It’s the most common prefix in the English language.

It’s also my favorite.

It’s all about starting over, getting a fresh start.

In centering prayer, you are encouraged to use a word that redirects you when your mind wanders. Trust me: it happens to everyone. Three of the words I use are “re-” words. Refresh, renew, restore.

A second chance. A new lease on life.

A few of the “re-” words have a negative connotation, but most do not.

If I may (well, I will; after all, it’s my blog), I offer up the following, which I hope will be more amusing than confounding.

When you revisit and rehash, you are reminded of how reprehensible the reflection might be. Re-word it all you want, but it will keep repeating. You will always remember and recoil when you recollect the recurring nightmare.

But if you repent and return from the recalcitrant behavior, you will be refreshed, restored, and renewed. When you re-evaluate the residual effects, you will make reparations and pursue reconciliation. You will be revived and replenished in spirit, reminded that God remembers you and rejoices over one sinner who repents. Reliving what you did will be a relentless pursuit. So, reJOY!ce and believe! Our God reconsiders His anger and sorrow over our recycling efforts to rehabilitate and returns us to Him.

Unconditional love.

Pastor Art

Re: our relationship with Our Redeemer.