Psalm 23 Reflections
Have you ever been in a valley of deep darkness? If we were to translate the Hebrew words literally, that would be a preferred translation for the “valley of the shadow of death.” Think about valleys of deep darkness that we all experience. Dare we name them? Loneliness, sadness, being overwhelmed, feeling threatened — these are some of those valleys we hesitate to name.
When we are traveling though a valley of deep darkness, we can be just like an easily frightened lamb. We feel very vulnerable. It is comforting to know when we are traveling through these difficult places that our Creator is present with rod and staff to guide us. Sometimes the rod is needed to beat back the dangers around us. Sometimes the staff is necessary because the crook can pull us back onto a better path. Valleys of deep darkness don’t need to be lonely! They can be places where the silence teaches us to trust the shepherd.
Have a good day today and an even better weekend. If you aren’t in a valley right now, there may be those around you who are. You may be the rod or staff to help guide them through their darkness. May you be blessed with a touch of the divine?
A Prayer attributed to Marcarius the Great: “Lord, help! Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.29.09
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 28
More Reflections on Psalm 23
I hope you were able to experience the soothing words of the 23rd Psalm over the holiday weekend. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.”
As spring unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket and lie down surrounded by green grass and observe the budding of new life around. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing, making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored, don’t we?
The writer of this psalm seems to say, “God leads me to the places he does and I know my shepherd is providing for my renewal. Yes, God is enabling me to recapture my energy and move ahead.” By listening closely, you will find your gentle shepherd is framing ways for you to discover wonderful treasures within your soul.
A Prayer attributed to John Neale: “Lord, one day I will live with you where you are. Live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.28.09
I hope you were able to experience the soothing words of the 23rd Psalm over the holiday weekend. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.”
As spring unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket and lie down surrounded by green grass and observe the budding of new life around. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing, making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored, don’t we?
The writer of this psalm seems to say, “God leads me to the places he does and I know my shepherd is providing for my renewal. Yes, God is enabling me to recapture my energy and move ahead.” By listening closely, you will find your gentle shepherd is framing ways for you to discover wonderful treasures within your soul.
A Prayer attributed to John Neale: “Lord, one day I will live with you where you are. Live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.28.09
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 27
Reflections on the 23rd Psalm
Those who work with sheep tell us that sheep are easily frightened. They tell us that sheep can get lost easily, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Sheep need a lot of guidance, they need to be watched and protected and encouraged. No one knows this better than a sheepherder. The 23rd Psalm starts with the writer confessing the needs of his soul. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
I encourage you to stay in touch with the caregiver who holds you in the palm of his hand. May your wants and needs be supplied. May you be blessed with the ability to care for others just as your caregiver provides for you.
--Ben Keckler
05.27.09
Those who work with sheep tell us that sheep are easily frightened. They tell us that sheep can get lost easily, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Sheep need a lot of guidance, they need to be watched and protected and encouraged. No one knows this better than a sheepherder. The 23rd Psalm starts with the writer confessing the needs of his soul. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
I encourage you to stay in touch with the caregiver who holds you in the palm of his hand. May your wants and needs be supplied. May you be blessed with the ability to care for others just as your caregiver provides for you.
--Ben Keckler
05.27.09
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 26
The Luggage We Carry
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil; for you are with me;
Your rod and your staff—
They comfort me.”
--Psalm 23: 4
Having met a significant number of people who appear to have a platter that is full to over-flowing, the following reminder from Max Lucado seems to be in order:
Release Your Burdens
This morning, somewhere between your first step on the floor
And your last step out the door, you grabbed some luggage.
The bags you grabbed are not made of leather;
They’re made of burdens.
A suitcase of guilt.
A sack of discontent.
A duffel bag of weariness.
Set them down.
Prayer: God of this moment, empower me to set down my baggage and trust that you are taking care of things, even when the valley is dark and I fear that my baggage could get lost. By the way God, if they do get lost help me to realize that it can be a blessing. In fact, without that stuff weighing me down, I may get out of this dark valley. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.26.09
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil; for you are with me;
Your rod and your staff—
They comfort me.”
--Psalm 23: 4
Having met a significant number of people who appear to have a platter that is full to over-flowing, the following reminder from Max Lucado seems to be in order:
Release Your Burdens
This morning, somewhere between your first step on the floor
And your last step out the door, you grabbed some luggage.
The bags you grabbed are not made of leather;
They’re made of burdens.
A suitcase of guilt.
A sack of discontent.
A duffel bag of weariness.
Set them down.
Prayer: God of this moment, empower me to set down my baggage and trust that you are taking care of things, even when the valley is dark and I fear that my baggage could get lost. By the way God, if they do get lost help me to realize that it can be a blessing. In fact, without that stuff weighing me down, I may get out of this dark valley. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.26.09
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 22
Remembering Others This Weekend
“The Lord is faithful to all his promises
and loving toward all he has made.”
--A Song from the Scriptures
As we move toward race weekend in the greater Indy area, it is appropriate to remember the weekend is a time to remember and honor those who have done and do so much to keep us free. Downtown Indianapolis is known for its many great tributes to veterans. It is also good to remember the saints who surround us and sustain us — the great cloud of witnesses as they are called in Scripture. St. Francis of Assisi first shared today’s prayer centuries ago. Here is an excerpt from Canticle of the Sun.
Most High, all-powerful and good Father,
To you belong all praises, all glory, honor and blessing!
To you alone do they belong, for no mere man is worthy to mention your name.
Praised are you, my Lord,
Through all your creation – especially Brother Sun.
He is the day and through him you give us light.
Praised are you, my Lord,
Through Sister Moon, and all the stars.
There in the heavens, you formed them, clear-shining, precious and lovely!
May the sun, the moon and all the activities of the holiday weekend bring you reminders of God’s continued care.
--Ben Keckler
05.22.09
“The Lord is faithful to all his promises
and loving toward all he has made.”
--A Song from the Scriptures
As we move toward race weekend in the greater Indy area, it is appropriate to remember the weekend is a time to remember and honor those who have done and do so much to keep us free. Downtown Indianapolis is known for its many great tributes to veterans. It is also good to remember the saints who surround us and sustain us — the great cloud of witnesses as they are called in Scripture. St. Francis of Assisi first shared today’s prayer centuries ago. Here is an excerpt from Canticle of the Sun.
Most High, all-powerful and good Father,
To you belong all praises, all glory, honor and blessing!
To you alone do they belong, for no mere man is worthy to mention your name.
Praised are you, my Lord,
Through all your creation – especially Brother Sun.
He is the day and through him you give us light.
Praised are you, my Lord,
Through Sister Moon, and all the stars.
There in the heavens, you formed them, clear-shining, precious and lovely!
May the sun, the moon and all the activities of the holiday weekend bring you reminders of God’s continued care.
--Ben Keckler
05.22.09
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 21
In Search of …
“Before I was humbled I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
It was good for me that I was humbled,
so that I might learn your statutes.”
-- A Hebrew hymn, Psalm 119: 67, 71
Some years ago Frederick Buechner decided to write a book of meditations based on his experiences. He titled the book Listening to Your Life. Prize winning poet Maya Angelou says of the book, “This book is meant to possess, and at the same time liberate, the heart. I’m happy to report it succeeds.”
For May 30, Buechner’s meditation is entitled, “In Search.” He describes the process of the inner journey (the spiritual journey, the journey to awareness, etc.). These words are accurate for me and they may be helpful for you as you continue your trek of searching and discovery.
“…even when, to one degree or another, we find the things we are searching for, we find also that there is still something crucial missing which we have not found, we search for that unfound thing too, even though we do not know its name or where it is to be found,or even if it is to be found at all.”
Enjoy your journey — today, this weekend, and beyond. As 94-year-old Hazel Schmuck (her name REALLY), a dementia-plagued resident in a retirement community often told me years ago at the conclusion of our visits, “Have a nice forever!”
Prayer: God, guide me in my search. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.21.09
“Before I was humbled I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
It was good for me that I was humbled,
so that I might learn your statutes.”
-- A Hebrew hymn, Psalm 119: 67, 71
Some years ago Frederick Buechner decided to write a book of meditations based on his experiences. He titled the book Listening to Your Life. Prize winning poet Maya Angelou says of the book, “This book is meant to possess, and at the same time liberate, the heart. I’m happy to report it succeeds.”
For May 30, Buechner’s meditation is entitled, “In Search.” He describes the process of the inner journey (the spiritual journey, the journey to awareness, etc.). These words are accurate for me and they may be helpful for you as you continue your trek of searching and discovery.
“…even when, to one degree or another, we find the things we are searching for, we find also that there is still something crucial missing which we have not found, we search for that unfound thing too, even though we do not know its name or where it is to be found,or even if it is to be found at all.”
Enjoy your journey — today, this weekend, and beyond. As 94-year-old Hazel Schmuck (her name REALLY), a dementia-plagued resident in a retirement community often told me years ago at the conclusion of our visits, “Have a nice forever!”
Prayer: God, guide me in my search. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.21.09
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 20
In the Middles
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me,
bless God’s holy name.
It is God who satisfies you with good as long as you live
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
-- A Hebrew hymn, Psalm 103: 1, 5
Some days youthfulness is difficult to feel, to recognize, and to embrace. Daily we encounter people whose youthfulness has been zapped from them -- some of them seem far too young to have that happen to them.
When “the middle years” (what is that range these days?) visit us, we feel we have gained a perspective on life. We struggle with phrases like “God satisfies you with good as long as you live.” The struggle is appropriate. We sometimes have to work to access those feelings of youthfulness. We can find it difficult to fully bless the Lord as we might have earlier in our lives. Here is an example of the “middle years” struggle expressed in prayer form by Rabbi Rami Shapiro:
“Is it morning, really morning, or is it just another day?
A new beginning or just a continuing yesterday?
How I wish for morning: a light soft and bleaching a night’s pain.
A new beginning, a new day.
But I fear morning is no longer with me.
Beginnings rarely seek me out—I am too much with middles.”
Seems to be an honest lament. If you are in the “middles,” remember you are not alone. May you find enough youthfulness today to empower you.
--Ben Keckler
05.20.09
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me,
bless God’s holy name.
It is God who satisfies you with good as long as you live
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
-- A Hebrew hymn, Psalm 103: 1, 5
Some days youthfulness is difficult to feel, to recognize, and to embrace. Daily we encounter people whose youthfulness has been zapped from them -- some of them seem far too young to have that happen to them.
When “the middle years” (what is that range these days?) visit us, we feel we have gained a perspective on life. We struggle with phrases like “God satisfies you with good as long as you live.” The struggle is appropriate. We sometimes have to work to access those feelings of youthfulness. We can find it difficult to fully bless the Lord as we might have earlier in our lives. Here is an example of the “middle years” struggle expressed in prayer form by Rabbi Rami Shapiro:
“Is it morning, really morning, or is it just another day?
A new beginning or just a continuing yesterday?
How I wish for morning: a light soft and bleaching a night’s pain.
A new beginning, a new day.
But I fear morning is no longer with me.
Beginnings rarely seek me out—I am too much with middles.”
Seems to be an honest lament. If you are in the “middles,” remember you are not alone. May you find enough youthfulness today to empower you.
--Ben Keckler
05.20.09
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 19
Very Good Creation
“God created human beings and assigned them
to manage the earth, plants, animals, and birds.
And God saw that everything he had made was very good.”
-- From the Creation story in Genesis 1
The month of May is flying by. The little seeds planted some weeks ago are now healthy plants and ready for planting outdoors. All the perennials are up and looking quite healthy. The tomato plants are thriving and little blossoms are hinting of better days ahead. The birds continue to thoroughly enjoy the generous amounts of birdseed I put out for them. The cat sits in the open windows sniffing fresh air as it comes into the house. Very good, yes, very good!
Jocele Meyer writes: “I have a dream that one-day we, too, will see all that God has created as good. We will live in such ways that word and deed are one. We will work toward that day as we farm in more sustainable ways, plant trees that purify the air, cultivate our urban gardens, and make a habit of walking short distances so fewer parking lots represent the last harvest on the land. I have a dream that humankind will more fully understand what it means to live in covenant with God.” (Earthkeepers, p. 39)
Enjoy creation’s beauty and have a blessed day.
--Ben Keckler
05.19.09
“God created human beings and assigned them
to manage the earth, plants, animals, and birds.
And God saw that everything he had made was very good.”
-- From the Creation story in Genesis 1
The month of May is flying by. The little seeds planted some weeks ago are now healthy plants and ready for planting outdoors. All the perennials are up and looking quite healthy. The tomato plants are thriving and little blossoms are hinting of better days ahead. The birds continue to thoroughly enjoy the generous amounts of birdseed I put out for them. The cat sits in the open windows sniffing fresh air as it comes into the house. Very good, yes, very good!
Jocele Meyer writes: “I have a dream that one-day we, too, will see all that God has created as good. We will live in such ways that word and deed are one. We will work toward that day as we farm in more sustainable ways, plant trees that purify the air, cultivate our urban gardens, and make a habit of walking short distances so fewer parking lots represent the last harvest on the land. I have a dream that humankind will more fully understand what it means to live in covenant with God.” (Earthkeepers, p. 39)
Enjoy creation’s beauty and have a blessed day.
--Ben Keckler
05.19.09
Monday, May 18, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 18
Tuesdays on Monday
“In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil… Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, ‘Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts. This was Job’s regular custom.”
--From the Prologue to the book of Job
Many of us are familiar with the story of Job. It’s a story of the wealthiest person of the East losing everything. It’s a faith story and worthy of reading.
I really like the book Tuesdays with Morrie. From time to time I share stories from this book which is the story of a college professor, Morrie Schwartz, and the last weeks of his life. Mitch Albom was one of the professor’s students who, upon hearing that his beloved teacher was dying, decided he wanted to spend time with his professor and learn some additional lessons about life. This little snippet shows that Morrie didn’t lose his spark and enthusiasm even as he journeyed toward his eternal rest.
Okay, question, I say to Morrie. His bony fingers hold his glasses across his chest, which rises and falls with each labored breath.
“What is the question?” he says.
Remember the Book of Job?
“From the Bible?”
Right, Job is a good man, but God makes him suffer. To test his faith.
“I remember.”
Takes away everything he has, his house, his money, his family…
“His health.”
Makes him sick.
“To test his faith.”
Right, I say. To test his faith. So, I’m wondering…
“What are you wondering?”
What you think about that?
Morrie coughs violently. His hands quiver as he drops them by his side.
“I think,” he says, smiling, “God overdid it.” (Pages 150-151)
May you find enough spark and enthusiasm for today and this week. Thanks Morrie!
--Ben Keckler
05.18.09
“In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil… Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, ‘Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts. This was Job’s regular custom.”
--From the Prologue to the book of Job
Many of us are familiar with the story of Job. It’s a story of the wealthiest person of the East losing everything. It’s a faith story and worthy of reading.
I really like the book Tuesdays with Morrie. From time to time I share stories from this book which is the story of a college professor, Morrie Schwartz, and the last weeks of his life. Mitch Albom was one of the professor’s students who, upon hearing that his beloved teacher was dying, decided he wanted to spend time with his professor and learn some additional lessons about life. This little snippet shows that Morrie didn’t lose his spark and enthusiasm even as he journeyed toward his eternal rest.
Okay, question, I say to Morrie. His bony fingers hold his glasses across his chest, which rises and falls with each labored breath.
“What is the question?” he says.
Remember the Book of Job?
“From the Bible?”
Right, Job is a good man, but God makes him suffer. To test his faith.
“I remember.”
Takes away everything he has, his house, his money, his family…
“His health.”
Makes him sick.
“To test his faith.”
Right, I say. To test his faith. So, I’m wondering…
“What are you wondering?”
What you think about that?
Morrie coughs violently. His hands quiver as he drops them by his side.
“I think,” he says, smiling, “God overdid it.” (Pages 150-151)
May you find enough spark and enthusiasm for today and this week. Thanks Morrie!
--Ben Keckler
05.18.09
Friday, May 15, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 15
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, your greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65: 9
Come and meditate. Today’s verse is Stephen Mitchell’s adaptation of Psalm 1, recast in the setting of personal relationship of two souls merging into one.
“Blessed are the woman and the man
Who have grown beyond their greed,
And have put an end to their hatred,
And no longer nourish illusions.
“But they delight in the way things are,
And keep their hearts open, day and night.
They are like trees planted near flowing rivers,
Which bear fruit when they are ready.
Their leaves will not fall or wither.
Everything they do will succeed.”
Have an enjoyable weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.15.09
“You visit the earth and water it, your greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65: 9
Come and meditate. Today’s verse is Stephen Mitchell’s adaptation of Psalm 1, recast in the setting of personal relationship of two souls merging into one.
“Blessed are the woman and the man
Who have grown beyond their greed,
And have put an end to their hatred,
And no longer nourish illusions.
“But they delight in the way things are,
And keep their hearts open, day and night.
They are like trees planted near flowing rivers,
Which bear fruit when they are ready.
Their leaves will not fall or wither.
Everything they do will succeed.”
Have an enjoyable weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.15.09
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 14
A Decent Place to Live
I've done Habitat for Humanity work in various locations. I had the privilege of working to establish a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana, Perry County to be precise. It was demanding work and very fulfilling. Throughout this week we are focusing on “A Decent Place to Live.”
Have you ever picked up a hammer that helps give hope,
That's the Habitat answer for those who are trying to cope.
With the struggle to have a decent place to live,
Why not volunteer your time and with your talents give
A bit of sunshine to those who dream to own their own place.
Explore the Habitat way and discover the experience of holy, healing grace.
--Ben Keckler
05.14.09
I've done Habitat for Humanity work in various locations. I had the privilege of working to establish a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana, Perry County to be precise. It was demanding work and very fulfilling. Throughout this week we are focusing on “A Decent Place to Live.”
Have you ever picked up a hammer that helps give hope,
That's the Habitat answer for those who are trying to cope.
With the struggle to have a decent place to live,
Why not volunteer your time and with your talents give
A bit of sunshine to those who dream to own their own place.
Explore the Habitat way and discover the experience of holy, healing grace.
--Ben Keckler
05.14.09
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 13
A Decent Place to Live
I've done various Habitat for Humanity work. Establishing a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana was demanding work. It still feels like some of the best work of my pastoral life. Throughout this week we are focusing our devotional life on “A Decent Place to Live.”
Here in this grand American culture there are people who work very hard,
Who have learned how to curb their spending, refusing the lure of a credit card.
They dream of saving enough so that someday they might have
A home of their own that could serve as a bit of healing salve.
For all the challenges they may face in their labors each and every day are out of reach
Unless there are those who will learn the secrets of home building the Habitat way.
Why not take some time and learn about the vision of Habitat, my friend,
And build your Habitat story, an act of mercy that will never, ever end.
--Ben Keckler
05.13.09
I've done various Habitat for Humanity work. Establishing a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana was demanding work. It still feels like some of the best work of my pastoral life. Throughout this week we are focusing our devotional life on “A Decent Place to Live.”
Here in this grand American culture there are people who work very hard,
Who have learned how to curb their spending, refusing the lure of a credit card.
They dream of saving enough so that someday they might have
A home of their own that could serve as a bit of healing salve.
For all the challenges they may face in their labors each and every day are out of reach
Unless there are those who will learn the secrets of home building the Habitat way.
Why not take some time and learn about the vision of Habitat, my friend,
And build your Habitat story, an act of mercy that will never, ever end.
--Ben Keckler
05.13.09
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A Decent Place to Live
Many communities are privileged to have a local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. I've done various Habitat for Humanity work since 1990. About 15 years ago I began the work of establishing a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana, Perry County to be precise. The work was demanding; the six years I spent as founder and then the first president of that organization still feel like some of the best years of my pastoral life. I want to focus some of our devotional life on “A Decent Place to Live” because our present economic realities may start pushing the world to have an increasingly more precise picture of what “a decent place” might look like.
Seems quite clear to me that everyone deserves a simple, decent place to call their own,
Helps the self-esteem, and let's feelings dance while new responsibilities are grown.
If we band together and commit our time and talents to build a house that can become a home,
Then everyone senses deepened awareness of how God's eternal presence can be known.
--Ben Keckler
05.12.09
Many communities are privileged to have a local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. I've done various Habitat for Humanity work since 1990. About 15 years ago I began the work of establishing a Habitat affiliate in southern Indiana, Perry County to be precise. The work was demanding; the six years I spent as founder and then the first president of that organization still feel like some of the best years of my pastoral life. I want to focus some of our devotional life on “A Decent Place to Live” because our present economic realities may start pushing the world to have an increasingly more precise picture of what “a decent place” might look like.
Seems quite clear to me that everyone deserves a simple, decent place to call their own,
Helps the self-esteem, and let's feelings dance while new responsibilities are grown.
If we band together and commit our time and talents to build a house that can become a home,
Then everyone senses deepened awareness of how God's eternal presence can be known.
--Ben Keckler
05.12.09
Monday, May 11, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 11
Rhythms in the Life Journey
Another Mother's Day is now history. I found this prayer (probably composed by a mom!) who wanted to give a summary “prayer” for an already mature teenager about to embark on life’s journey. Come and meditate.
“If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else and you want to use it, get permission.
If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.
If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If it will brighten someone’s day, by all means, say it!”
--Ben Keckler
05.11.09
Another Mother's Day is now history. I found this prayer (probably composed by a mom!) who wanted to give a summary “prayer” for an already mature teenager about to embark on life’s journey. Come and meditate.
“If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else and you want to use it, get permission.
If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.
If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If it will brighten someone’s day, by all means, say it!”
--Ben Keckler
05.11.09
Friday, May 8, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 8
Amazing, Absolutely Amazing Grace
"Authentic spiritual wholeness,
by its very nature,
is open-ended.
It is always in the process of becoming, always incomplete."
--Gerald May, M.D.—Addiction and Grace
Dr. May’s observation paints such a helpful picture for us. On the one hand we long for completeness, for a finished product, for everything to be neatly tied together; on the other hand we need to realize that the journey through life is not a completed map.
Grace and faith are a couple of important gifts that we need to access frequently if we are going to be authentic, spiritually vibrant people. John Newton penned it this way:
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved someone like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.”
As grace guides us to new places of awareness, we become healthier people. As we experience that grace coming time and time again, we may begin to realize the open-ended nature of spirituality. The more that realization happens the more life becomes one fabulous journey of “Amazing Grace” or continual renewal.
Authentic living—that is what we long for. Enjoy your day!!! And enjoy your weekend as you continue to experience the many ways that the Holy One is gracing your journey.
--Ben Keckler
05.08.09
"Authentic spiritual wholeness,
by its very nature,
is open-ended.
It is always in the process of becoming, always incomplete."
--Gerald May, M.D.—Addiction and Grace
Dr. May’s observation paints such a helpful picture for us. On the one hand we long for completeness, for a finished product, for everything to be neatly tied together; on the other hand we need to realize that the journey through life is not a completed map.
Grace and faith are a couple of important gifts that we need to access frequently if we are going to be authentic, spiritually vibrant people. John Newton penned it this way:
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved someone like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.”
As grace guides us to new places of awareness, we become healthier people. As we experience that grace coming time and time again, we may begin to realize the open-ended nature of spirituality. The more that realization happens the more life becomes one fabulous journey of “Amazing Grace” or continual renewal.
Authentic living—that is what we long for. Enjoy your day!!! And enjoy your weekend as you continue to experience the many ways that the Holy One is gracing your journey.
--Ben Keckler
05.08.09
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 7
Natural?
A reading for today: John 11: 35
“If we include our ‘little griefs’
along with our ‘large griefs’
we can say that grief is as natural to every person as breathing.”
--Granger Westburg from Good Grief
A devotional thought on grief? You’ve got to be kidding. No.
Over the last four or five decades grief awareness has grown remarkably. Unfortunately much of the time we still associate the word grief with death. Westburg reminds us that death is a large grief, but that there are many other “little griefs” that come our way.
These days some have had to face “swine flu.” During economic downtimes, people face “job-loss grief.” With some illnesses like Alzheimer’s, families face the loss of a person before the death of a person. Moving or other types of change in family life brings grief to the forefront. A hospital or a county with “growing pains” can be a grief producer. The list, in fact, could be quite lengthy.
Often we sweep this “grief stuff” under the carpet or hide it away in a closet. The brief reading for today shows that grief stuff is OK in public. When we open ourselves to the challenge of “working through” our grief (whether little or large), we affirm our common ground with one another. When we pour out our grief, we open ourselves to the healing power that others have to give.
May each of us have the courage to identify and clarify our own “griefs” and, as we work through them, may they all become “Good Grief.”
--Ben Keckler
05.07.09
A reading for today: John 11: 35
“If we include our ‘little griefs’
along with our ‘large griefs’
we can say that grief is as natural to every person as breathing.”
--Granger Westburg from Good Grief
A devotional thought on grief? You’ve got to be kidding. No.
Over the last four or five decades grief awareness has grown remarkably. Unfortunately much of the time we still associate the word grief with death. Westburg reminds us that death is a large grief, but that there are many other “little griefs” that come our way.
These days some have had to face “swine flu.” During economic downtimes, people face “job-loss grief.” With some illnesses like Alzheimer’s, families face the loss of a person before the death of a person. Moving or other types of change in family life brings grief to the forefront. A hospital or a county with “growing pains” can be a grief producer. The list, in fact, could be quite lengthy.
Often we sweep this “grief stuff” under the carpet or hide it away in a closet. The brief reading for today shows that grief stuff is OK in public. When we open ourselves to the challenge of “working through” our grief (whether little or large), we affirm our common ground with one another. When we pour out our grief, we open ourselves to the healing power that others have to give.
May each of us have the courage to identify and clarify our own “griefs” and, as we work through them, may they all become “Good Grief.”
--Ben Keckler
05.07.09
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 6
The Wonderful World of ... Persons
A thought for today:
“There are two ways of looking at the world,
of entering into relationship with it.
We may see in it nothing but things.
On the other hand, one can lay oneself open to the world of persons.”
--Paul Tournier
Dr. Paul Tournier is one of the pioneers of holistic health care. Around 65 years ago this Swiss physician began writing books, calling health care providers to be concerned about the entire person. The books are classics and need to be referenced in each and every decade. Some of those books are available in the chaplaincy office if you want to read them (The Meaning of Persons, The Healing of Persons, and Medicine of the Whole Person).
Our gadget filled, convenience oriented society puts a great deal of pressure on all of us to look at the world and to relate to the world of things. For example, after a day at work it is often easier to go home and turn on the TV than it is to take twenty or thirty minutes relating to those significant persons in our lives. We could create quite a list of the ways the world of things takes precedence over the world of persons.
The “things” of our society are not necessarily bad or evil. Take this devotional. The world of computers has given us a means of generating this and it is available to anyone in the world. Computers can be a real asset! Tournier’s reminder is about our relating to the world. If we relate only through things, we are missing the wonderful world of heart and soul interaction. Relational time can contribute to healthier living.
Take some time today to “open to the world of persons.” It is a tremendous opportunity that may bring the Holy One closer to you than you ever imagined. Take some time and think about how you are relating to the things and persons around you. May your day be filled with blessedness!
Prayer: God of today, bring another soul my way. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.06.09
A thought for today:
“There are two ways of looking at the world,
of entering into relationship with it.
We may see in it nothing but things.
On the other hand, one can lay oneself open to the world of persons.”
--Paul Tournier
Dr. Paul Tournier is one of the pioneers of holistic health care. Around 65 years ago this Swiss physician began writing books, calling health care providers to be concerned about the entire person. The books are classics and need to be referenced in each and every decade. Some of those books are available in the chaplaincy office if you want to read them (The Meaning of Persons, The Healing of Persons, and Medicine of the Whole Person).
Our gadget filled, convenience oriented society puts a great deal of pressure on all of us to look at the world and to relate to the world of things. For example, after a day at work it is often easier to go home and turn on the TV than it is to take twenty or thirty minutes relating to those significant persons in our lives. We could create quite a list of the ways the world of things takes precedence over the world of persons.
The “things” of our society are not necessarily bad or evil. Take this devotional. The world of computers has given us a means of generating this and it is available to anyone in the world. Computers can be a real asset! Tournier’s reminder is about our relating to the world. If we relate only through things, we are missing the wonderful world of heart and soul interaction. Relational time can contribute to healthier living.
Take some time today to “open to the world of persons.” It is a tremendous opportunity that may bring the Holy One closer to you than you ever imagined. Take some time and think about how you are relating to the things and persons around you. May your day be filled with blessedness!
Prayer: God of today, bring another soul my way. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.06.09
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 5
Joyous Journey Toward Poverty
In a fabulous necklace
I had to admire
the anonymous string
by which the whole thing
was strung together.
--Dom. Helder Camara,
Brazilian bishop to the poor
Each and every day more people are born into or arrive at the door of poverty than the number of people who are born into or arrive at self-sustaining affluence. It happens in our land and it happens in every country of the world. Global village realities are often ignored because we look at the fabulous necklace rather than the string.
How we long for a life where everyone is self-supporting, a life where everyone has nice gems on their necklace string! The reality is that fewer and fewer people are self-supporting. Susan Classen (Mennonite missionary to El Salvador) tells this story:
"A group of women in El Salvador called the “Mothers of the
Disappeared, Tortured and Assassinated” meet regularly as a
support group. Affluent security forces during the civil war
killed their husbands and/or children. One of the ladies,
Antonia, says, “My life is like a necklace—the beads would
have gone rolling all over the floor with the suffering I’ve
experienced, if it weren’t for the support group that holds me
together just like the string that holds the beads together.”
Poverty has many different forms. We usually think of it economically. Yet, there are many different losses that cause each of us to arrive at a door of poverty. A support group kept poor Antonia affluent in the midst of her poverty. Support groups are important for every person. In order to have a deep and lasting trust, we must open our hearts to the hearts of others. As we take time to weave strands of trust, we are remembering the importance of the fine string holding the gemstones of our life.
Prayer: God of all creation, show me my poverty. Help me as I strengthen the string that holds the gems you have given me. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.05.09
In a fabulous necklace
I had to admire
the anonymous string
by which the whole thing
was strung together.
--Dom. Helder Camara,
Brazilian bishop to the poor
Each and every day more people are born into or arrive at the door of poverty than the number of people who are born into or arrive at self-sustaining affluence. It happens in our land and it happens in every country of the world. Global village realities are often ignored because we look at the fabulous necklace rather than the string.
How we long for a life where everyone is self-supporting, a life where everyone has nice gems on their necklace string! The reality is that fewer and fewer people are self-supporting. Susan Classen (Mennonite missionary to El Salvador) tells this story:
"A group of women in El Salvador called the “Mothers of the
Disappeared, Tortured and Assassinated” meet regularly as a
support group. Affluent security forces during the civil war
killed their husbands and/or children. One of the ladies,
Antonia, says, “My life is like a necklace—the beads would
have gone rolling all over the floor with the suffering I’ve
experienced, if it weren’t for the support group that holds me
together just like the string that holds the beads together.”
Poverty has many different forms. We usually think of it economically. Yet, there are many different losses that cause each of us to arrive at a door of poverty. A support group kept poor Antonia affluent in the midst of her poverty. Support groups are important for every person. In order to have a deep and lasting trust, we must open our hearts to the hearts of others. As we take time to weave strands of trust, we are remembering the importance of the fine string holding the gemstones of our life.
Prayer: God of all creation, show me my poverty. Help me as I strengthen the string that holds the gems you have given me. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.05.09
Monday, May 4, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 4
Belief or Disbelief?
“We both believe and disbelieve a hundred times an hour
which keeps believing nimble.”
--Emily Dickinson
What would it have been like to know and talk with Emily Dickinson? From time to time one of her great lines appears and it makes so much sense. She was so insightful. The quote above is one of those insightful quotes.
The struggle to trust God in all things is so very difficult. Trusting calls for a real leap of faith. Life really is acting in faith as if we trust and then, when we discover that we are kept safe, our trust emerges.
As we take enough time to listen to our hearts, we find a dialog is going on! The dialog is between belief and disbelief. It goes something like this, “Should I leave this place of comfort, not knowing whether there is going to be comfort beyond this place?” As we leap into the uncharted space, we discover that the boundaries of God’s love are greater than we imagined. We find an “at-home-ness” that keeps expanding.
This new week will be filled with hundreds of possibilities. Leap into the spaciousness of the eternal, ever-present one; or…debate about it; or … stay in the present; or …??? May your trusting stay nimble.
Prayer: God of the journey, may my week be filled with opportunities to leap, knowing that you will embrace me.
--Ben Keckler
05.04.09
“We both believe and disbelieve a hundred times an hour
which keeps believing nimble.”
--Emily Dickinson
What would it have been like to know and talk with Emily Dickinson? From time to time one of her great lines appears and it makes so much sense. She was so insightful. The quote above is one of those insightful quotes.
The struggle to trust God in all things is so very difficult. Trusting calls for a real leap of faith. Life really is acting in faith as if we trust and then, when we discover that we are kept safe, our trust emerges.
As we take enough time to listen to our hearts, we find a dialog is going on! The dialog is between belief and disbelief. It goes something like this, “Should I leave this place of comfort, not knowing whether there is going to be comfort beyond this place?” As we leap into the uncharted space, we discover that the boundaries of God’s love are greater than we imagined. We find an “at-home-ness” that keeps expanding.
This new week will be filled with hundreds of possibilities. Leap into the spaciousness of the eternal, ever-present one; or…debate about it; or … stay in the present; or …??? May your trusting stay nimble.
Prayer: God of the journey, may my week be filled with opportunities to leap, knowing that you will embrace me.
--Ben Keckler
05.04.09
Friday, May 1, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 1
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
--A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
Psalm 65: 9
During the months of May and June we are privileged to enjoy many types of family related celebrations-- from Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, Memorial Day weekend. From time to time during these next weeks I am going to have some devotional prayers and thoughts about the life journey. These rhythms come to us because “Father Time” continues to bless our lives. Come and meditate.
Today a Mary Mackintosh prayer, filled with the spirit of Irish descendants, offers this prayer for a child transitioning into adolescence:
Power of raven be yours,
Power of eagle be yours
Power of the Fianna.
Power of storm be yours,
Power of moon be yours,
Power of sun.
Power of sea be yours,
Power of land be yours,
Power of heaven.
Goodness of sea be yours,
Goodness of earth be yours,
Goodness of heaven.
Each day be joy to you
No day be too sad for you,
Honour and tenderness embrace you always.
Note: Fianna refers to a listing of heroes and heroines of Irish folk legends.
--Ben Keckler
05.01.09
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
--A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
Psalm 65: 9
During the months of May and June we are privileged to enjoy many types of family related celebrations-- from Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, Memorial Day weekend. From time to time during these next weeks I am going to have some devotional prayers and thoughts about the life journey. These rhythms come to us because “Father Time” continues to bless our lives. Come and meditate.
Today a Mary Mackintosh prayer, filled with the spirit of Irish descendants, offers this prayer for a child transitioning into adolescence:
Power of raven be yours,
Power of eagle be yours
Power of the Fianna.
Power of storm be yours,
Power of moon be yours,
Power of sun.
Power of sea be yours,
Power of land be yours,
Power of heaven.
Goodness of sea be yours,
Goodness of earth be yours,
Goodness of heaven.
Each day be joy to you
No day be too sad for you,
Honour and tenderness embrace you always.
Note: Fianna refers to a listing of heroes and heroines of Irish folk legends.
--Ben Keckler
05.01.09
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
