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Day Thirty-Two Lent Meditation: Tov in The Wilderness, A 40-Day Spring Prayer - Autism Acceptance Edition
- Andrea Angie (GA)
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
SOULjourner,
Today, we contemplate tov in the wilderness—a Lenten journey seeking to draw near to God's (tov) goodness to explore the complexities of our perception, interpretations, and human experience while fostering deeper reflection on where we traverse tov, both in the tangible + intangible realms.
Encouraging a culture of tov in daily life requires noticing the threads of tov that are divinely woven into each day. This calls for a childlike heart to boldly set out on a treasure hunt.
Tov in Scripture: Tangible + Intangible Goodness
The Hebrew word tov, first mentioned in Genesis 1, is a declaration of God’s sublime goodness embedded within creation. After each creative act, God saw that it was “good” (tov), culminating in Genesis 1:31 when He proclaimed all of creation “very good” (tov me’od). This goodness transcends mere physical beauty or functionality but also encompasses intangible qualities—harmony, purpose, and flourishing.
The creation chorus beautifully intertwines the tangible and intangible aspects of tov. The tangible world—light, land, plants, humanity, and animals—demonstrates God’s creative power, while the intangible order and purpose within creation showcase His divine wisdom. Together, they reflect a world designed to thrive in alignment with God’s sublime goodness.
Humanity (Ish and Ishah), created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27), embodies this duality as both tangible beings with physical form and intangible beings with spiritual depth. This connection highlights that God’s tov permeates all parts of existence, inviting us to encounter His goodness in both seen and unseen ways.
Tov in Struggles
Tov in struggles is not merely about ease but about transformation—aligning us with God’s compassion and drawing us closer to His heart.
We are invited to trust that God’s tov is actively working during times of uncertainty or difficulty, especially when it feels beyond our perception or understanding.
His goodness remains steadfast.
Even when His tov feels hidden, as it did for Joseph in the pit and prison, it shapes us through our challenges, bringing forth grace + renewal in ways we may not anticipate.
Meditate on Jacob’s Story (Genesis 32:22-33).
Tov + Autism
For Autistic and AuDHD individuals, tov reflects the holiness of diversity within creation. Our perspectives often reveal unique insights into beauty, creativity, and truth—qualities deeply aligned with God’s tov. These expressions challenge conventional norms of “goodness,” reminding us that God’s goodness surpasses human limitations + expectations.
A Blessing - Tov in the Wilderness
This Lenten season...
May you encounter God’s tov in every corner of your wilderness journey—in struggles transformed into growth and in moments of beauty + delight.
May you sense God’s tov shaping your holiness and cultivating an earnest connection with Him, yourself, and others.
Amen + Asé
For Reflection
In this moment, where do you recognize evidence of God’s tov (goodness) in both tangible + intangible provisions?
In what ways does your unique, holy humanity reflect the beauty + creativity of God’s tov?
For April's National Autism Acceptance Month, affirm: "In this inclusive collective, I am seen, heard, and valued. Autism is not a limitation but a source of empowerment + self-expression. I will celebrate my so-not-typical self."
A Special Free Gift for You
To deepen your journey into sensory awareness + sensing pleasure, I invite you to download my complimentary PDF guide, Savoring Sensuality with Soul.
This pastoral guide explores the importance of presence, surrender, and gratitude in experiencing life's replete pleasures more fully. It offers pastoral care on how to engage your senses and celebrate your neurology.
Download Your Free PDF Here:
As you explore this resource, remember that your unique journey is a celebration of soulful living. May you find daring shalom + sensual pleasure in every moment.
With soul,
Pastor Angie
SOULjourner, go Deeper on my Autism+ page for more resources.
A Gift Set SOULution
Featuring The So Not Typical Soul Care Kit
A so-not-typical gift set to celebrate neurodivergence. Being typical is not the standard. Acceptance is. It's more than a gift set—a soul care sanctum.
As you embark on this journey with The 'So Not Typical' Collection, remember that Neuro ARTvocacy + empathy matters.
You're investing in a somatic practice of soul care to amplify your peace.
INCLUDED IN THE SOUL CARE KIT GIFT SET: Free Gift Wrapping included
1x - 8oz Non-toxic, Luxury Coconut Soy Wax, Candle (pick your essential oil scent)
1x - Pair of socks
3x - Assorted Greeting Cards: My momma is autistic, So not typical, Infinite spectrum of acceptance - 4.25 x 5.5 tent-style cards with luxe, embossed envelopes, nestled in a satin peach drawstring pouch
1x - College-ruled Journal, Bingo-guided back cover, ridiculously soft covers
1x - Faux Feather Pen
1x - Gold Electric Candle Warmer
Or you can BUILD YOUR OWN GIFT SET >>
Until next time,
Gift from your soul.
✧
Deepen Your Soul Care Journey
Beloved SOULjourner, as you continue to nurture your gift-giving practice, discover sustainable gifts designed to embody intentional gift-giving + connection.
Soulful gifting for social change in the soul care boutique be inspired to amplify your ARTvocacy through peace + play vibes.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only as I share my pastoral care, my journey, and bring to you valuable research. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing any medical concerns or symptoms, please seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
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