Finding your sacred space

God is all around so every space can be sacred. It's true we can respect and feel the spiritual at any time and place, but many think they need a private spot to be more in tune with the presence of God. How and where does one create a sacred space, and why do so?

We mortals like to feel and see reminders of God, Jesus and others whom we love, deceased and living. That's why we keep pictures, replicas and other memorabilia. We sense people's company more through things that remind us of them.

God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are particularly difficult for people to grasp because faith is the chief means through which we recognize their existence.

Even though Christians reference Scripture and prayer, and some experience miracles, we're unable to reach the degree of relationship with the Trinity we desire. Common sense tells us it's obvious we would be unable to breathe, move or enjoy creation, period, without the existence of a God. We yearn to be closer to the One who created and sustains us.

One way is to find a place to feel alone with God. To indeed act as Jesus did when he told his disciples to "Come apart to a secluded place and rest awhile, for many people were around and they had not even had a chance to eat." (Mark 6:31) Scripture cites many instances when Jesus sought solitude to pray. With our excessively busy lives, we need, more than ever, to seek a place to come apart -- to rest, collect our thoughts and seek God's peace.

Types and places of sacred spaces are limited only by people's imagination. Churches are believed to be houses of God. I once watched a man who sat at a particular spot on a creek bank when he wanted to talk to God, another within his fishing boat.

Your sacred desert can be something as elaborate as a specially built room. Or it can be as simple as a picture of Jesus or a different holy figure displayed on top of a bedroom chest. Religious items and inspiring notations in your workplace can serve as a sacred space.

I have several sacred havens, one inside my bedroom. On top of my chest of drawers sits a replica of Jesus and Mary with a candle positioned between. A crucifix hangs above. Another spot is in my upstairs office. There, I can better feel the presence of the Trinity by contemplating a larger crucifix, a guardian angel wall hanging and three humanlike figurines cloistered in a circle of friendship. I often play soft music and listen to a small indoor waterfall, adding to the calm of the environment.

Many people enjoy indoor and outdoor waterfalls and ponds in their yards. The sound and appearance of flowing water helps them to meditate. Although we can't always erect walls to keep the world out, we can quiet ourselves within. It's easier when one has a special place in which to withdraw.

"Come to me all you who are burdened and I will give you rest," is a favorite Bible verse for many. Although Jesus is talking about rest for the soul, without taking some time away from daily responsibilities it's often difficult to come to Jesus and obtain that inner respite that he promises.

Even an occasional table can be your oasis. Some people have only a Bible and lamp situated there, but it's a place that's sacred to them. It reminds them of their roots, telling them God is present and they are truly His beloved. Sometimes a Bible lies on someone's coffee table.

Regardless of what it contains or the location; that special place where you can visit with God is important. Make yours as unique as you are.

Ellen Shuck holds degrees in psychology, religious education and spiritual direction and provides spiritual direction to people at her office.