Returning to God – Souvenirs from Egypt – Genesis 13
Abram leaves Egypt and returns to the place he first built an altar. He leaves the place of symbolic of sin but comes out bringing ‘stuff’ with him. Stuff that causes ultimately division and disharmony
When we have fallen away, made bad choices and the baggage we bring out of that place often weighs us down and slows our return to all God has promised us. What are we holding on to that is slowing us down?
You will need; Stones, labels, two baskets and a cross. The words below are available on the download along with instructions for setting this up. Ensure you have a clear walk way from ‘Egypt’ to the cross. Provide a comfortable place for reflection at the end. You may need several sets of stones if you have a large group, alternatively just carry the stones back to the start for the next person.
Souvenirs from Egypt
Abram leaves Egypt laden with slaves, cattle, Gold and silver. We read he has to make the journey in stages, he is no doubt slowed in his return to the place of promise by all his bounty from Egypt.
What baggage are you carrying that is slowing your journey to all God has promised you? What are you carrying that is heavy ?
Pick up all the stones in the basket into your hands, balance them if you have to and walk to the cross at the end of the room.
When you arrive put half the baggage/ stones down at the foot of the cross and return.
Walk back again and place the remaining stones there.
Then stay a while reading the reflection with your stones at the cross……
Well done for putting down your baggage……
Our spiritual journeys are quite often like this, we fall and have to make the journey back into the grace of God. Don’t be discouraged, there is always something beautiful in the return. Maybe a realisation, growth or a sense of commitment and purpose that has been gained from the experience.
We can also bring with us wounds or attachments that need to be left behind. Habits that we picked up or defence mechanisms to help us cope with being away from His place of promise, from that safety.
Look at the stones in the basket, do any of these resonate?
Spend some time thinking of times you have drifted away from God, what have you brought with you on the journey back?
What do you need to lay at the foot of the cross to make the rest of your journey easier?
Prayer
Lord God
Thankyou that you never fail to lead me back, that even when I can not hear you for my choices and my failings, you remain faithful to all you have promised.
Lord I ask you now to help me to see those habits and attachments that weigh me down and keep me from receiving the fullness of all you wish to give me. Please help me to place them at your feet and to leave them there. I ask especially for your healing touch on these things….
In your Holy and consoling name Jesus
Amen
