During the Middle Ages many Christians wanted to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. However this spiritual goal could be quite costly and very dangerous since there were few roads and frequent bands of thugs and robbers which meant that only the wealthiest and largest traveling groups were likely to make their journey safely. When pilgrims couldn't get to Jerusalem, many devised walkways which were like a 'virtual pilgrimage.' A labyrinth is a pattern with a purpose. Yes, it will be a pattern on the floor painted on canvas, but it will be much more than that. The many turns in the labyrinth reflect the journey of life. The labyrinth is a symbol of our passage through time and experience.

Walking the labyrinth is more about the journey than the destination; about joining body, mind and spirit. Walking the labyrinth can be an entry into sacred space and time that makes us more receptive to the presence of God in our life. Or it can be a chance to take 'time out' from our busy lives, to leave schedules and stress behind.

Unlike a maze, you cannot get lost in a labyrinth. But one may be tempted to leave the path, especially when it heads in surprising directions. Walking a labyrinth can lead to discovery and insight about ourselves as will any good journey. And when we have accomplished what we set out to do often there comes a peacefulness, happiness, and overall sense of contentment within ourselves.

 

The Lindenwood labyrinth began as an opportunity for members of the church to take some 'time out' to prayerfully consider their stewardship. Since God has entrusted so much to our care, it is important that we prayerfully and thoughtfully accept this responsibility. Our goal is to be faithful stewards. That does not mean that we must 'maximize' every resource to its limit as might be expected in business. But it also means that we must honor and care for every resource as finite and limited in God's economy.

As you walk the labyrinth you are invited to think about your stewardship as a Christian. We hope that you will meditate on what our Lord Jesus Christ taught about the meaning and purpose of possessions. We want to encourage you to pray about your opportunities and responsibility to give your time or your talent, as well as your money, to something or someone who needs the blessing of your generosity.

Walking a labyrinth is a gift we give to ourselves, leading to discovery, insight, peacefulness, connectedness and well-being.

 

The Labyrinth is a spiritual tool, designed to awaken in us a deep rhythm that unites us to ourselves and to the God who created us. As Christians we may choose to surrender to this winding path allowing our souls any opportunity to experience healing and wholeness.

Based on the circle, the universal symbol for unity and wholeness, the Labyrinth may activate our imagination (or creative insights) thereby bringing unity and wholeness within ourselves and with others.