Dr. Devoree Clifton Crist is a spiritual director, retired physician, wife and mother living in St. Louis, Missouri. She holds a Master in Theological Studies from Eden Theological Seminary and a Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Aquinas Institute of Theology. She received her doctorate degree from Washington University School of Medicine, all in St Louis.
A unforeseen benefit of the pandemic has been a creative outburst in physical and virtual worship, in liturgy, and music, as she serves in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She also paints, teaches, gardens, and enjoys photography.