Welcome to the first episode of Psalms of the Epiphany, a weekly series of heartfelt reflections guided by one of our pastors, Alicia Divers. As a Spiritual Director and Somatic Practitioner, Alicia seamlessly integrates mindful awareness of the body into her pastoral work. Inspired by St. Ignatius’ imaginative approach, she pairs these contemplative practices with Nan Merrill’s beautiful paraphrase of each week’s Psalm.

For Further Spiritual Exploration, Enhance your reflection by journaling the following questions available in our series overview:

1. Which image resonated most with you—the sparrow or the table?

If the sparrow resonated with you: What place came to mind as a space where you sense the presence of God? Is there a physical or imagined place where you feel safe to simply rest and be as you are, without needing to strive or change?

If the table resonated with you: What would you need to receive or take from the table to remind you that you are enough—welcomed, loved, and fully included? Is there something you long for that would help you feel more connected to this sense of divine hospitality?

2. What does embodied divine hospitality look like in your own life? How do you actively welcome and embrace others as God welcomes you?

3. How can taking personal responsibility to embody divine hospitality lead to transformation within our local church community and the broader Church? In what ways can our individual changes impact how the Church welcomes and serves others in our community and beyond?

Resource Links:

• Book Resource: Psalms for Praying by Nan Merrill
• Good Shepherd New York: www.goodshepherdnewyork.com
• Find Out More About Alicia: www.somatic-spirituality.com

Music and Mixing:

• Music Credit: David Gungor
• Editing: David Gungor & Michael Rudzena

Closing Thoughts: We hope this first meditation enriches your faith and strengthens our community in Christ. Tune in each week for new reflections and continue your journey of spiritual growth with us.