Description
There is an ancient and deeply compelling biblical tradition of going into the wilderness to find God. Moses, Jesus and Paul?to name just a few of our spiritual forebears?knew that in the wilderness they would find the quiet and simplicity that would lead to profound spiritual connections. They understood that normal day-today living is usually not the way to regain that connection with God, because it affords little opportunity to simply, humbly and quietly listen for God’s voice and feel God’s presence. Perhaps even in our time?especially in our time?leaving civilization to spend time with God in the wilderness holds an important key to our own spiritual renewal. This practical guide illuminates the power of finding God in the wilderness experience and the universality of spiritual connection through nature. It explores the teachings about wilderness in sacred writings and how we can grow through the shared and individual experiences of being present in nature. Acknowledgments Introduction 1. God in a Hummingbird The wilderness is a place of transformation. 2. It’s in Our DNA The wilderness is an ancient, universal experience. 3. Presence in the Present The wilderness brings us into the present moment, into God’s presence. 4. Scraping the Hull The wilderness returns us to our essence. 5. God in a Box The wilderness takes us beyond our expectations into God’s surprises. 6. God on the Edge The wilderness takes us beyond our comfort zone, tests us, and teaches us. 7. Healing Waters The wilderness leads us to solitude and silence so we can know ourselves and God. 8. The Rapture of Being Alive The wilderness opens us to the transcendent. Notes Suggestions for Further Reading About Renewal in the Wilderness
