Nebraska Synod ELCA

by David Pinkston, Director for Seeking the Spirit Within

As of August of 2023, we have 31 satellites circling our globe in order to help us find where we are and where we want to go. This kind of technology, now ubiquitous, is absolutely mind-blowing in terms of human history. In the past we used the stars, unreliable land and sea charts, intuition, courage, and perseverance to explore uncharted territories. The art of Spiritual Direction has also followed a similar trajectory. This ancient and contemporary practice has evolved over time in its capacity to help orient our lives and discern where Spirit is inviting us to move forward.

While digital mapping apps have helped us get from here-to-there on the physical plane with more surety, it seems as though our spiritual bearings are being put to the test more now than ever. Twenty-four hour news cycles, wars, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, civil unrest, and the polarization of those who pursue human wholeness and empathy, and those who remain stuck in an atrophy of world-view can make us all feel disconnected and sometimes, even, spiritually paralyzed. Yet, Spirit is calling us all forward…moreover, God has given us a divine/human GPS (God’s Positioning System) in order to do so!

We are living in days where the world around us requires spiritual caregivers. Those who are willing to do courageous inner-work in order to be a healing presence to the world around us. It is helpful for spiritual communities to have a sage-on-the-stage. But it is a must for followers of the Way to be guides-on-the-side. This is how the Teacher did it: “follow me.” It’s a path. A way of learning to walk, relate, connect, practice. Jesus had students of all stripes and he loved each of them as they were. He cultivated love while simultaneously providing guidance – individually and collectively (Lk. 8:48 & Jn. 13:34-35).

The world is in need of healers and guides. Of those who have learned to be present, to listen deeply, and to ask meaningful life-giving questions. To help fellow seekers find guidance in a world that competes for our spiritual disorientation.

Seeking the Spirit Within is starting a new cohort this September! We invite those who feel called to be guides-on-the-side to discern joining us in this formational process. Space is filling up quickly!

If you are interested in joining the next cohort please visit:
Seeking the Spirit Within or contact David Pinkston