On a recent schools visit where I was conducting some Continual Professional Development (CPD) training for a group of around 16 staff I carried out the following exercise. It could work with a small group at your church, youth group or individually.
Gather together a large number of stones/pebbles and set them down on a table in front of the group.
Invite the group to come and choose a few pebbles, perhaps up to a maximum of three.
As they hold them in their hands, imagine for a few moments that each of the pebbles represent a worry or trouble that they have been carrying around, whether for themselves or somebody else.
Think how heavy it is, think how it feels, imagine for a minute that the pebble was in your shoe or in a bag, as you carry it. The pebble becomes heavier and more difficult the longer you carry it.
Each of us carry burdens of one type or another. On occasions these can be positive as they show our concern and support, and on other occasions they can be destructive as they remind us of sadness, loss and unresolved hurt.
Read Matthew 11 v 28-30 (slowly through a few times)
Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Play an appropriate piece of music. My personal favourite is O come to the altar, from the Acoustic sessions by Elevation Worship.
Invite the group to come and lay their burden/pebble down.
Encourage them not to pick it back up.
If anyone feels it appropriate (and with sensitivity and care) invite people to share.
Be still.
Pause to pray.
Peter Thomas
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