Fitting ourselves into the beginnings of another season of reorganizing our lives, the random chaos and uncertainty of too much to do may seem daunting, when what we really would like is to fulfill the longing in our hearts. To have time to reflect, to hone our intentions and discernments in order to live a more full and intentional life.
As silly as the metaphor of the yellow camera filled with life-giving juice might be, the poignancy of whether we have ‘life’ or ’living juiciness’ in us may be right on the mark. The Matthew 16 passage urges us to answer Jesus’ question ‘Who do you say I am?’ We resonate with Peter’s response,” You are life, you are the living God, you are the Messiah.”
I would invite you to have a look at DeWitt Jones’ Ted Talk. The “juice” story starts at 13:30.
A retreat In the midst of all our dailiness, may be just what is needed for you to take the intentional time each week to experience a richer freedom and a deeper love. The retreat I refer to is A Retreat in Daily Life, praying the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.
Much like physical exercise, these spiritual exercises take some intention, however these are gentle enough so that they are ‘exercised’ simply, yet profoundly amid the ‘too muchness’ of our lives. Through a compilation of meditations, prayers, and contemplative practices, we will deepen in our relationship with God by opening our lives to the action of God. A life of peace instead of fear, of love instead of hostility, of grace instead of gracelessness. A life that honors both us and those within our communities.
We look inward as Ignatius did, and find creation, find God. The phenomenon of Ignatius’ life is that he experienced God in everyday life and not only shared, but showed the way for others to discern and live accordingly. This is an extraordinary understanding of a truly personal relationship with God, a hope for the ordinary person who longs to be caught up in the love that is promised as the meaning and dynamism of the Christian existence. Some would call this the universal journey of a soul into God.
If you are interested in honing your Spirit, freeing your psyche, discerning your call, re-affirming your gifts as you co-create with the creator, this retreat, including a commitment to daily prayer, weekly small group interaction, and individual meetings with the spiritual director, will be life-changing for you.
A friend and retired pediatrician, who was cautious and somewhat resistant throughout his time with Ignatius, said to me years after he had prayed the process, “Ruthanne, don’t you think that if we looked at our whole lives as prayer, it would absolutely fill us up with the juiciness of all things life-giving, and change us forever!’
Come fill up with the juiciness of your life.
Day: Wednesdays
Time: To be arranged.
Place: To be determined
Cost: $800 (scholarships may be available)
Can’t wait to hear from you!
Rev. Ruthanne Svendsen, MDiv, Spiritual Director; graduate of the San Francisco Theological Seminary Program in the Art of Spiritual Direction. 2026-27 will be her 31st season in leadership.
Contact me at: ruthannesvendsen@sbcglobal.net, or call 707-942-6282 for questions and conversation in regards to your desires and meeting times.
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