Daily Devotions - Monday, January 21

What Stuff Is Really Important?

“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for God;
do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
Take delight in the Lord, and God will grant you the desires of your heart.”
--Psalm 37, selected verses

Living in a society like ours, there is a tendency to see all of the “stuff” that surrounds us as a fulfillment of the promise “God will grant you the desires of your heart.” The creative genius of people lures those of us who are technologically challenged (and even those who aren’t) to feel like we have to have the latest “stuff” in order to be happy or fulfilled. Nothing could be further from the truth.

If you ever have an opportunity to spend time in places like Haiti, Nicaragua or El Salvador, you will discover people who have joy that is not dependent on things. To live among people who have little or no concept of our materialistic society can be a real blessing.

The deepest desires of the heart are realized when we take time to “be still” and “wait patiently.” The Way of the Heart (Nouwen) is a classic little book in human spirituality. As we practice stillness and patience, “we become compassionate people, deeply aware of our solidarity in brokenness with all of humanity and ready to reach out to anyone in need.” (Page 25). Authentic caregiving best leaps forth from the souls of people who are practicing stillness, of people who are waiting patiently for God. Have a blessed day of caregiving, friends.

A prayer for today:
Instill within me a silent, seeking heart, O God. Amen.

Ben Keckler
01.21.08