Spring Sings a Song of Love
“O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth. ”
--From Psalm 96
The spring flowers continued to push toward the sun. The lilac showed courage and some leaves burst forth from their bud. The green blades kept emerging from under the brown turf cover of winter. A new song is being sung in creation while we sit inside watching NCAA basketball. Maybe this poetic piece by Fyodor Dostoyevsky can help frame our faith journey this week; it certainly seems to encourage me to sing a song of love for all that surrounds me.
Love all Creation
The whole of it and every grain of sand
Love every leaf
Every ray of God’s light
Love the animals
Love the plants
Love everything
If you love everything
You will perceive
The divine mystery in things
And once you have perceived it
You will begin to comprehend it ceaselessly
More and more everyday
And you will at last come to love the whole world
With an abiding universal love.
A prayer: Creator God put a new song in my heart. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.31.08
Monday, March 31, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, March 28
A Quiet Center
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today, focus on verse 3 of “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
In the Spirit let us travel; open to each other’s pain,
Let our loves and fears unravel, celebrate the space we gain:
There’s a place for deepest dreaming, there’s a time for heart to care,
In the Spirit’s lively scheming there is always room to spare!
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves. And, have a great weekend!
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.28.08
* Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co.
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today, focus on verse 3 of “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
In the Spirit let us travel; open to each other’s pain,
Let our loves and fears unravel, celebrate the space we gain:
There’s a place for deepest dreaming, there’s a time for heart to care,
In the Spirit’s lively scheming there is always room to spare!
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves. And, have a great weekend!
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.28.08
* Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co.
Daily Devotions - Thursday, March 27
A Quiet Center
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today, focus on a verse from the hymn “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
Silence is a friend who claims us, cools the heat and slows the pace,
God it is who speaks and names us, knows our being, touches base,
Making space within our thinking, lifting shades to show the sun,
Raising courage when we’re shrinking, finding scope for faith begun.
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves.
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.27.08
• Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co.
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today, focus on a verse from the hymn “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
Silence is a friend who claims us, cools the heat and slows the pace,
God it is who speaks and names us, knows our being, touches base,
Making space within our thinking, lifting shades to show the sun,
Raising courage when we’re shrinking, finding scope for faith begun.
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves.
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.27.08
• Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, March 26
A Quiet Center
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today we will look at a verse from “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
Come and find the quiet center in the crowded life we lead,
Find the room for hope to enter, find the frame where we are freed:
Clear the chaos and the clutter, clear our eyes that we can see
All the things that really matter, be at peace, and simply be.
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves.
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.26.08
*Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co
“God leads me beside still waters, restoring my soul.”
--From Psalm 23
One aspect of our spiritual journey during chaotic times falls into the area of self-care. Today we will look at a verse from “Come and Find the Quiet Center”*.
Come and find the quiet center in the crowded life we lead,
Find the room for hope to enter, find the frame where we are freed:
Clear the chaos and the clutter, clear our eyes that we can see
All the things that really matter, be at peace, and simply be.
Take a moment or two (three or four…) and find the restoration your soul deserves.
A prayer: Gentle God, lead me to places where I can care for my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.26.08
*Words by Shirley Erena Murray, 1989; © 1992 Hope Publishing Co
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, March 25
Election Reflection
“O God, you are my God, I seek you,
my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. ”
--From Psalm 63: 1
The faith journey is filled with mystery and tension. Being faithful to Divine presence is a worthy goal for each of us. It is clear that there are numerous voices on the side of peace and on the side of war. One of the most difficult things in America during this election year will be to maintain respect for persons “on the other side of the fence.” Both sides are easily able to justify their position and use a variety of quotes to back them up. Maintaining respect for and carefully listening to the “other side” is tough, tough stuff. Yet, this difficult stuff is what makes America the wonderful place that it is. United in the desire for liberty but differing in methodology for maintaining liberty; can we live with that?
Today there are Americans and Iraqi people who are in a war ravaged country. Some of them are dangerously close to not having enough for survival. Try to imagine it! If you can allow yourself enough quiet time to feel the effects of things like “no water”, then the cry of the Psalmist will be real. Today there will be many patients in hospitals who will be NPO and will cry out for just a bit of moisture on their tongue. If you can allow yourself to be close to those in need in their thirst, then the prayer of the Psalmist will be real.
May you have a good day with enough.
A prayer: Strong, aching God, be with all people and especially defenders of our freedom as the war continues. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.25.08
“O God, you are my God, I seek you,
my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. ”
--From Psalm 63: 1
The faith journey is filled with mystery and tension. Being faithful to Divine presence is a worthy goal for each of us. It is clear that there are numerous voices on the side of peace and on the side of war. One of the most difficult things in America during this election year will be to maintain respect for persons “on the other side of the fence.” Both sides are easily able to justify their position and use a variety of quotes to back them up. Maintaining respect for and carefully listening to the “other side” is tough, tough stuff. Yet, this difficult stuff is what makes America the wonderful place that it is. United in the desire for liberty but differing in methodology for maintaining liberty; can we live with that?
Today there are Americans and Iraqi people who are in a war ravaged country. Some of them are dangerously close to not having enough for survival. Try to imagine it! If you can allow yourself enough quiet time to feel the effects of things like “no water”, then the cry of the Psalmist will be real. Today there will be many patients in hospitals who will be NPO and will cry out for just a bit of moisture on their tongue. If you can allow yourself to be close to those in need in their thirst, then the prayer of the Psalmist will be real.
May you have a good day with enough.
A prayer: Strong, aching God, be with all people and especially defenders of our freedom as the war continues. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.25.08
Monday, March 24, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, March 24
It's Warming Up
“The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. ”
--From Psalm 19: 1
Good morning! Spring has sprung and the renewal of nature sings mighty songs! Along with a song of anticipated beauty, we can hear a song proclaiming the steady rhythm of life. Season after season declares the glory of God. (Candidly this writer is glad that winter is behind us, I’m ready for a season of new life!)
We continue to deal with another song as well. The drumbeat of rhetoric about Iraq continues daily. The painful stories continue to surface and, quite possibly, we will be hearing stories of trauma, death, destruction, courage, bravery and patriotism for some time to come. Each of us have personal perspectives to this international conflict, and respecting each person’s opinion is difficult, if not impossible. Five years ago, I wrote: “The challenge of prolonged war will be to stay the United States of America and not become the Untied States of America.” We are not totally “untied” but we are certainly far from “united.”
The song of springtime is a song of new life. Nature is telling the glory of God. I pray that we can at least carry a united song of new life to those we encounter this week.
A prayer: God of springtime, bring peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.24.08
“The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. ”
--From Psalm 19: 1
Good morning! Spring has sprung and the renewal of nature sings mighty songs! Along with a song of anticipated beauty, we can hear a song proclaiming the steady rhythm of life. Season after season declares the glory of God. (Candidly this writer is glad that winter is behind us, I’m ready for a season of new life!)
We continue to deal with another song as well. The drumbeat of rhetoric about Iraq continues daily. The painful stories continue to surface and, quite possibly, we will be hearing stories of trauma, death, destruction, courage, bravery and patriotism for some time to come. Each of us have personal perspectives to this international conflict, and respecting each person’s opinion is difficult, if not impossible. Five years ago, I wrote: “The challenge of prolonged war will be to stay the United States of America and not become the Untied States of America.” We are not totally “untied” but we are certainly far from “united.”
The song of springtime is a song of new life. Nature is telling the glory of God. I pray that we can at least carry a united song of new life to those we encounter this week.
A prayer: God of springtime, bring peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.24.08
Friday, March 21, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, March 21
Some Quotes, A Story and A Prayer
The quotes:
1. “Life is best spent in alleviating pain, assuaging distress, and promoting peace and joy. The service of man is more valuable than what you call ‘service of God.’ God has no need of your service. Please man, you please God.” (Sathya Sai Baba)
2. “There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.” (Albert Schweitzer)
3. “Service of God consists in what we do to our neighbor.” (Leo Baeck)
4. “They serve God well, who serve his creations.” (Caroline Norton)
A story: Read Luke 10: 25-37
A prayer: God of my life, may my caregiving radiate with compassion. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.21.08
The quotes:
1. “Life is best spent in alleviating pain, assuaging distress, and promoting peace and joy. The service of man is more valuable than what you call ‘service of God.’ God has no need of your service. Please man, you please God.” (Sathya Sai Baba)
2. “There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.” (Albert Schweitzer)
3. “Service of God consists in what we do to our neighbor.” (Leo Baeck)
4. “They serve God well, who serve his creations.” (Caroline Norton)
A story: Read Luke 10: 25-37
A prayer: God of my life, may my caregiving radiate with compassion. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.21.08
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, March 20
Wanting a More Peaceful World?
“God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay on course.
Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
My whole life being one long, obedient response. ”
--From Psalm 119
As written in The Message
War, complete with devastation, destruction and death continues to be a part of our world. People around our global village face the reality of emotions that accompany war. Lessons about life are being taught even as we read these words.
Finding a quiet space that is available for you to pause and spend prayerful time learning the lessons you need for living is important. Finding the quiet center of life is very important. May your moments of prayer help you stay on course.
A prayer: God of my journey, give me insight and bring us peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.20.08
“God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay on course.
Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
My whole life being one long, obedient response. ”
--From Psalm 119
As written in The Message
War, complete with devastation, destruction and death continues to be a part of our world. People around our global village face the reality of emotions that accompany war. Lessons about life are being taught even as we read these words.
Finding a quiet space that is available for you to pause and spend prayerful time learning the lessons you need for living is important. Finding the quiet center of life is very important. May your moments of prayer help you stay on course.
A prayer: God of my journey, give me insight and bring us peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.20.08
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, March 19
Journey of Awareness
“Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
For you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety. ”
--Psalm 4: 1, 8
One of the great journeys, maybe the greatest journey, we make is the journey of awareness. Hundreds and hundreds of writers have penned words to help us make the journey. Today's verses tell us of a person who is able to sleep peacefully, who is able to feel safety. These qualities hint that there is a measure of self-acceptance, a measure of awareness.
Regularly, I receive e-mails here at work or on my home computer from friends voicing their reactions to this unstable world. Times like these push us to remember who and whose we are. A very helpful book for making the journey is James McMahon’s, Radical Self-Acceptance. The book pushes the reader to work on significant aspects of life so that the “finished product” radiates qualities of joy, compassion and peace.
I am discovering that when the surrounding culture is filled with chaos, it is important to journey inward. Inward is the one area where I do have some ability to grow/change/become. As I do this, I find myself in a deepening relationship with a big, big universe. When I have that feeling, I can sleep in peace and lie down in safety. Have a good, good day!
A prayer: God of my journey, empower me on my journey through difficult times. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.19.08
“Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
For you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety. ”
--Psalm 4: 1, 8
One of the great journeys, maybe the greatest journey, we make is the journey of awareness. Hundreds and hundreds of writers have penned words to help us make the journey. Today's verses tell us of a person who is able to sleep peacefully, who is able to feel safety. These qualities hint that there is a measure of self-acceptance, a measure of awareness.
Regularly, I receive e-mails here at work or on my home computer from friends voicing their reactions to this unstable world. Times like these push us to remember who and whose we are. A very helpful book for making the journey is James McMahon’s, Radical Self-Acceptance. The book pushes the reader to work on significant aspects of life so that the “finished product” radiates qualities of joy, compassion and peace.
I am discovering that when the surrounding culture is filled with chaos, it is important to journey inward. Inward is the one area where I do have some ability to grow/change/become. As I do this, I find myself in a deepening relationship with a big, big universe. When I have that feeling, I can sleep in peace and lie down in safety. Have a good, good day!
A prayer: God of my journey, empower me on my journey through difficult times. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.19.08
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, March 18
“Make a Joyful Noise”
“Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth;
Sing the glory of God’s name,
Give to God glorious praise.”
--A song from a joyful heart (Psalm 66: 1)
As we get closer to the moments when nature demonstrates her own form of re-creation, we focus on a little prayer that can help our souls dance with praise to God. Today I encourage you to spend some time with this observation from French philosopher and theologian Pierre Theilhard de Chardin.
“We are one, after all, you and I;
together we suffer,
together we exist,
and forever we will recreate each other.”
Ben Keckler
03.18.08
“Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth;
Sing the glory of God’s name,
Give to God glorious praise.”
--A song from a joyful heart (Psalm 66: 1)
As we get closer to the moments when nature demonstrates her own form of re-creation, we focus on a little prayer that can help our souls dance with praise to God. Today I encourage you to spend some time with this observation from French philosopher and theologian Pierre Theilhard de Chardin.
“We are one, after all, you and I;
together we suffer,
together we exist,
and forever we will recreate each other.”
Ben Keckler
03.18.08
Monday, March 17, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, March 17
Spring Fever
“I lift up my eyes to the hills — from where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
--Psalm 121: 1, 2
Spring Fever keeps calling us—come outside and enjoy the beauty of tulips and daffodils pushing up through the now thawed ground. Hints of springtime are becoming more evident everywhere. The birds are busy readying their houses and you can see the branches of trees telling us that they are eager to bud. The Creator of the heavens and the earth again reminds us that there is a great rhythm at work. In these days where troubles appear to take up too much headline space, we should all take time to be with the one whose springtime powers are again manifest — showing a creative touch more powerful than those who wield words and weapons. Today a prayer by Margueritte Harmon Bro expresses our kinship with creation:
Our Father, we thank thee for Trees!
We thank thee for the trees of our childhood
In whose shade we played and read and dreamed;
For the threes of our schooldays,
The trees along the paths where friendship walked.
We thank thee for special trees
Which will always stand large in our memory
Because for some reason of our own they became our trees.
We thank thee for the great stretches of trees, which make the forests.
May we always stand humbly before thy trees
And draw strength from them as they, in their turn,
Draw sustenance from thy bounties of earth and sun and air.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Ben Keckler
03.17.08
“I lift up my eyes to the hills — from where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
--Psalm 121: 1, 2
Spring Fever keeps calling us—come outside and enjoy the beauty of tulips and daffodils pushing up through the now thawed ground. Hints of springtime are becoming more evident everywhere. The birds are busy readying their houses and you can see the branches of trees telling us that they are eager to bud. The Creator of the heavens and the earth again reminds us that there is a great rhythm at work. In these days where troubles appear to take up too much headline space, we should all take time to be with the one whose springtime powers are again manifest — showing a creative touch more powerful than those who wield words and weapons. Today a prayer by Margueritte Harmon Bro expresses our kinship with creation:
Our Father, we thank thee for Trees!
We thank thee for the trees of our childhood
In whose shade we played and read and dreamed;
For the threes of our schooldays,
The trees along the paths where friendship walked.
We thank thee for special trees
Which will always stand large in our memory
Because for some reason of our own they became our trees.
We thank thee for the great stretches of trees, which make the forests.
May we always stand humbly before thy trees
And draw strength from them as they, in their turn,
Draw sustenance from thy bounties of earth and sun and air.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Ben Keckler
03.17.08
Friday, March 14, 2008
Daily Devotion - Friday, March 14
Revisiting A Theme
“Teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart.”
--Psalm 90: 12
One book that can be a helpful devotional book is Tuesdays with Morrie. Just a couple of weeks ago, I called our attention to the quote I am using again today. It deserves repetition!!!!! Morrie, as you may recall, is a retired college professor who is dying from ALS. His former student, hearing of his former professor’s illness, decides to take some of his Tuesdays flying from Detroit to Boston just to learn some more from Morrie.
“If you hold back on the emotions—if you don’t allow yourself to go all the way through them—you can never get to being detached, you’re too busy being afraid. You’re afraid of the pain, you’re afraid of the grief. You’re afraid of the vulnerability that loving entails. By throwing yourself into these emotions, by allowing yourself to dive in, all the way, over your head even, you experience them fully and completely. You know what pain is, what love is, what grief is.”
He then shares this powerful observation: “I know you think this is just about dying, but it’s like I keep telling you: When you learn how to die, you learn how to live.”
May your day and your weekend be filled with wonderful (difficult) encounters with the emotions of your soul.
A prayer for today: O God, give me courage to face the emotions of my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.14.08
“Teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart.”
--Psalm 90: 12
One book that can be a helpful devotional book is Tuesdays with Morrie. Just a couple of weeks ago, I called our attention to the quote I am using again today. It deserves repetition!!!!! Morrie, as you may recall, is a retired college professor who is dying from ALS. His former student, hearing of his former professor’s illness, decides to take some of his Tuesdays flying from Detroit to Boston just to learn some more from Morrie.
“If you hold back on the emotions—if you don’t allow yourself to go all the way through them—you can never get to being detached, you’re too busy being afraid. You’re afraid of the pain, you’re afraid of the grief. You’re afraid of the vulnerability that loving entails. By throwing yourself into these emotions, by allowing yourself to dive in, all the way, over your head even, you experience them fully and completely. You know what pain is, what love is, what grief is.”
He then shares this powerful observation: “I know you think this is just about dying, but it’s like I keep telling you: When you learn how to die, you learn how to live.”
May your day and your weekend be filled with wonderful (difficult) encounters with the emotions of your soul.
A prayer for today: O God, give me courage to face the emotions of my soul. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.14.08
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Daily Devotion - Thursday, March 13
Some Reflections On Prayer
“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
Lord, hear my voice!”
--Psalm 130: 1
Few people will deny that prayer is a significant part of life. Many people will say things like, “I don’t know where I would be right now if it weren’t for prayer.” Often the comment will be made, “I don’t pray as much as I should.” Like the writer of today’s meditative verse, a universal cry comes from the created to the Creator.
Even with all of this certainty about the significance of prayer, few people enter into the sacred moments of prayer as actively as we should or could. There is always one more phone call, one more letter, one more visit, one more meeting, one more party, one more TV show, one more page to read and… The insurmountable pile of activities surrounding us can win our attention and offer the tangible distraction, pulling us away from the centering process of prayer.
“The contrast between the great support for the idea of prayer and the lack of support for the practice of it is so blatantly visible that it becomes easy to believe in the power of the things that surround us.” (Nouwen, The Way of the Heart, p. 55)
Take time and, in the way that works for you, pray. May you have a day that is showered with blessings because you’ve taken the necessary time to center your life, allowing the divine to show you what is important for today.
A prayer for today: Allow me enough stillness, O God. Keep me centered, listening for you!
Ben Keckler
03.13.08
“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
Lord, hear my voice!”
--Psalm 130: 1
Few people will deny that prayer is a significant part of life. Many people will say things like, “I don’t know where I would be right now if it weren’t for prayer.” Often the comment will be made, “I don’t pray as much as I should.” Like the writer of today’s meditative verse, a universal cry comes from the created to the Creator.
Even with all of this certainty about the significance of prayer, few people enter into the sacred moments of prayer as actively as we should or could. There is always one more phone call, one more letter, one more visit, one more meeting, one more party, one more TV show, one more page to read and… The insurmountable pile of activities surrounding us can win our attention and offer the tangible distraction, pulling us away from the centering process of prayer.
“The contrast between the great support for the idea of prayer and the lack of support for the practice of it is so blatantly visible that it becomes easy to believe in the power of the things that surround us.” (Nouwen, The Way of the Heart, p. 55)
Take time and, in the way that works for you, pray. May you have a day that is showered with blessings because you’ve taken the necessary time to center your life, allowing the divine to show you what is important for today.
A prayer for today: Allow me enough stillness, O God. Keep me centered, listening for you!
Ben Keckler
03.13.08
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, March 12
A Prayer for the World
“May God be gracious to us and bless us,
may God’s face shine upon us….
May God continue to bless us; let all the ends of the earth honor the Lord.”
--Psalm 67: 1, 7
In today’s meditation verses we are introduced to an important, but seldom discussed aspect of spirituality. Generally, Sacred writings focus on the personalized prayers and desires of the individual and God. The 67th Psalm is very different, it is a song that speaks of the “community of faith” with all the personal pronouns in the “we” form rather than the “me” form.
Might there be a voice of common unity trying to emerge in our society; in the world? Can the voice of a community overshadow the voice of an individual? Is there more power in a united “we” than in the individual “me”?
Bringing the thought of community closer to home, the question becomes what is the common unity that brings us together. What community do you work in? We/I work in a hospital community. We are fortunate to have Vision and Mission statements. Today is a good day to read them and think about them. Recognize that embracing these statements is the foundation of our common-unity. After reading them, pause in a prayer using the two verses at the beginning of today’s meditation.
Have a good day.
Ben Keckler
03.12.08
“May God be gracious to us and bless us,
may God’s face shine upon us….
May God continue to bless us; let all the ends of the earth honor the Lord.”
--Psalm 67: 1, 7
In today’s meditation verses we are introduced to an important, but seldom discussed aspect of spirituality. Generally, Sacred writings focus on the personalized prayers and desires of the individual and God. The 67th Psalm is very different, it is a song that speaks of the “community of faith” with all the personal pronouns in the “we” form rather than the “me” form.
Might there be a voice of common unity trying to emerge in our society; in the world? Can the voice of a community overshadow the voice of an individual? Is there more power in a united “we” than in the individual “me”?
Bringing the thought of community closer to home, the question becomes what is the common unity that brings us together. What community do you work in? We/I work in a hospital community. We are fortunate to have Vision and Mission statements. Today is a good day to read them and think about them. Recognize that embracing these statements is the foundation of our common-unity. After reading them, pause in a prayer using the two verses at the beginning of today’s meditation.
Have a good day.
Ben Keckler
03.12.08
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, March 11
Needing Peace?
“Out of my distress I called on the Lord…
The Lord is my strength and my might;
God has become my salvation.”
--Psalm 118: 5, 14
In these troubling times, unsettling moments greet us daily. Some are close and personal, others are more global. The up close, personal things can grab us and really shake up all the things we are trying to balance. Ken Phifer’s prayer, “I Need a Sense of Peace,” is helpful:
Give me peace, O God, a central peace.
Let me know that at the heart of turbulence
There is the calm that comes from faith in you
That at the core of life there is great confidence
From which springs forth courage and gladness.
Give me a standing place in life
From where I may be able to look steadily
Upon the world without panic.
Out of my central peace,
Let there ripple forth concern and compassion,
Indignation at injustice and willingness to give of myself
Knowing your spirit is with me.
May I attain the feeling
That I have touched that central peace
The peace that abides amid the confusion of life. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.11.08
“Out of my distress I called on the Lord…
The Lord is my strength and my might;
God has become my salvation.”
--Psalm 118: 5, 14
In these troubling times, unsettling moments greet us daily. Some are close and personal, others are more global. The up close, personal things can grab us and really shake up all the things we are trying to balance. Ken Phifer’s prayer, “I Need a Sense of Peace,” is helpful:
Give me peace, O God, a central peace.
Let me know that at the heart of turbulence
There is the calm that comes from faith in you
That at the core of life there is great confidence
From which springs forth courage and gladness.
Give me a standing place in life
From where I may be able to look steadily
Upon the world without panic.
Out of my central peace,
Let there ripple forth concern and compassion,
Indignation at injustice and willingness to give of myself
Knowing your spirit is with me.
May I attain the feeling
That I have touched that central peace
The peace that abides amid the confusion of life. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.11.08
Monday, March 10, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, March 10
Some Reassuring Thoughts
“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
See if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Psalm 139: 23, 24
A few years ago writer David Hazard did some research on Francis of Assisi and was inspired to write a book of 40 meditations, A Day in Your Presence. From time to time in these next weeks we will reflect on some of the writings St. Francis left to inspire people. Obviously, St. Francis wrote from a Christian perspective. Some minor editing may be done from time to time as I address multiple faith groups.
“I am awed at the glory of it, amazed at the great and holy gift that is ours—to have a Creator who cares. Deep within me the very wonder of it burns with a holy fire. When I am faced with my own sin, it warms me with consolation. When I face a world of cruelty and vices, it brightens my soul with its beauty and with flames of holy wonder. To have a God who has willingly and lovingly promised to be ours forever!” --St. Francis, from his second letter to the faithful
As we begin this week, I trust that we will realize the gift that is within you and those around you.
A prayer for today: “In this moment, I want to be with you so that I may walk today in this thirsty world and carry with me a cool drink of your presence. Amen.”
Ben Keckler
03.10.08
“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
See if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Psalm 139: 23, 24
A few years ago writer David Hazard did some research on Francis of Assisi and was inspired to write a book of 40 meditations, A Day in Your Presence. From time to time in these next weeks we will reflect on some of the writings St. Francis left to inspire people. Obviously, St. Francis wrote from a Christian perspective. Some minor editing may be done from time to time as I address multiple faith groups.
“I am awed at the glory of it, amazed at the great and holy gift that is ours—to have a Creator who cares. Deep within me the very wonder of it burns with a holy fire. When I am faced with my own sin, it warms me with consolation. When I face a world of cruelty and vices, it brightens my soul with its beauty and with flames of holy wonder. To have a God who has willingly and lovingly promised to be ours forever!” --St. Francis, from his second letter to the faithful
As we begin this week, I trust that we will realize the gift that is within you and those around you.
A prayer for today: “In this moment, I want to be with you so that I may walk today in this thirsty world and carry with me a cool drink of your presence. Amen.”
Ben Keckler
03.10.08
Friday, March 7, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, March 7
Getting My Kite Ready
William Bennett, former Secretary of Education and Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities, has edited two wonderful books that should be a part of every home library around the world. One of those books, The Book Of Virtues, provides a brief story that offers a devotional moment for today:
“I never can do it,” the little kite said,
As he looked around at the others high over his head.
“I know I should fall if I tried to fly.”
“Try,” said the big kite, “only try!
Or I fear you never will learn at all.”
But the little kite said, “I’m afraid I’ll fall.”
The big kite nodded: “Ah well, goodbye;
I’m off,” and he rose toward the tranquil sky.
Then the little kite’s paper stirred at the sigh,
And trembling he shook himself free for flight.
First whirling and frightened, then braver grown,
Till the big kite looking down could see
The little one rising steadily.
Then how the little kite thrilled with pride,
As he sailed with the big kite side by side!
While far below he could see the ground,
And the bodies like small spots moving round.
They rested high in the quiet air,
And only the birds and the clouds were there.
“Oh, how happy I am!” the little kite cried,
“And all because I was brave, and tried.”
A prayer: God of courage, watch over me today as I take the steps I need to take. Particularly be near me in those unnerving moments when I need to “fly” in unfamiliar territories. In your name, Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.07.08
William Bennett, former Secretary of Education and Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities, has edited two wonderful books that should be a part of every home library around the world. One of those books, The Book Of Virtues, provides a brief story that offers a devotional moment for today:
“I never can do it,” the little kite said,
As he looked around at the others high over his head.
“I know I should fall if I tried to fly.”
“Try,” said the big kite, “only try!
Or I fear you never will learn at all.”
But the little kite said, “I’m afraid I’ll fall.”
The big kite nodded: “Ah well, goodbye;
I’m off,” and he rose toward the tranquil sky.
Then the little kite’s paper stirred at the sigh,
And trembling he shook himself free for flight.
First whirling and frightened, then braver grown,
Till the big kite looking down could see
The little one rising steadily.
Then how the little kite thrilled with pride,
As he sailed with the big kite side by side!
While far below he could see the ground,
And the bodies like small spots moving round.
They rested high in the quiet air,
And only the birds and the clouds were there.
“Oh, how happy I am!” the little kite cried,
“And all because I was brave, and tried.”
A prayer: God of courage, watch over me today as I take the steps I need to take. Particularly be near me in those unnerving moments when I need to “fly” in unfamiliar territories. In your name, Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.07.08
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, March 6
To Live or To LIVE?
“My soul thirsts for God, for the living God,
When shall I come and behold the face of God?”
--Psalm 42:2
From time to time we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having listened to Henri Nouwen’s presentations and sat at dinner with him at a conference, he feels like a friend, but a better term is “acquaintance.” Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
The past week has brought me near to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, on grief, loss, and recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following is an excerpt from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being 'better again' was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help in understanding what it means to “thirst for God.” Have a good day and enjoy every minute of life.
A prayer for today: Holy God, help and guide me today. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.06.08
“My soul thirsts for God, for the living God,
When shall I come and behold the face of God?”
--Psalm 42:2
From time to time we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having listened to Henri Nouwen’s presentations and sat at dinner with him at a conference, he feels like a friend, but a better term is “acquaintance.” Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
The past week has brought me near to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, on grief, loss, and recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following is an excerpt from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being 'better again' was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help in understanding what it means to “thirst for God.” Have a good day and enjoy every minute of life.
A prayer for today: Holy God, help and guide me today. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.06.08
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, March 5
A Worthy Question
“Where can I go from your spirit?
Or where can I flee from your presence?”
--Psalm 139: 7
The common theme within and among religions is spirituality. There is a common thread that does unite this global community. Obviously, weapons of mass destruction are not a common thread. Today the Psalm writer wrestles with the universality of Holy Presence by asking some critical questions.
Yesterday as I made rounds visiting with patients, I heard both patients and family members give me glowing reports about the tremendous care they were receiving. Each of us, regardless of occupation, continually could use a reminder: we can’t flee from the presence of the Divine. When we do take time to remember, we will develop a spirituality that allows people to experience a healing balm for their lives. We may not be able to stop the momentum of the global community, but each of us can do something important today—listen for and to the Divine.
A prayer for today: Holy God, remind me of my mortality and guide me in your paths. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.05.08
“Where can I go from your spirit?
Or where can I flee from your presence?”
--Psalm 139: 7
The common theme within and among religions is spirituality. There is a common thread that does unite this global community. Obviously, weapons of mass destruction are not a common thread. Today the Psalm writer wrestles with the universality of Holy Presence by asking some critical questions.
Yesterday as I made rounds visiting with patients, I heard both patients and family members give me glowing reports about the tremendous care they were receiving. Each of us, regardless of occupation, continually could use a reminder: we can’t flee from the presence of the Divine. When we do take time to remember, we will develop a spirituality that allows people to experience a healing balm for their lives. We may not be able to stop the momentum of the global community, but each of us can do something important today—listen for and to the Divine.
A prayer for today: Holy God, remind me of my mortality and guide me in your paths. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.05.08
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, March 4
A Prayer of Thanks and Praise
“O give thanks to the Lord,
for God is good and God’s steadfast love endures forever.”
--Psalm 136: 1
Today let us focus on giving thanks for the blessings we receive on the journey through life. Over the centuries many wonderful prayers of thanksgiving have expressed the theme of this verse. For today, a contemporary expression echoes the theme.
Loving God, we offer you thanks and praise
For all the surprising graces which come to us,
For those that sustain our lives and those that change them:
For food—familiar diets and startling new aromas and tastes;
For homes—places of steady surroundings and settings for redemptive love;
For friendships—old friends who are willingly open in their affection and their correction
and new friends who remind us that your spirited presence still dwells within us and others;
For tasks to perform—routine actions which we do well and which bring order to our days
and tasks at which we have failed, restoring a needed humility in us;
For your steadfast love—reminding us of our heritage
and enabling us to move into our tomorrows with confidence and courage.
We offer you thanks and praise, great and mighty God. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.04.08
“O give thanks to the Lord,
for God is good and God’s steadfast love endures forever.”
--Psalm 136: 1
Today let us focus on giving thanks for the blessings we receive on the journey through life. Over the centuries many wonderful prayers of thanksgiving have expressed the theme of this verse. For today, a contemporary expression echoes the theme.
Loving God, we offer you thanks and praise
For all the surprising graces which come to us,
For those that sustain our lives and those that change them:
For food—familiar diets and startling new aromas and tastes;
For homes—places of steady surroundings and settings for redemptive love;
For friendships—old friends who are willingly open in their affection and their correction
and new friends who remind us that your spirited presence still dwells within us and others;
For tasks to perform—routine actions which we do well and which bring order to our days
and tasks at which we have failed, restoring a needed humility in us;
For your steadfast love—reminding us of our heritage
and enabling us to move into our tomorrows with confidence and courage.
We offer you thanks and praise, great and mighty God. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.04.08
Monday, March 3, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, March 3
A Reflection On Prayer
“To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, do not refuse to hear me.
Hear the voice of my prayers as I cry to you for help,
as I lift up my hands toward your most holy sanctuary.”
--Psalm 28: 1, 2
Have you ever received one of those “forwarded” e-mails? Five years ago today I received the same e-mail from friends in 5 different states. The theme of the e-mail deserves some devotional thought today. You see, five years ago the date was 03-03-03. The e-mail encouraged all people (Christians actually) to pause in prayer at 3:03. The idea was that we should pray for our national leaders as well as military folk of this land, particularly in hot spots around the world. This was a most meaningful request, filled with hope that 3:03 on the 3rd day of the 3rd month of the 3rd year in this millennium could be a powerful moment.
As I tried to picture Christians around the world praying at 3:03, I kept thinking about faithful Islamic followers who are unashamed to pull out their prayer rug, take off their shoes and bow in prayer five times a day, not just one moment like 3:03 on 03-03-03. Some of them are friends and acquaintances of mine. Their faithfulness in prayer is powerful. What would happen if people of all religions would take time to pray each in their own way, each respecting the prayer life of the other?
Today’s meditation verse introduces us to a writer who was taking time to pray. Maybe a key to a peaceful world is greater faithfulness in prayer by every person of every religion in every part of the global village.
A prayer: In our troubled world today, we pray for leaders, defenders and for peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.03.08
“To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, do not refuse to hear me.
Hear the voice of my prayers as I cry to you for help,
as I lift up my hands toward your most holy sanctuary.”
--Psalm 28: 1, 2
Have you ever received one of those “forwarded” e-mails? Five years ago today I received the same e-mail from friends in 5 different states. The theme of the e-mail deserves some devotional thought today. You see, five years ago the date was 03-03-03. The e-mail encouraged all people (Christians actually) to pause in prayer at 3:03. The idea was that we should pray for our national leaders as well as military folk of this land, particularly in hot spots around the world. This was a most meaningful request, filled with hope that 3:03 on the 3rd day of the 3rd month of the 3rd year in this millennium could be a powerful moment.
As I tried to picture Christians around the world praying at 3:03, I kept thinking about faithful Islamic followers who are unashamed to pull out their prayer rug, take off their shoes and bow in prayer five times a day, not just one moment like 3:03 on 03-03-03. Some of them are friends and acquaintances of mine. Their faithfulness in prayer is powerful. What would happen if people of all religions would take time to pray each in their own way, each respecting the prayer life of the other?
Today’s meditation verse introduces us to a writer who was taking time to pray. Maybe a key to a peaceful world is greater faithfulness in prayer by every person of every religion in every part of the global village.
A prayer: In our troubled world today, we pray for leaders, defenders and for peace. Amen.
Ben Keckler
03.03.08
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