holy places

"come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." -- Mark 6:31

when i worked at camp, there was a bridge that goes over the canals in okoboji. it was maybe a half mile from the camp entrance, and i would find myself there often at night. the street light attracted bugs, which attracted fish, which attracted me. i didn't usually try to catch them, but rather leaned on the concrete railing and watched. feeling the wind off the lake in my face, watching the silent world beneath me, it felt like i was close to God. that bridge became a destination for me on my prayer walks -- usually an hour or so, wandering in the dark, talking out loud with God about all sorts of stuff. i ended up there most times, watching, waiting, and listening.

throughout my life i can think of many places that have served as holy -- spots where i find myself able to slow down and think, pray, and listen. seems like in the world we live in, it is a necessity. right now, i've got a few that i can retreat to if i need to -- my bike (doesn't matter which one or where i go) serves as a mobile holy place. i can go, move, find rhythm, and not think. i find that the absence of thought can be holy for me. i'm a clean slate for a time; that allows God canvas to work on. the sanctuary at church -- during the week, it's quiet. i go there to pray. something about the dark wood, large space, and purpose of the room. spring branch creek in manchester...i fly fish there, which i've not done nearly enough of! that for me is another holy place...the stream, the woods, the escape from reality for a bit...these things are all spirit rechargers for me. and i think we all need them...

where are your holy places?