The Inner Life
Our inner life grows and moves not unlike the physical growth and movements of a developing baby. In the first couple of months of human development in the womb, the new life forming is small, and from the perspective of the mother and community surrounding her, almost undetectable.
You formed me in my inmost being; you knit me in my mother’s womb. ~Psalm 139:13
Important to our journey in Advent is the knowledge that the movements or “evidence” of our inner life is sometimes abundant and available to our senses, feelings, thoughts and responses while other times a walk of trust in the absence of feeling or noticing God’s “knitting,” labor or calling to us from within.
The Life Within You Letters
Hey Mom, I’m getting bigger, but I still am pretty small, I'm about the size and weight of a postage stamp. Remember that beat I was noticing, it’s stronger – can you hear it yet?
I have lots of little “buds” popping up all over and I’ve been watching them grow into my arms and legs, and toes and fingers. My brain and spinal cord are formed, so I can feel the changes happening.
My body is taking on more structure and is getting stronger – bones are replacing cartilage. My face is changing too. I can’t wait to be able to open my eyes & see you! Lots of big changes happening to my little body.
What thoughts or feelings come to you as you imagine God “knitting you” in the womb?
Additional Resources:
Psalm 139: All Life is Precious (by Lilia Olsick, Clarifying Catholicism) A deep look at the Psalm quote in today’s blog, a vibrant and comprehensive at this Psalm.
The Gabriel Project. The Gabriel Project® offers hope and assistance to any woman experiencing a crisis pregnancy. We respect all life and see the birth of each child as a fresh expression of the unfailing love of God. Our concern is not only for the unborn child, but also for each and every mother in need.
Slideshow of Fetal Development in the Womb (WebMD) Photos & descriptions of the incredible progress made every few days & weeks during a pregnancy.