I have often heard the phrase, "God is as near as your every breath." What does that mean for you? How often do you notice your breathing throughout the day? When it's so quiet, that it's the only sound you hear... or when it's more pronounced like when you are exercising (on purpose or when you are trying to hurry). I would invite you today to be more aware of your every breath, and when you do, remember that God is near to you. This prayer was shared with me as a part of a Lent devotion recently. It's a prayer that helps you focus on your breathing while you pray. Take this prayer with you as you continue your day, remembering God's spirit abides in each of us. The prayer from Jack Levison shared below is one that helps us remember to breathe and pray.

 Holy Spirit,
I've forgotten how to breathe deeply, fearlessly, joyfully. Afraid as I am that life will come and knock the wind right out of me...
 
Take a breath...
So I breathe in small gasps, quick huffs, short sighs. Afraid as I am that life will come and knock the wind right out of me.

Take a breath...
Gather a windstorm from the four corners of the earth. Rattle my tired bones. Stretch my weary sinews. Renew my parched flesh. And bring me back, Holy Spirit back to life, back to living, back to hope.

In Christ's Name, Amen.

The Spirit of God made me what I am, the breath of God Almighty gave me life!  -Job 33:4

Prayer for Today
 
The prayer for today is included above.