Thanksgiving Week
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
One hymn writer wrote:
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices
Who wondrous things have done
In you this world rejoices.
Who from our mother’s arms,
You’ve blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love
Which still are ours today.
Today, throughout our society, there are people who are working while other employed folk are on-call and others are enjoying a day off to celebrate the day of Thanksgiving. Thanks to all who are working today.
We have all been blessed with countless gifts of love and today, whether in our homes or in our places of employment, I trust that we will stop and be thankful.
A prayer for today: Gracious God, help me to see you more clearly and love you more dearly as I live today in thanksgiving to You. Amen.
Ben Keckler
11.27.08
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, November 26
Thanksgiving Week
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
A little “groaner” before your holiday consumption: Why do we have three different names for that bread mixture that cooks inside the turkey?
Well, if you eat only one serving, it is best to call it dressing.
But, because it is so good and we have a second serving, some like to call it filling. Only in America, is there enough to have a bit more. So that makes it stuffing!
It is hard to fathom, but it is true. Today and tomorrow there will be at least several hundred thousand (actually, it is probably in the millions) pies baked that would not normally be baked on a Wednesday/Thursday in our great land. More bread is being purchased than on any other day of the year. And the list goes on!
Here in the greater Indianapolis area, in excess of 25,000 meals will be delivered tomorrow to families who cannot support a Thanksgiving feast on their own. There are also details about places where free meals are being served. Realizing our blessings, we share with our brothers and sisters. It is good to remember that hungry people will be around us throughout these next months of the winter season. Canned goods for food banks are so very helpful. Making regular donations demonstrates our thankful spirit all winter long! Allow me to conclude today’s devotions with this prayer for the hungry:
God of our lives,
Help us always remember that it is you whom we behold
In weakened bodies and haunting faces of hungry folk.
Grant that we may not turn away but that we may find ways
To share your blessings that we’ve received
With those who do not have. Amen.
HAVE A GOOD THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY!
Ben Keckler
11.26.08
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
A little “groaner” before your holiday consumption: Why do we have three different names for that bread mixture that cooks inside the turkey?
Well, if you eat only one serving, it is best to call it dressing.
But, because it is so good and we have a second serving, some like to call it filling. Only in America, is there enough to have a bit more. So that makes it stuffing!
It is hard to fathom, but it is true. Today and tomorrow there will be at least several hundred thousand (actually, it is probably in the millions) pies baked that would not normally be baked on a Wednesday/Thursday in our great land. More bread is being purchased than on any other day of the year. And the list goes on!
Here in the greater Indianapolis area, in excess of 25,000 meals will be delivered tomorrow to families who cannot support a Thanksgiving feast on their own. There are also details about places where free meals are being served. Realizing our blessings, we share with our brothers and sisters. It is good to remember that hungry people will be around us throughout these next months of the winter season. Canned goods for food banks are so very helpful. Making regular donations demonstrates our thankful spirit all winter long! Allow me to conclude today’s devotions with this prayer for the hungry:
God of our lives,
Help us always remember that it is you whom we behold
In weakened bodies and haunting faces of hungry folk.
Grant that we may not turn away but that we may find ways
To share your blessings that we’ve received
With those who do not have. Amen.
HAVE A GOOD THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY!
Ben Keckler
11.26.08
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, November 25
Thanksgiving Week: Healing Words
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
Remembering: God has been and is faithful.
Reflecting: Our ancestors demonstrated their belief that God has been and is faithful, establishing a day solely for the purpose of giving thanks to God.
Honoring: As we remember and we reflect, may our lives be motivated to demonstrate fully, by word and deed, a spirit of thanksgiving to God — our refuge and fortress, the One in whom we trust.
A prayer: Holy God, may my life reflect a spirit of thanksgiving. Amen.
Ben Keckler
11.25.08
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
Remembering: God has been and is faithful.
Reflecting: Our ancestors demonstrated their belief that God has been and is faithful, establishing a day solely for the purpose of giving thanks to God.
Honoring: As we remember and we reflect, may our lives be motivated to demonstrate fully, by word and deed, a spirit of thanksgiving to God — our refuge and fortress, the One in whom we trust.
A prayer: Holy God, may my life reflect a spirit of thanksgiving. Amen.
Ben Keckler
11.25.08
Monday, November 24, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, November 24
Thanksgiving Week: Healing Words
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
One of the enjoyable, insightful writers of the past couple of decades is Madeleine L’Engle. She offers these words for us to think about as we begin a special week, preparing for a day of Thanksgiving.
It is no coincidence that the root word of whole, health, heal, and holy is hale (as in hale and hearty). If we are healed, we become whole; we are hale and hearty; we are holy.
The marvelous thing is that this holiness is nothing we can earn.
We don’t become holy by acquiring merit badges and Brownie points.
It has nothing to do with virtue or job descriptions or morality.
It is nothing we can do, in this do-it-yourself world.
It is gift, sheer gift, waiting there to be recognized and received.
A prayer: Holy One, fill this week with people who are eagerly journeying toward being hale and hearty people. Amen.
Ben Keckler
11.24.08
“You who live in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God in whom I trust.’”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 91: 1, 2)
One of the enjoyable, insightful writers of the past couple of decades is Madeleine L’Engle. She offers these words for us to think about as we begin a special week, preparing for a day of Thanksgiving.
It is no coincidence that the root word of whole, health, heal, and holy is hale (as in hale and hearty). If we are healed, we become whole; we are hale and hearty; we are holy.
The marvelous thing is that this holiness is nothing we can earn.
We don’t become holy by acquiring merit badges and Brownie points.
It has nothing to do with virtue or job descriptions or morality.
It is nothing we can do, in this do-it-yourself world.
It is gift, sheer gift, waiting there to be recognized and received.
A prayer: Holy One, fill this week with people who are eagerly journeying toward being hale and hearty people. Amen.
Ben Keckler
11.24.08
Friday, November 21, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, November 21
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. We conclude this week’s devotions with a prayer from the heart of Daniel J. McGill:
May God bless us not with clean air alone,
but the will to keep our air clean.
May God bless us not with a vision of a healthy planet alone,
but the will to do all in our power to restore and maintain our planet’s health.
May God bless us not with a change of heart in the great world leaders alone to save our planet,
but with a change in our own heart to use our own power to save the planet.
May the blessing of God not bring to us saints alone,
but make of us saints greater than any we imagine.
Ben Keckler
11.21.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. We conclude this week’s devotions with a prayer from the heart of Daniel J. McGill:
May God bless us not with clean air alone,
but the will to keep our air clean.
May God bless us not with a vision of a healthy planet alone,
but the will to do all in our power to restore and maintain our planet’s health.
May God bless us not with a change of heart in the great world leaders alone to save our planet,
but with a change in our own heart to use our own power to save the planet.
May the blessing of God not bring to us saints alone,
but make of us saints greater than any we imagine.
Ben Keckler
11.21.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, November 20
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of British poet, Denise Levertov:
As swimmers dare
To lie face to the sky
And water bears them,
As hawks rest upon air
And air sustains them,
So would I learn to attain
Freefall, and float
Into Creator Spirit’s deep embrace,
Knowing no effort earns
That all-surrounding grace.
Ben Keckler
11.20.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of British poet, Denise Levertov:
As swimmers dare
To lie face to the sky
And water bears them,
As hawks rest upon air
And air sustains them,
So would I learn to attain
Freefall, and float
Into Creator Spirit’s deep embrace,
Knowing no effort earns
That all-surrounding grace.
Ben Keckler
11.20.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, November 19
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Arlene E. Swanson:
God,
You who created our bodies and our minds,
I come to you now, trusting your healing presence.
It is you who fashioned our organs, bones, tissues and cells
To work together in harmony for you’re eternal purpose.
There is no disorder in you and your pattern for us is perfect.
I confess that I/ we have misused the earth and this misuse impacts out bodies.
I confess that I/we misuse our emotions, minds and spirits
And this misuse brings pain and disruption to our lives.
Forgive me/us now for our wrongful use of your gifts.
Restore us by Your love to full harmony with Your perfect plan.
I/We know dis-ease is not your will for us.
Your love is unconditional. Yet pain is our teacher.
Open me/us to listen that we may again align ourselves with you.
Where we are unable to restore the earth to its perfection,
When we are unable to root out our mistakes of body and mind,
Nevertheless, be kind to us. Count our fumbling efforts as sufficient.
Restore us now to full health, according to your desire for us.
Bring harmony to our lives, to body mind and spirit.
We thank you now, trusting your love to bring our healing.
Ben Keckler
11.19.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Arlene E. Swanson:
God,
You who created our bodies and our minds,
I come to you now, trusting your healing presence.
It is you who fashioned our organs, bones, tissues and cells
To work together in harmony for you’re eternal purpose.
There is no disorder in you and your pattern for us is perfect.
I confess that I/ we have misused the earth and this misuse impacts out bodies.
I confess that I/we misuse our emotions, minds and spirits
And this misuse brings pain and disruption to our lives.
Forgive me/us now for our wrongful use of your gifts.
Restore us by Your love to full harmony with Your perfect plan.
I/We know dis-ease is not your will for us.
Your love is unconditional. Yet pain is our teacher.
Open me/us to listen that we may again align ourselves with you.
Where we are unable to restore the earth to its perfection,
When we are unable to root out our mistakes of body and mind,
Nevertheless, be kind to us. Count our fumbling efforts as sufficient.
Restore us now to full health, according to your desire for us.
Bring harmony to our lives, to body mind and spirit.
We thank you now, trusting your love to bring our healing.
Ben Keckler
11.19.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, November 18
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Gail Brook Burket:
I do not ask to walk smooth paths or bear an easy load.
I pray for strength and fortitude to climb the rock-strewn road.
Give me such courage and I can scale the headiest peaks alone,
And transform every stumbling block into a stepping stone.
Ben Keckler
11.18.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Gail Brook Burket:
I do not ask to walk smooth paths or bear an easy load.
I pray for strength and fortitude to climb the rock-strewn road.
Give me such courage and I can scale the headiest peaks alone,
And transform every stumbling block into a stepping stone.
Ben Keckler
11.18.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, November 17
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the Sioux Native Americans:
I come before you as one of your many children.
See, I am small and weak; I need your strength and wisdom.
Grant me to walk in beauty and that my eyes may ever behold the crimson sunset.
May my hands treat with respect the things which you have created, may my ears hear your voice.
Make me wise, that I may understand the things, which you have taught my people,
which you have hidden in every leaf and every rock.
I long for strength, not in order that I may overreach my brother
but to fight my greatest enemy—
myself.
Make me ever ready to come to you with pure hands and candid eyes,
So that my spirit, when life disappears like the setting sun,
May stand unashamed before you.
Ben Keckler
11.17.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the Sioux Native Americans:
I come before you as one of your many children.
See, I am small and weak; I need your strength and wisdom.
Grant me to walk in beauty and that my eyes may ever behold the crimson sunset.
May my hands treat with respect the things which you have created, may my ears hear your voice.
Make me wise, that I may understand the things, which you have taught my people,
which you have hidden in every leaf and every rock.
I long for strength, not in order that I may overreach my brother
but to fight my greatest enemy—
myself.
Make me ever ready to come to you with pure hands and candid eyes,
So that my spirit, when life disappears like the setting sun,
May stand unashamed before you.
Ben Keckler
11.17.08
Note: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, November 14
Responses from Our Souls
“The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
People of faith who claim to follow the teachings of the world’s major religions embrace this as a true and trustworthy statement. This brief sentence speaks volumes about the God who has created this vast universe. This brief sentence challenges us to remember the big picture, “God is with us” in this wonderful world. This brief sentence suggests that we can find safety (refuge) in, with, and through this omnipresent God.
Conflict is rampant. From the internal conflict we experience in our own being to the conflicts of the international political arena, it begins to feel like there is no shelter. However, the Psalm writer concludes with this resounding statement of faith, claiming that there is a place to find safety, there is a place for refuge.
Many of us will conclude our week of hard work today; some will be working all weekend. As we move through the weekend, whether at home or at work, please remember that God is with you and take refuge in that reality. Have a good day.
A prayer: May I see you more clearly and trust you more dearly day by day.
Ben Keckler
11.14.08
“The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
People of faith who claim to follow the teachings of the world’s major religions embrace this as a true and trustworthy statement. This brief sentence speaks volumes about the God who has created this vast universe. This brief sentence challenges us to remember the big picture, “God is with us” in this wonderful world. This brief sentence suggests that we can find safety (refuge) in, with, and through this omnipresent God.
Conflict is rampant. From the internal conflict we experience in our own being to the conflicts of the international political arena, it begins to feel like there is no shelter. However, the Psalm writer concludes with this resounding statement of faith, claiming that there is a place to find safety, there is a place for refuge.
Many of us will conclude our week of hard work today; some will be working all weekend. As we move through the weekend, whether at home or at work, please remember that God is with you and take refuge in that reality. Have a good day.
A prayer: May I see you more clearly and trust you more dearly day by day.
Ben Keckler
11.14.08
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, November 13
Responses from Our Souls
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
--Psalm 46:10
“Be still” we are told. How can we be still?
• There are leaves to rake and there is very little daylight left when we get home.
• There are only 41 more days until Christmas.
• Fall sports are winding down and winter sports are bouncing into our schedules.
• There are extra programs during the holidays and programs mean rehearsals!
• And then there are all the unexpected things beyond this list.
“Be still” we are told. To claim some centering time each day, particularly when we realize that we aren’t being still, is a healthy discipline. In Islamic religious practices, prayer times are scheduled throughout the day for people to be still. Changing the rhythms of our day could be helpful. It is definitely something to contemplate. In Making All Things New, Henri Nouwen writes, “We often use the outer distractions to shield ourselves from the interior noises. The confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure.”
“Be still” we are told. May your day (and your coming days) have enough time in them for you to practice stillness!
Ben Keckler
11.13.08
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
--Psalm 46:10
“Be still” we are told. How can we be still?
• There are leaves to rake and there is very little daylight left when we get home.
• There are only 41 more days until Christmas.
• Fall sports are winding down and winter sports are bouncing into our schedules.
• There are extra programs during the holidays and programs mean rehearsals!
• And then there are all the unexpected things beyond this list.
“Be still” we are told. To claim some centering time each day, particularly when we realize that we aren’t being still, is a healthy discipline. In Islamic religious practices, prayer times are scheduled throughout the day for people to be still. Changing the rhythms of our day could be helpful. It is definitely something to contemplate. In Making All Things New, Henri Nouwen writes, “We often use the outer distractions to shield ourselves from the interior noises. The confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure.”
“Be still” we are told. May your day (and your coming days) have enough time in them for you to practice stillness!
Ben Keckler
11.13.08
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, November 12
Responses from Our Souls
“The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
How true it is! People of God from all the major religions believe that God, the Lord of hosts, is with them. How should we practice our faith these days? A response from the soul seems most appropriate.
• Soul language is not rhetoric.
• Soul language never makes the front pages of the newspapers.
• Soul language is simple stillness before God.
• Soul language is about transformation of our hearts.
• Soul language is all about taking refuge and allowing the spirit of God to work.
• Soul language is taking time to lament the selfishness, greed and
power that is part of the political process.
• Soul language is taking time to be thankful for a Creator who is still very much in love with the world.
Many things around us can seem chaotic today. Rather than listening to the chaos, let’s take the time to practice quietness in our souls today. Remember, “The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
Ben Keckler
11.12.08
“The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
How true it is! People of God from all the major religions believe that God, the Lord of hosts, is with them. How should we practice our faith these days? A response from the soul seems most appropriate.
• Soul language is not rhetoric.
• Soul language never makes the front pages of the newspapers.
• Soul language is simple stillness before God.
• Soul language is about transformation of our hearts.
• Soul language is all about taking refuge and allowing the spirit of God to work.
• Soul language is taking time to lament the selfishness, greed and
power that is part of the political process.
• Soul language is taking time to be thankful for a Creator who is still very much in love with the world.
Many things around us can seem chaotic today. Rather than listening to the chaos, let’s take the time to practice quietness in our souls today. Remember, “The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
Ben Keckler
11.12.08
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, November 11
Come, Sit Beside Me
The rhythm of life is always one of change. Living each moment without fear is healthy and difficult. Often we rush through the change, filled with fear because our journey isn’t what we were anticipating. Listen to this excerpt from Nicholas Wolterstorff in his Lament for a Son:
“…. please: don’t say it’s not really so bad. Because it is.
Death is awful, demonic.
If you think your task as comforter is to tell me that really, all things considered,
It’s not so bad, you do not sit with me in my grief but place yourself off in the distance from me.
Over there, you are of no help.
What I need to hear from you is that you recognize how painful it is.
I need to hear from you that you are with me in my desperation.
To comfort me, you have to come close. Come sit beside me on my mourning bench.”
Today is a day to experience change – and it may be change we do not want to experience. The change may be in our life or in the lives of others. Today is a good day to sit beside one another – even on mourning benches.
Ben Keckler
11.11.08
The rhythm of life is always one of change. Living each moment without fear is healthy and difficult. Often we rush through the change, filled with fear because our journey isn’t what we were anticipating. Listen to this excerpt from Nicholas Wolterstorff in his Lament for a Son:
“…. please: don’t say it’s not really so bad. Because it is.
Death is awful, demonic.
If you think your task as comforter is to tell me that really, all things considered,
It’s not so bad, you do not sit with me in my grief but place yourself off in the distance from me.
Over there, you are of no help.
What I need to hear from you is that you recognize how painful it is.
I need to hear from you that you are with me in my desperation.
To comfort me, you have to come close. Come sit beside me on my mourning bench.”
Today is a day to experience change – and it may be change we do not want to experience. The change may be in our life or in the lives of others. Today is a good day to sit beside one another – even on mourning benches.
Ben Keckler
11.11.08
Monday, November 10, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, November 10
Trusting in God and Others
“Restore us again, O God of our salvation,
and put away your indignation toward us.
Will you be angry with us forever?
Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
Will you not revive us again,
so that your people may rejoice in you?
Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”
--An old hymn from the Psalms
Sometimes a lot of stuff comes our way and we feel that the steadfast love of God is missing. Trusting in God’s steadfast love is not necessarily easy.
Have you ever been in a group that is working on trust exercises? One activity that facilitators sometimes use is called “Trust Fall”. Here is how it works: One person stands facing away from the rest of the group. The assignment is to fall backwards into the arms of another person or persons in the group. Many people have great difficulty with this exercise. In Mitch Albom’s book, Tuesdays with Morrie, he tells of a time when Morrie asked his class to attempt this exercise. Mitch still remembers when one person was able to trust and fall backwards. The person was caught and it worked fine. Morrie, Mitch’s professor, observed:
“You see, you closed your eyes. That was the difference. Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too—even when you’re in the dark. Even when you are falling.” (Page 61)
Ben Keckler
11.10.08
“Restore us again, O God of our salvation,
and put away your indignation toward us.
Will you be angry with us forever?
Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
Will you not revive us again,
so that your people may rejoice in you?
Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”
--An old hymn from the Psalms
Sometimes a lot of stuff comes our way and we feel that the steadfast love of God is missing. Trusting in God’s steadfast love is not necessarily easy.
Have you ever been in a group that is working on trust exercises? One activity that facilitators sometimes use is called “Trust Fall”. Here is how it works: One person stands facing away from the rest of the group. The assignment is to fall backwards into the arms of another person or persons in the group. Many people have great difficulty with this exercise. In Mitch Albom’s book, Tuesdays with Morrie, he tells of a time when Morrie asked his class to attempt this exercise. Mitch still remembers when one person was able to trust and fall backwards. The person was caught and it worked fine. Morrie, Mitch’s professor, observed:
“You see, you closed your eyes. That was the difference. Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too—even when you’re in the dark. Even when you are falling.” (Page 61)
Ben Keckler
11.10.08
Friday, November 7, 2008
Daily Devotions - Friday, November 7
Life Unfolding
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
Today is the last day we will spend with quotes from Leo Buscaglia's book. During the last five weeks we have taken time to read insights gained during his travels in Asia. We have taken time to compare his insights with insights I gained from a recent trip to Rwanda. Thank you for letting me share my experiences with you.
Are you enjoying your voyage? As I write this final devotion I have a mental picture of the day we spent with the Batwa tribe in rural Rwanda. The Batwa are few in number these days, but they continue to gather their food from the forests, live in community and make crude clay pots that they sell to those who stop in their community. No store front, no commercialism, just simplicity. Only a few know their national language and none of them know English.
They have no knowledge of the values I've grown to embrace, but they seemed to understand far better than many people I encounter in my own land that sharing life with a stranger is the best way to let life unfold. Just thought I'd try to paint a picture of the Batwa people so you could enjoy your weekend as it unfolds.
Ben Keckler
11.07.08
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
Today is the last day we will spend with quotes from Leo Buscaglia's book. During the last five weeks we have taken time to read insights gained during his travels in Asia. We have taken time to compare his insights with insights I gained from a recent trip to Rwanda. Thank you for letting me share my experiences with you.
Are you enjoying your voyage? As I write this final devotion I have a mental picture of the day we spent with the Batwa tribe in rural Rwanda. The Batwa are few in number these days, but they continue to gather their food from the forests, live in community and make crude clay pots that they sell to those who stop in their community. No store front, no commercialism, just simplicity. Only a few know their national language and none of them know English.
They have no knowledge of the values I've grown to embrace, but they seemed to understand far better than many people I encounter in my own land that sharing life with a stranger is the best way to let life unfold. Just thought I'd try to paint a picture of the Batwa people so you could enjoy your weekend as it unfolds.
Ben Keckler
11.07.08
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Daily Devotions - Thursday, November 6
Living in this Moment
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
As we live our lives as citizens in a global community, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. We probably will have more than just this moment, but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. I believe that when we truly live in this moment, we will discover our personal health improving and we will see the world through the lens of compassion rather than competition.
Ben Keckler
11.06.08
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
As we live our lives as citizens in a global community, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. We probably will have more than just this moment, but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. I believe that when we truly live in this moment, we will discover our personal health improving and we will see the world through the lens of compassion rather than competition.
Ben Keckler
11.06.08
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Daily Devotions - Wednesday, November 5
Living Together
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
I was astounded when traveling in Rwanda to learn that, when perpetrators of the genocide are released from prison, they move into villages across the country where they live next door to a family who were victims in the genocide. The picture was quite different than the way we treat those who are known perpetrators. I had trouble understanding how this method of genocidal recovery could possibly work.
Last week my wife shared a story from Cambodia, another country that experienced genocide years ago. The story mentioned how perpetrators and victims were “forced” to live side by side. Years later, they continue to live together in community.
Survivors are living in the now. They are learning to see one another in a healthier way. They are finding their way as life unfolds. Pretty interesting.
Ben Keckler
11.05.08
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
I was astounded when traveling in Rwanda to learn that, when perpetrators of the genocide are released from prison, they move into villages across the country where they live next door to a family who were victims in the genocide. The picture was quite different than the way we treat those who are known perpetrators. I had trouble understanding how this method of genocidal recovery could possibly work.
Last week my wife shared a story from Cambodia, another country that experienced genocide years ago. The story mentioned how perpetrators and victims were “forced” to live side by side. Years later, they continue to live together in community.
Survivors are living in the now. They are learning to see one another in a healthier way. They are finding their way as life unfolds. Pretty interesting.
Ben Keckler
11.05.08
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Daily Devotions - Tuesday, November 4
Allowing Life to Unfold
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
Are you letting your life unfold? We tend to put a great deal of emphasis on planning. Today each of us is voicing our opinions about who we would like to have lead us politically – locally, statewide and nationally. We will not vote identically, but at the end of the day we will have a number of newly elected officials.
Regardless of who is elected, our lives will continue unfolding. The voyage will continue and we will move ahead through some very difficult waters. What I can tell you is that in these days of diminishing stockpiles of anticipated future gains, each of us will be taken care of.
The most important task of today is to vote. The most important task tomorrow is to respect the leaders who are chosen and continue to give the day your very best. If each of us does that, all will be well!
--Ben Keckler
11.04.08
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
Are you letting your life unfold? We tend to put a great deal of emphasis on planning. Today each of us is voicing our opinions about who we would like to have lead us politically – locally, statewide and nationally. We will not vote identically, but at the end of the day we will have a number of newly elected officials.
Regardless of who is elected, our lives will continue unfolding. The voyage will continue and we will move ahead through some very difficult waters. What I can tell you is that in these days of diminishing stockpiles of anticipated future gains, each of us will be taken care of.
The most important task of today is to vote. The most important task tomorrow is to respect the leaders who are chosen and continue to give the day your very best. If each of us does that, all will be well!
--Ben Keckler
11.04.08
Monday, November 3, 2008
Daily Devotions - Monday, November 3
Live in the Moment
“Don’t worry about tomorrow,
tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
--A teaching from Jesus as remembered by Matthew (6: 34)
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating their traditions into his understanding about the mystery of life. In Asia the bull symbolically represents life. So, another way to title the book could be The Way of Life.
When we live with folks unaccustomed to Western culture, we discover people of faith whose values are very different. Leo Buscaglia learned this on his trip to Asia. The above quote is part of his summary statements. In many ways he echoes the words from the Sermon on the Mount (see the Scripture quote). It would be good to meditate on these quotes this week.
As we live our lives, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. Obviously, we probably will have more than just this moment, but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. If we live in this moment, we will truly be healthier.
Ben Keckler
11.03.08
“Don’t worry about tomorrow,
tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
--A teaching from Jesus as remembered by Matthew (6: 34)
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY will only have reality
As it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating their traditions into his understanding about the mystery of life. In Asia the bull symbolically represents life. So, another way to title the book could be The Way of Life.
When we live with folks unaccustomed to Western culture, we discover people of faith whose values are very different. Leo Buscaglia learned this on his trip to Asia. The above quote is part of his summary statements. In many ways he echoes the words from the Sermon on the Mount (see the Scripture quote). It would be good to meditate on these quotes this week.
As we live our lives, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. Obviously, we probably will have more than just this moment, but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. If we live in this moment, we will truly be healthier.
Ben Keckler
11.03.08
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