What are “health care services?”
“Our values state that we will provide compassionate health care services through quality improvement. Part of continuous quality improvement is investigating ways we can better serve our community by keeping our facilities up-to-date.”
--Dennis Dawes, president/ CEO of Hendricks Regional Health
I work in a health care facility. This devotion may seem specific to health care facilities, but take the concept and apply it to your work, your situation, your life.
It is pretty easy to think of health care services in terms of ICU staff providing special attention to a person on a ventilator. It is pretty easy to think of health care services in terms of the work that is provided by caregivers on any of the floor units. It is pretty easy to think about care giving in terms of the personal attention that a person receives at an immediate care facility, a Cancer Center or the doctor’s office. But health care services are more than the things that come to mind so quickly.
• Health Care Services include the tremendous work of the support services team—I always enjoy watching staff dry mopping the tile floors and stopping at every “black scuffmark” on the floor. They take this tennis ball that is fastened to a stick and in an instant the scuffmark is removed. Our support services provide us with clean facilities and this makes a real impression on consumers.
• Health Care Services include volunteers who willingly contribute their time and talent because they want to be here! Weekly I observe volunteers go the extra mile just to make certain that persons find the place to receive their needed “health care service.”
• Health Care Services include everything that happens in those facilities. Here at HRH we can be pleased to advertise that we have “state-of-the-art” facilities. From my vantage point we have “state-of-the-art” health care services.
“Let your light shine before others,
so that they may see your good works
and give glory to God.”
--Jesus, as recorded by Matthew (5:16)
A Prayer: Holy God, teach me the significance of my role in life. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.30.08
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, September 29
Providers of Compassion
“Our values state that we will provide compassionate health care services through quality improvement. Part of continuous quality improvement is investigating ways we can better serve our community by keeping our facilities up-to-date.”
--Dennis Dawes, president/ CEO of Hendricks Regional Health
How would you define compassion? In the health care field at HRH we do our work in a specific way. We do our work compassionately. What does this mean?
It means that we are first and foremost passionate people. We have a love within us that pervades our spirit and moves us to acts of mercy for and with people who seek health care services.
Compassion can be demonstrated in any field of work, not just health care. Daily we should take a serious look at ourselves. Are we/ Will we continue to demonstrate the value of compassion when all of a sudden we are faced with difficult challenges? It is important to keep our action focused on the value of compassion. As we continue to be providers of compassion we will stand in solidarity with the people with whom we work and associate.
Let your light shine before others,
so that they may see your good works
and give glory to God.
--Jesus, as recorded by Matthew (5:16)
A Prayer: God, empower me to be a provider of compassion. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.29.08
“Our values state that we will provide compassionate health care services through quality improvement. Part of continuous quality improvement is investigating ways we can better serve our community by keeping our facilities up-to-date.”
--Dennis Dawes, president/ CEO of Hendricks Regional Health
How would you define compassion? In the health care field at HRH we do our work in a specific way. We do our work compassionately. What does this mean?
It means that we are first and foremost passionate people. We have a love within us that pervades our spirit and moves us to acts of mercy for and with people who seek health care services.
Compassion can be demonstrated in any field of work, not just health care. Daily we should take a serious look at ourselves. Are we/ Will we continue to demonstrate the value of compassion when all of a sudden we are faced with difficult challenges? It is important to keep our action focused on the value of compassion. As we continue to be providers of compassion we will stand in solidarity with the people with whom we work and associate.
Let your light shine before others,
so that they may see your good works
and give glory to God.
--Jesus, as recorded by Matthew (5:16)
A Prayer: God, empower me to be a provider of compassion. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.29.08
Friday, September 26, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, September 26
A Simple Prayer
I am here in need,
I am here in pain,
I am here in straits,
I am here alone.
O God, aid me.
Have a good day. May this day and your entire weekend be filled with God.
Ben Keckler
09.26.08
I am here in need,
I am here in pain,
I am here in straits,
I am here alone.
O God, aid me.
Have a good day. May this day and your entire weekend be filled with God.
Ben Keckler
09.26.08
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, September 25
Devotions of Gratitude
Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them,
‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth…
I now establish my covenant with you and your descendants’…
--From the story of Noah (Genesis 9, selected verses)
In a few weeks I will celebrate a wonderful moment. I have to share its significance with you. 80 years ago my grandfather (Ben Keckler, Sr.) was ordained as a minister. My father (“Junior” as his brothers and sisters knew him) is still an active ordained minister and, of course, Ben 3rd is writing this devotional after 35 years of active ordained ministry. Just as the story of family and covenant relationship with God is told in the Noah story, so centuries later I can tell a story of God’s blessing. I am grateful for family.
I think of people listening to more than 1,500 sermons delivered by three generations with the name Ben Keckler. I think about the hundreds of weddings and even more funerals. I think about the more than 30,000 plus home and hospital visits that grandpa, dad and I have had the privilege of experiencing. I think of the literally thousands of people who have invited us into their lives to share God’s covenant love with them.
I am filled with gratitude today for a loving God, a faithful family and a wonderful heritage. Believe me when I tell you that God is good. In the midst of all the STUFF we go through, I can honestly tell you that God is in love with this world and will not keep it a secret. Have a great day.
A prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of family and the gift of your love. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.25.08
Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them,
‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth…
I now establish my covenant with you and your descendants’…
--From the story of Noah (Genesis 9, selected verses)
In a few weeks I will celebrate a wonderful moment. I have to share its significance with you. 80 years ago my grandfather (Ben Keckler, Sr.) was ordained as a minister. My father (“Junior” as his brothers and sisters knew him) is still an active ordained minister and, of course, Ben 3rd is writing this devotional after 35 years of active ordained ministry. Just as the story of family and covenant relationship with God is told in the Noah story, so centuries later I can tell a story of God’s blessing. I am grateful for family.
I think of people listening to more than 1,500 sermons delivered by three generations with the name Ben Keckler. I think about the hundreds of weddings and even more funerals. I think about the more than 30,000 plus home and hospital visits that grandpa, dad and I have had the privilege of experiencing. I think of the literally thousands of people who have invited us into their lives to share God’s covenant love with them.
I am filled with gratitude today for a loving God, a faithful family and a wonderful heritage. Believe me when I tell you that God is good. In the midst of all the STUFF we go through, I can honestly tell you that God is in love with this world and will not keep it a secret. Have a great day.
A prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of family and the gift of your love. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.25.08
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, September 24
Devotions of Gratitude
Do not forsake your friend….
--A wisdom phrase (Proverbs 27:10)
One of the joys of life can be found at tailgate parties all across our land. Some tailgates are on Friday evening – high school events; some are on Saturday – college events; and some are on Sunday – professional events. For a number of years our family purchased season tickets from our football college of choice and had different friends join us for each weekend.
I still remember the weekend when our very special friends from Pennsylvania joined us for a victory over the Irish. Some years ago our sons were offensive linemen for their high school championship team and their son went on to a very wonderful career at Cornell University. The great part of the weekend was that we were able to pick up right where we left off. While we do stay in touch through e-mail and occasional phone visits, it was really super to spend the weekend laughing and filling in the details of recent years. Friendship is very special!
Next month some very special friends will arrive in Indianapolis and we will celebrate their daughter's wedding. We won't tailgate this time, but once again we will enjoy the gift of friendship.
Honoring the gift of friendship is important. It takes commitment and energy, but the feeling in the heart at the conclusion of a great weekend is difficult to match. Enjoy the friends you have and expand your circle of friends. You will be surrounded by one of life’s great treasures.
A prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of friendship. Accept my gratitude today.
Ben Keckler
09.24.08
Do not forsake your friend….
--A wisdom phrase (Proverbs 27:10)
One of the joys of life can be found at tailgate parties all across our land. Some tailgates are on Friday evening – high school events; some are on Saturday – college events; and some are on Sunday – professional events. For a number of years our family purchased season tickets from our football college of choice and had different friends join us for each weekend.
I still remember the weekend when our very special friends from Pennsylvania joined us for a victory over the Irish. Some years ago our sons were offensive linemen for their high school championship team and their son went on to a very wonderful career at Cornell University. The great part of the weekend was that we were able to pick up right where we left off. While we do stay in touch through e-mail and occasional phone visits, it was really super to spend the weekend laughing and filling in the details of recent years. Friendship is very special!
Next month some very special friends will arrive in Indianapolis and we will celebrate their daughter's wedding. We won't tailgate this time, but once again we will enjoy the gift of friendship.
Honoring the gift of friendship is important. It takes commitment and energy, but the feeling in the heart at the conclusion of a great weekend is difficult to match. Enjoy the friends you have and expand your circle of friends. You will be surrounded by one of life’s great treasures.
A prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of friendship. Accept my gratitude today.
Ben Keckler
09.24.08
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, September 23
Devotions of Gratitude
For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith,
I have not stopped giving thanks for you,
remembering you in my prayers.
--A follower (Ephesians 1: 15)
What a privilege to work side by side with people who care! At the hospital where I work we have a chaplaincy program known as Teddy Bear Ministry. A longtime volunteer had the vision of providing solace objects for cancer patients. This ministry has now been expanded in a variety of directions beyond the cancer patients. We are grateful for that volunteer’s vision.
Just this week one of the area churches dropped off 174 stuffed animals as their annual participation gift in the Teddy Bear Ministry. We are grateful for the participation of the community in a ministry that benefits so many of our patients.
As a side, there are some communities that have a Teddy Bear Ministry through the Police Department. The police cars carry the stuffed animals in their car trunks. When the officers find a situation where a child would benefit from a solace object, the “teddy bear” is right there.
A prayer: Thanks be to you, O God, for compassion demonstrated in the workplace. Show me ways I can provide solace to others in the workplace and beyond.
Ben Keckler
09.23.08
For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith,
I have not stopped giving thanks for you,
remembering you in my prayers.
--A follower (Ephesians 1: 15)
What a privilege to work side by side with people who care! At the hospital where I work we have a chaplaincy program known as Teddy Bear Ministry. A longtime volunteer had the vision of providing solace objects for cancer patients. This ministry has now been expanded in a variety of directions beyond the cancer patients. We are grateful for that volunteer’s vision.
Just this week one of the area churches dropped off 174 stuffed animals as their annual participation gift in the Teddy Bear Ministry. We are grateful for the participation of the community in a ministry that benefits so many of our patients.
As a side, there are some communities that have a Teddy Bear Ministry through the Police Department. The police cars carry the stuffed animals in their car trunks. When the officers find a situation where a child would benefit from a solace object, the “teddy bear” is right there.
A prayer: Thanks be to you, O God, for compassion demonstrated in the workplace. Show me ways I can provide solace to others in the workplace and beyond.
Ben Keckler
09.23.08
Monday, September 22, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, September 22
Devotions of Gratitude
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself.
--Jesus (as remembered by Matthew 6:34)
Amazing, absolutely amazing! This simple sentence expresses the feeling I had throughout one of my drives to work. There are a handful of stories available for this devotion. Here is a remarkable story I’ll call “A Lady Bug and A Commute.”
While backing the car out of the driveway, a ladybug landed in the middle of the windshield. As the car started forward, the ladybug quit walking and stayed very still. Each time the car stopped for a traffic light the ladybug would continue its trek across the driver’s side of the windshield. The commute took us onto the middle lane of interstate, still the ladybug held on. After several miles with cars and trucks passing on either side, “we” exited onto Route 36. My traveling companion stayed with me until she flew away on her terms while we were stopped at a traffic light.
The thought I’m dwelling on: “If that little ladybug was protected until it was time to fly, won’t I be protected until it is time to fly?” The answer may vary depending on the situation, but I think I’ve got enough clarity for now.
A prayer: Continue to be my shield and defender, O gracious God. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.22.08
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself.
--Jesus (as remembered by Matthew 6:34)
Amazing, absolutely amazing! This simple sentence expresses the feeling I had throughout one of my drives to work. There are a handful of stories available for this devotion. Here is a remarkable story I’ll call “A Lady Bug and A Commute.”
While backing the car out of the driveway, a ladybug landed in the middle of the windshield. As the car started forward, the ladybug quit walking and stayed very still. Each time the car stopped for a traffic light the ladybug would continue its trek across the driver’s side of the windshield. The commute took us onto the middle lane of interstate, still the ladybug held on. After several miles with cars and trucks passing on either side, “we” exited onto Route 36. My traveling companion stayed with me until she flew away on her terms while we were stopped at a traffic light.
The thought I’m dwelling on: “If that little ladybug was protected until it was time to fly, won’t I be protected until it is time to fly?” The answer may vary depending on the situation, but I think I’ve got enough clarity for now.
A prayer: Continue to be my shield and defender, O gracious God. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.22.08
Friday, September 19, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, September 19
Prayer of St. Francis
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?
I will sing and make music to the Lord my God.
--Psalm 27, selected verses
Excerpts from a prayer of St. Francis as he spent time in solitude:
You are holy, Lord, you are the only God
And all your works are wondrous.
You are strong,
You are great,
You are most high.
You, most holy, are the Lord of heaven and earth!
You are the mystery, the Lord God above all gods.
You are good,
You are all good,
You are the highest good.
Lord of all, God of all, ever living and ever true.
You are the fire of love itself.
You are our
Wisdom, humility, patience, beauty, meekness, security, inner peace and our joy.
Great and wonderful Lord!
You are God who lives forever, offering me life!
I pray that you will have a blessed weekend, filled with good.
Ben Keckler
09.19.08
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?
I will sing and make music to the Lord my God.
--Psalm 27, selected verses
Excerpts from a prayer of St. Francis as he spent time in solitude:
You are holy, Lord, you are the only God
And all your works are wondrous.
You are strong,
You are great,
You are most high.
You, most holy, are the Lord of heaven and earth!
You are the mystery, the Lord God above all gods.
You are good,
You are all good,
You are the highest good.
Lord of all, God of all, ever living and ever true.
You are the fire of love itself.
You are our
Wisdom, humility, patience, beauty, meekness, security, inner peace and our joy.
Great and wonderful Lord!
You are God who lives forever, offering me life!
I pray that you will have a blessed weekend, filled with good.
Ben Keckler
09.19.08
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, September 18
Solitude
Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
--Psalm 46: 10
This whole idea of solitude and stillness can be a little overdone, can’t it? I don’t think so! In times of solitude it is important to focus on “centering of self” and to concentrate on the stirrings within our own soul. To be anchored within is important—when we are anchored, we don’t drift as we work on the things that need to be done.
Take time to center yourself today. When centered remember those who are in difficult places:
• The thousands and thousands who are displaced by Hurricane Ike.
• Those who will face hardships whether because of the hurricane or because they will receive other unsettling news today.
May your time of solitude be spent doing what you need to do. Have a good day.
A prayer: God, help me in my relative ease to always remember those who are uneasy. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.18.08
Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
--Psalm 46: 10
This whole idea of solitude and stillness can be a little overdone, can’t it? I don’t think so! In times of solitude it is important to focus on “centering of self” and to concentrate on the stirrings within our own soul. To be anchored within is important—when we are anchored, we don’t drift as we work on the things that need to be done.
Take time to center yourself today. When centered remember those who are in difficult places:
• The thousands and thousands who are displaced by Hurricane Ike.
• Those who will face hardships whether because of the hurricane or because they will receive other unsettling news today.
May your time of solitude be spent doing what you need to do. Have a good day.
A prayer: God, help me in my relative ease to always remember those who are uneasy. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.18.08
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, September 17
The Discipline of Solitude
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord;
Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.
--Psalm 130: 1, 2
Every so often we can feel like we are “in the depths”. When this feeling arrives (and arrive it will) the natural tendency is to turn to someone who can guide us through, who can pray for us, who can focus attention on our needs. One method of self-care that each of us can develop is learning the discipline of solitude.
Generally we opt for noise, busy-ness and activity as the surroundings that help us get through. Each can be helpful. Learning to experience the splendor of solitude can be as helpful; in fact, probably far more helpful. Entering a private room and shutting the door does not remove our doubts, fears, bad memories, angry feelings, impulsive desires, or unresolved stuff. Entering a solitary place does help us to define what is going on. Entering a solitary place does help us to encounter the “presence” that can help us gain clarity.
Mercy and grace are always present for us to access. The practice of solitude will help us to get there. Start with small segments of time (5 or 10 minutes) and keep increasing your allocated time until you reach what works for you.
A prayer: Guide me, O Holy God, toward solitary places where I can discover that I am not alone. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.17.08
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord;
Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.
--Psalm 130: 1, 2
Every so often we can feel like we are “in the depths”. When this feeling arrives (and arrive it will) the natural tendency is to turn to someone who can guide us through, who can pray for us, who can focus attention on our needs. One method of self-care that each of us can develop is learning the discipline of solitude.
Generally we opt for noise, busy-ness and activity as the surroundings that help us get through. Each can be helpful. Learning to experience the splendor of solitude can be as helpful; in fact, probably far more helpful. Entering a private room and shutting the door does not remove our doubts, fears, bad memories, angry feelings, impulsive desires, or unresolved stuff. Entering a solitary place does help us to define what is going on. Entering a solitary place does help us to encounter the “presence” that can help us gain clarity.
Mercy and grace are always present for us to access. The practice of solitude will help us to get there. Start with small segments of time (5 or 10 minutes) and keep increasing your allocated time until you reach what works for you.
A prayer: Guide me, O Holy God, toward solitary places where I can discover that I am not alone. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.17.08
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, September 16
Needing Solitude
“My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from my Creator.”
--Psalm 62: 1
Have you ever received one of those dreaded phone calls? I can remember several times when such a call came, informing me of a sudden traumatic death. One event I recall involved a very good friend’s brother who was killed instantly in a freak accident. My friend was totally numb. I talked with her in the hours that followed the tragedy. During one talk she indicated that she had said all that needed to be said and that it was time for her to be alone.
This friend continues to develop her ability to be attentive to God’s voice. She continues to learn that solitude is important, particularly when you feel bombarded by the many thoughts and feelings that emerge from difficult, daily living. The ability to withdraw from surrounding distractions takes time to develop. I am confident that my friend grew stronger that night when she declared that it was time to enter a solitary place!
While I hated to leave her alone in her pain, I knew that the best way for her to deal with her emptiness, loss, anger and grief was some quiet time with God. The Sacred writings tell stories about times when people found it helpful to enter into solitude. Even if it is only for a few minutes, take some time today for some solitary moments with God.
A prayer: God bless my moments of solitude with your presence. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.16.08
“My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from my Creator.”
--Psalm 62: 1
Have you ever received one of those dreaded phone calls? I can remember several times when such a call came, informing me of a sudden traumatic death. One event I recall involved a very good friend’s brother who was killed instantly in a freak accident. My friend was totally numb. I talked with her in the hours that followed the tragedy. During one talk she indicated that she had said all that needed to be said and that it was time for her to be alone.
This friend continues to develop her ability to be attentive to God’s voice. She continues to learn that solitude is important, particularly when you feel bombarded by the many thoughts and feelings that emerge from difficult, daily living. The ability to withdraw from surrounding distractions takes time to develop. I am confident that my friend grew stronger that night when she declared that it was time to enter a solitary place!
While I hated to leave her alone in her pain, I knew that the best way for her to deal with her emptiness, loss, anger and grief was some quiet time with God. The Sacred writings tell stories about times when people found it helpful to enter into solitude. Even if it is only for a few minutes, take some time today for some solitary moments with God.
A prayer: God bless my moments of solitude with your presence. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.16.08
Monday, September 15, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, September 15
Solitude
Answer me when I call to you,
O my righteous God.
Be merciful to me and hear my prayer.
--Psalm 4: 1
Solitude is probably one of the most significant disciplines a person can possess. Solitude is a time of “uninterruptedness.” Solitude is a time when we can reflect or pray, a time when we intentionally limit outside distractions so that the “inside noises” can be examined and (dare I say it) confessed to the silence (to the Holy, to God).
I can still recall one powerful moment of solitude I was privileged to observe. It was powerful. I simply stayed quiet and watched a person deal with their fears, their unresolved “stuff” and their anxiety. Nothing was said for an extended period of time. It was only silence. After a period of time the person looked at me and nodded. “Are you in a better place now?” I asked. The person nodded again. I left.
Sometimes the confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure. But when we take time to honor solitude, we honor the mysterious presence of the Divine to bring us what we need for the moment. Do not be afraid of solitude, move toward it. You will not be disappointed.
A prayer: Help me to move away from the noise to places of solitude. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.15.08
Answer me when I call to you,
O my righteous God.
Be merciful to me and hear my prayer.
--Psalm 4: 1
Solitude is probably one of the most significant disciplines a person can possess. Solitude is a time of “uninterruptedness.” Solitude is a time when we can reflect or pray, a time when we intentionally limit outside distractions so that the “inside noises” can be examined and (dare I say it) confessed to the silence (to the Holy, to God).
I can still recall one powerful moment of solitude I was privileged to observe. It was powerful. I simply stayed quiet and watched a person deal with their fears, their unresolved “stuff” and their anxiety. Nothing was said for an extended period of time. It was only silence. After a period of time the person looked at me and nodded. “Are you in a better place now?” I asked. The person nodded again. I left.
Sometimes the confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure. But when we take time to honor solitude, we honor the mysterious presence of the Divine to bring us what we need for the moment. Do not be afraid of solitude, move toward it. You will not be disappointed.
A prayer: Help me to move away from the noise to places of solitude. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.15.08
Friday, September 12, 2008
Daily Devotions - September 12
When We Feel Broken
Planning a vacation generally hinges on knowing your destination. The same could be said about journeying through brokenness. The destination point is common for all; it’s the point of acceptance and peace. Some call it resolution. We’ve covered a number of “overnight” stays this week. One final spot for an overnight is the “hotel of recovery and new life.”
When we take our time to really experience the points along the road to acceptance, we need to spend time celebrating the reality that we have recovered. Recovery can be recognized. Recovery is a time when you take your cherished pre-broken memories and celebrate what was, what is and what will always be! Recovery is that time when you discover an abiding, invisible presence empowering you just like you “used to be” empowered. Recovery is a time for continuing the relationship in a new and dynamic way. Life is life again!
The “hotel of recovery and new life” is our last stop this week. Truly, I hope you have a great weekend.
Ben Keckler
09.12.08
Planning a vacation generally hinges on knowing your destination. The same could be said about journeying through brokenness. The destination point is common for all; it’s the point of acceptance and peace. Some call it resolution. We’ve covered a number of “overnight” stays this week. One final spot for an overnight is the “hotel of recovery and new life.”
When we take our time to really experience the points along the road to acceptance, we need to spend time celebrating the reality that we have recovered. Recovery can be recognized. Recovery is a time when you take your cherished pre-broken memories and celebrate what was, what is and what will always be! Recovery is that time when you discover an abiding, invisible presence empowering you just like you “used to be” empowered. Recovery is a time for continuing the relationship in a new and dynamic way. Life is life again!
The “hotel of recovery and new life” is our last stop this week. Truly, I hope you have a great weekend.
Ben Keckler
09.12.08
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, September 11
When We Feel Broken
There is a highway in the coal mining regions of Pennsylvania that runs through the town of Centralia. The town is a modern day ghost town because there are continual underground fires smoldering in the old mines. Centralia, once a place of busyness because of the mining business, is now abandoned.
Grief, loss and change can cause the fire within to dwindle and become nothing more than smoldering coals. We feel abandoned, lonely and fearful. Feeling forsaken is normal. Experiencing physical symptoms due to distress is common. Seeking help and support from professional caregivers and people you trust can be beneficial.
One ancient writer who had reasons to feel abandoned felt inner relief one day and proclaimed: “Now says the Lord…., Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43)
When you feel abandoned and lonely, do not fear for the Holy One is with you.
Ben Keckler
09.11.08
There is a highway in the coal mining regions of Pennsylvania that runs through the town of Centralia. The town is a modern day ghost town because there are continual underground fires smoldering in the old mines. Centralia, once a place of busyness because of the mining business, is now abandoned.
Grief, loss and change can cause the fire within to dwindle and become nothing more than smoldering coals. We feel abandoned, lonely and fearful. Feeling forsaken is normal. Experiencing physical symptoms due to distress is common. Seeking help and support from professional caregivers and people you trust can be beneficial.
One ancient writer who had reasons to feel abandoned felt inner relief one day and proclaimed: “Now says the Lord…., Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43)
When you feel abandoned and lonely, do not fear for the Holy One is with you.
Ben Keckler
09.11.08
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, September 10
When We Feel Broken
“If only I would have”…..; “I could have” …..; “I should have”…..--- are all phrases we often use as we react to and reflect upon a given situation, particularly a painful situation. The “would have, could have, should have” statements are ways we deal with guilt. Almost everyone likes to believe they are in control. Almost everyone likes to believe they are covering all the details related to life. Then, reality comes. We are reminded about our inability to control. We discover that we failed to complete some now realized, but then overlooked, details.
After the shock and anger start to subside, we are faced with guilt and pain. Maybe those “would have, could have, should have” statements are true; maybe they are no more than wish-filled projections that we believe might have made a difference. In every case, there are at least two things to remember. First, billions of others are dealing with feelings similar to those we are feeling in our brokenness. Second, there is a steadfast love present within us to forgive and to encourage us to forge ahead as we face our brokenness.
God be with you.
A Prayer: Let me feel your steadfast love in the morning and throughout this day, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.10.08
“If only I would have”…..; “I could have” …..; “I should have”…..--- are all phrases we often use as we react to and reflect upon a given situation, particularly a painful situation. The “would have, could have, should have” statements are ways we deal with guilt. Almost everyone likes to believe they are in control. Almost everyone likes to believe they are covering all the details related to life. Then, reality comes. We are reminded about our inability to control. We discover that we failed to complete some now realized, but then overlooked, details.
After the shock and anger start to subside, we are faced with guilt and pain. Maybe those “would have, could have, should have” statements are true; maybe they are no more than wish-filled projections that we believe might have made a difference. In every case, there are at least two things to remember. First, billions of others are dealing with feelings similar to those we are feeling in our brokenness. Second, there is a steadfast love present within us to forgive and to encourage us to forge ahead as we face our brokenness.
God be with you.
A Prayer: Let me feel your steadfast love in the morning and throughout this day, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.10.08
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, September 9
When We Feel Broken
We’ve all heard the phrase “You’ve got to get over it!” We’ve probably all spoken that phrase at one time or another. When something is broken we either fix it or throw it away. In doing this we “get over it.” But, when it comes to our inner brokenness, we rebel when others try to “fix it” and we are frustrated because we can’t throw “it” away.
We know that there is no answer to “why?” Because there is no answer we can easily get stuck in the anger/resentment stage. When you are stuck or you know others who are stuck, remember to “be still” and trust that the rhythm of life will see you and them through.
A Prayer: Help me to work through my stuff and not feel pressured to get over it, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.09.08
We’ve all heard the phrase “You’ve got to get over it!” We’ve probably all spoken that phrase at one time or another. When something is broken we either fix it or throw it away. In doing this we “get over it.” But, when it comes to our inner brokenness, we rebel when others try to “fix it” and we are frustrated because we can’t throw “it” away.
We know that there is no answer to “why?” Because there is no answer we can easily get stuck in the anger/resentment stage. When you are stuck or you know others who are stuck, remember to “be still” and trust that the rhythm of life will see you and them through.
A Prayer: Help me to work through my stuff and not feel pressured to get over it, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.09.08
Monday, September 8, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, September 8
When We Feel Broken
The feeling of brokenness is a real feeling. We live in a terrified world; it is something I could see in the eyes of many Rwandan people as I traveled there a few weeks ago. There are literally billions around the world who are able to relate to this dark, cold feeling.
An early stage is experienced when shock and disbelief dominate our thoughts and our feelings. Listen to your heart and listen to the heart of others this week.
The words of disbelief must be acknowledged if we are going to continue to grow and become all that we are created to be. To heal we must fully talk about the inner trauma that we sense when brokenness visits us.
A Prayer: Let me examine the broken spaces and places in my life without fear, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.08.08
The feeling of brokenness is a real feeling. We live in a terrified world; it is something I could see in the eyes of many Rwandan people as I traveled there a few weeks ago. There are literally billions around the world who are able to relate to this dark, cold feeling.
An early stage is experienced when shock and disbelief dominate our thoughts and our feelings. Listen to your heart and listen to the heart of others this week.
The words of disbelief must be acknowledged if we are going to continue to grow and become all that we are created to be. To heal we must fully talk about the inner trauma that we sense when brokenness visits us.
A Prayer: Let me examine the broken spaces and places in my life without fear, O God.
Ben Keckler
09.08.08
Friday, September 5, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, September 5
Listening To Our Heart
Our work week comes to an end with this story from the life of Morrie Schwartz, as recounted by Mitch Albom in Tuesdays with Morrie. Morrie is nearing his death when he shares this insight with Mitch. It seems Morrie has learned the value of listening to his heart.
“I heard a nice little story the other day,” Morrie says. He closes his eyes for a moment and I wait.
“Okay. The story is about a little wave, bobbing along in the ocean, having a grand old time. He’s enjoying the wind and the fresh air—until he notices the other waves in front of him crashing against the shore. ‘My God, this is terrible,’ the wave says. ‘Look what’s going to happen to me!’ Then along comes another wave. It sees the first wave, looking grim, and it says to him, ‘Why do you look so sad?’ The first wave says, ‘You don’t understand! We’re all going to crash! All of us waves are going to be nothing! Isn’t it terrible?’ The second wave says, ‘No, YOU don’t understand. You’re not a wave, you’re part of the ocean.’”
I smile, Mitch says. Morrie closed his eyes again and said:
“Part of the ocean, part of the ocean.”
Ben Keckler
09.05.08
Our work week comes to an end with this story from the life of Morrie Schwartz, as recounted by Mitch Albom in Tuesdays with Morrie. Morrie is nearing his death when he shares this insight with Mitch. It seems Morrie has learned the value of listening to his heart.
“I heard a nice little story the other day,” Morrie says. He closes his eyes for a moment and I wait.
“Okay. The story is about a little wave, bobbing along in the ocean, having a grand old time. He’s enjoying the wind and the fresh air—until he notices the other waves in front of him crashing against the shore. ‘My God, this is terrible,’ the wave says. ‘Look what’s going to happen to me!’ Then along comes another wave. It sees the first wave, looking grim, and it says to him, ‘Why do you look so sad?’ The first wave says, ‘You don’t understand! We’re all going to crash! All of us waves are going to be nothing! Isn’t it terrible?’ The second wave says, ‘No, YOU don’t understand. You’re not a wave, you’re part of the ocean.’”
I smile, Mitch says. Morrie closed his eyes again and said:
“Part of the ocean, part of the ocean.”
Ben Keckler
09.05.08
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, September 4
Listening To Our Heart
In life we don’t have all of the answers.
We won’t have all of the answers.
Sometimes we have to go forward without the answers.
The answers from the tragedy become clearer----down the road.
We will never understand all of life before we need to start living life.
We have to live first to learn the answers.
A prayer for today: God, may I live today fully aware that I can learn more answers as I listen to my heart. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.04.08
In life we don’t have all of the answers.
We won’t have all of the answers.
Sometimes we have to go forward without the answers.
The answers from the tragedy become clearer----down the road.
We will never understand all of life before we need to start living life.
We have to live first to learn the answers.
A prayer for today: God, may I live today fully aware that I can learn more answers as I listen to my heart. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.04.08
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, September 3
Listening To Our Heart
Today is a good day to meditate on this story from the philosopher Chuang Tzu:
"The purpose of a fish trap is to catch fish,
And when the fish are caught, the trap is forgotten.
The purpose of a rabbit snare is to catch rabbits.
When the rabbits are caught, the snare is forgotten.
The purpose of the word is to convey ideas.
When the ideas are grasped, the words are forgotten.
Where can I find a person who has forgotten words?
This is the one I would like to talk to."
Remember that even in silence there is a great deal that is being said.
Enjoy listening today.
Ben Keckler
09.03.08
Today is a good day to meditate on this story from the philosopher Chuang Tzu:
"The purpose of a fish trap is to catch fish,
And when the fish are caught, the trap is forgotten.
The purpose of a rabbit snare is to catch rabbits.
When the rabbits are caught, the snare is forgotten.
The purpose of the word is to convey ideas.
When the ideas are grasped, the words are forgotten.
Where can I find a person who has forgotten words?
This is the one I would like to talk to."
Remember that even in silence there is a great deal that is being said.
Enjoy listening today.
Ben Keckler
09.03.08
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, September 2
“Listening To Our Heart”
Receive this prayer, attributed to St. Francis, a person who listened from the heart.
Lord,
Make me an instrument of thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.
Divine Master, grant
That I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Have a better day today as you listen to your heart.
Ben Keckler
09.02.08
Receive this prayer, attributed to St. Francis, a person who listened from the heart.
Lord,
Make me an instrument of thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.
Divine Master, grant
That I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Have a better day today as you listen to your heart.
Ben Keckler
09.02.08
Daily Devotions - Monday, September 1
“Listening To Our Heart”
Expand my awareness, O God,
to others whom I will see today and tomorrow.
Help me to look for the signs
of our common humanity as we share our lives with each other.
Help me to listen to what my heart is saying and,
help me to listen to what others are saying to me.
May I hear both the words they speak and the things they are really saying.
Sensitize me to the cries for help that all of us bury deep in our hearts.
Remind me of your steadfast love and help me to reflect your love to others.
Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.01.08
Expand my awareness, O God,
to others whom I will see today and tomorrow.
Help me to look for the signs
of our common humanity as we share our lives with each other.
Help me to listen to what my heart is saying and,
help me to listen to what others are saying to me.
May I hear both the words they speak and the things they are really saying.
Sensitize me to the cries for help that all of us bury deep in our hearts.
Remind me of your steadfast love and help me to reflect your love to others.
Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.01.08
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