Spiritual Collectives Fall 2025
The Quiet Work: Living the Fruit of the Spirit

Week 2: Love — The Quiet Beginning, the Foundation of All

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IN THIS LESSON

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” —John 13:34.

Take a deep breath and ask God what he would say to you. What does he want you to hear? Take note of any word, phrase, feeling or image that pops out or “shimmers” for you as you listen to the meditation.

Some things begin with a spark.
Others begin with a quiet, steady presence.
Love begins like that.

[Pause]

Not loud.
Not showy.
But real.

[Pause]

This love isn’t measured by how much we feel.
It’s known by how we make space.
How we stay.
How we choose to see each other clearly—and kindly.

[Pause]

Love that is patient.
Love that doesn’t need to be right.
Love that doesn’t walk away when things get uncomfortable.

[Pause]

All the other fruits grow from this place.
Love is the beginning that makes everything else possible.
It is a way of moving toward others with openness and care.

[Pause]

It’s not a task to complete.
It’s a way of being formed.

[Pause]

Is there a place in your life where love feels quiet right now?
Maybe unnoticed.
Maybe hard.
But still present?

[Pause]

That, too, is fruit.
That, too, is the Spirit at work.

[Pause]

Just let the word linger:
Love.


Spiritual Inventory

Main Questions

  • What is God saying to me?

  • What will I do about it?

Other Questions to Consider:

  • Where is God present for you in this week's meditation?

  • How did the meditation speak to you?

  • What thoughts or questions arose?

  • Are you affirmed or challenged in your current actions or beliefs?

  • What insights or questions are you left with?

  • Are there actions you feel challenged to change or lean deeper into?

  • What has God been saying to you about these in the interim?

  • The Quiet Work meditation series was written by Rev. Dr. Patrice Gerideau. She is an ordained minister, spiritual director, writer, and soul care companion, and a vital part of the soul|makers team. You can find more of her writings and work with spiritual direction at her website: https://patriceonline.com/

  • You can find the collection of over 200 videos including original meditation series and interviews with artists on the Vergenow YouTube Channel. The videos are produced by Dan ABH and the support of the soul|makers and Convergence community and staff.