Living in This Moment
For many of us today is the final day of the work week. And for many, the weekend will be their time of work. Some businesses, such as the hospital, run 24—7—365! While some renew themselves over the weekend, others will be busy at the work place.
Whatever days you work and whatever days are your “off-time” remain in the present moment, always living in the present tense.
The Cheyenne Indian had a proverb:
“When you lose the rhythm of the drumbeat of God,
you are lost from the peace and rhythm of life.”
Listen to the drumbeat today, all weekend long, and always!
Prayer: O God, satisfy us with your steadfast love. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.31.09
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, July 30
Living in This Moment - Part 4
Today’s devotion comes from a Frederick Buechner sermon, preached at the 200th anniversary celebration of the Congregational church in Rupert, Vermont. His concluding remarks:
“There is plenty of work to be done down here, God knows.
To struggle each day to walk the paths of righteousness is no pushover,
And struggle we must because just as we are fed like sheep in green pastures,
we must also feed God’s sheep.
We must help bear each other’s burdens.
We must pray for each other.
We must nourish each other, weep with each other, rejoice with each other.
Sometimes we must just learn to let each other alone.
In short, we must love each other. We must never forget that.”
We are on the “down-side” of this week. Still today, in this present tense moment, there is much that we can, should and must do. May you be empowered for work right now!
Prayer: Ever-present God, bless me in my struggles. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.30.09
Today’s devotion comes from a Frederick Buechner sermon, preached at the 200th anniversary celebration of the Congregational church in Rupert, Vermont. His concluding remarks:
“There is plenty of work to be done down here, God knows.
To struggle each day to walk the paths of righteousness is no pushover,
And struggle we must because just as we are fed like sheep in green pastures,
we must also feed God’s sheep.
We must help bear each other’s burdens.
We must pray for each other.
We must nourish each other, weep with each other, rejoice with each other.
Sometimes we must just learn to let each other alone.
In short, we must love each other. We must never forget that.”
We are on the “down-side” of this week. Still today, in this present tense moment, there is much that we can, should and must do. May you be empowered for work right now!
Prayer: Ever-present God, bless me in my struggles. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.30.09
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, July 29
Living in This Moment - Part 3
Living in the present can be pretty tense! Hostilities seem to explode with unprecedented regularity. Our society is filled with people who can eloquently use political rhetoric to defend their inner passion, even if it delays needed reform. The Lenape tribe shares the following wisdom writing for the leaders of this world and for all inhabitants of it. It reads:
"We are minded to live at Peace: If we intend at anytime to make War upon you, we will let you know of it, and the Reasons why we make War with you; and if you make us satisfaction for the Injury done us, for which the War is intended, then we will not make War on you. And if you intend at any time to make War on us, we would have you let us know of it, and the Reasons for which you make War on us, and then if we do not make satisfaction for the Injury done unto you, then you make War on us, otherwise you ought not to do it.
Long and prayerful meditation on this bit of wisdom is in order this week. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in the sight of the Holy One, the Creator of the universe."
Prayer: God of today, be near your world. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.29.09
Living in the present can be pretty tense! Hostilities seem to explode with unprecedented regularity. Our society is filled with people who can eloquently use political rhetoric to defend their inner passion, even if it delays needed reform. The Lenape tribe shares the following wisdom writing for the leaders of this world and for all inhabitants of it. It reads:
"We are minded to live at Peace: If we intend at anytime to make War upon you, we will let you know of it, and the Reasons why we make War with you; and if you make us satisfaction for the Injury done us, for which the War is intended, then we will not make War on you. And if you intend at any time to make War on us, we would have you let us know of it, and the Reasons for which you make War on us, and then if we do not make satisfaction for the Injury done unto you, then you make War on us, otherwise you ought not to do it.
Long and prayerful meditation on this bit of wisdom is in order this week. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in the sight of the Holy One, the Creator of the universe."
Prayer: God of today, be near your world. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.29.09
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, July 28
Living in This Moment - Part 2
Erasing the “ought to have” and the “if only” aspects of our lives is important. To forget what is behind is the best way to face today. This is NOT easy, but it is the BEST.
Henri Nouwen writes, “So many things have happened in our lives about which we feel uneasy, regretful, angry, confused or ambivalent. And all these feelings are often colored by guilt. Guilt that says: ‘You ought to have done…..’ or ‘You ought to have said…..’” The result is that we cannot be fully present in the moment because we are holding on to past feelings that obscure our living in the moment.
The same is true of our “if only” moments. When we are wondering about things like “What if the stock market plunges even more?” we are contemplating things beyond our control. We can end up missing the beauty that surrounds us.
Each of us has this moment, this day to be present and attentive to our inner voice and each other. Be alert friends, the One who is, is present right now.
Prayer: God, help me to discover you right here, right now! Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.28.09
Erasing the “ought to have” and the “if only” aspects of our lives is important. To forget what is behind is the best way to face today. This is NOT easy, but it is the BEST.
Henri Nouwen writes, “So many things have happened in our lives about which we feel uneasy, regretful, angry, confused or ambivalent. And all these feelings are often colored by guilt. Guilt that says: ‘You ought to have done…..’ or ‘You ought to have said…..’” The result is that we cannot be fully present in the moment because we are holding on to past feelings that obscure our living in the moment.
The same is true of our “if only” moments. When we are wondering about things like “What if the stock market plunges even more?” we are contemplating things beyond our control. We can end up missing the beauty that surrounds us.
Each of us has this moment, this day to be present and attentive to our inner voice and each other. Be alert friends, the One who is, is present right now.
Prayer: God, help me to discover you right here, right now! Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.28.09
Daily Devotion - Monday, July 27
Living This Moment
One of the struggles we encounter is the struggle of living “this day” to the fullest. It is a struggle because we can easily be distracted—looking back and reflecting on our could have/ should have opportunities; looking forward and hoping about our “I wish”/“I want” desires.
The writer of the Psalm exclaims, “This is the day that our God has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Today is a new day and each hour, in fact each minute is a new beginning. It is a time to make things new. As you experience the gift of life today, try to hear that inner voice that is saying to each of us: “I have a gift for you and can’t wait for you to see it!”
As we choose to listen to that inner voice, we will find that the past is gone and we will never change it. As we keep listening to that voice, we will find ourselves opening more and more to discover the new life hidden in the moment, waiting eagerly to be born.
Enjoy THIS DAY!
Prayer: God of today, keep me attentive to each moment of this day. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.27.09
One of the struggles we encounter is the struggle of living “this day” to the fullest. It is a struggle because we can easily be distracted—looking back and reflecting on our could have/ should have opportunities; looking forward and hoping about our “I wish”/“I want” desires.
The writer of the Psalm exclaims, “This is the day that our God has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Today is a new day and each hour, in fact each minute is a new beginning. It is a time to make things new. As you experience the gift of life today, try to hear that inner voice that is saying to each of us: “I have a gift for you and can’t wait for you to see it!”
As we choose to listen to that inner voice, we will find that the past is gone and we will never change it. As we keep listening to that voice, we will find ourselves opening more and more to discover the new life hidden in the moment, waiting eagerly to be born.
Enjoy THIS DAY!
Prayer: God of today, keep me attentive to each moment of this day. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.27.09
Friday, July 24, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, July 24
Restoring the Soul
“He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul….”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23:2, 3
Today is a day for many of us to anticipate the renewal of the weekend. The week has been demanding for each of us—every week is. Soon we can move from the labors of the week to the fulfillment that comes in resting, relaxing, playing, partying and doing tasks around the house. The “honey-do” list may even be longer than we want it to be!
Renewal is critical. We have to rest in order to be healthy. We need to have some time to “let loose” of the stuff that has piled up within. Max Lucado writes, “The bow cannot always be bent without fear of breaking. For the field to bear fruit, it must occasionally lie fallow. SLOW DOWN and God will heal you. He will bring rest to your mind, to your body, and most of all, to your soul. God will lead you to green pastures” (even if it is a lawn to be mowed!).
Slowing down… important stuff. May your weekend give you enough time to mow your green pasture and then sit in a lawn chair and sip on a beverage and enjoy the beauty of your world.
Prayer: God, I’m looking forward to a weekend that allows you to restore my soul. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.24.09
“He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul….”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23:2, 3
Today is a day for many of us to anticipate the renewal of the weekend. The week has been demanding for each of us—every week is. Soon we can move from the labors of the week to the fulfillment that comes in resting, relaxing, playing, partying and doing tasks around the house. The “honey-do” list may even be longer than we want it to be!
Renewal is critical. We have to rest in order to be healthy. We need to have some time to “let loose” of the stuff that has piled up within. Max Lucado writes, “The bow cannot always be bent without fear of breaking. For the field to bear fruit, it must occasionally lie fallow. SLOW DOWN and God will heal you. He will bring rest to your mind, to your body, and most of all, to your soul. God will lead you to green pastures” (even if it is a lawn to be mowed!).
Slowing down… important stuff. May your weekend give you enough time to mow your green pasture and then sit in a lawn chair and sip on a beverage and enjoy the beauty of your world.
Prayer: God, I’m looking forward to a weekend that allows you to restore my soul. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.24.09
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, July 23
God Be In My Head
“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,
for God will speak peace to his people…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 85: 8
Some years ago the Reverend Jim Cotter wrote a brief prayer entitled, “God be in my head.” Over the years the prayer has been expanded. Receive these excerpts as a prayer for today:
“God be in my head and in my understanding
God be in my eyes and in my looking
God be in my mouth and in my speaking
God be in my tongue and in my tasting
God be in my lips and in my greeting
“God be in my arms and in my reaching
God be in my hands and in my working
God be in my legs and in my walking
God be in my joints and in my relating
“God be in my guts and in my feeling
God be in my bowels and in my forgiving
God be in my lungs and in my breathing
God be in my heart and in my loving
“God be in my blood and in my living
God be in my bones and in my dying
God be at my end and at my reviving. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
07.23.09
“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,
for God will speak peace to his people…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 85: 8
Some years ago the Reverend Jim Cotter wrote a brief prayer entitled, “God be in my head.” Over the years the prayer has been expanded. Receive these excerpts as a prayer for today:
“God be in my head and in my understanding
God be in my eyes and in my looking
God be in my mouth and in my speaking
God be in my tongue and in my tasting
God be in my lips and in my greeting
“God be in my arms and in my reaching
God be in my hands and in my working
God be in my legs and in my walking
God be in my joints and in my relating
“God be in my guts and in my feeling
God be in my bowels and in my forgiving
God be in my lungs and in my breathing
God be in my heart and in my loving
“God be in my blood and in my living
God be in my bones and in my dying
God be at my end and at my reviving. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
07.23.09
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, July 22
Dark Valleys and Light
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23: 4
Several years ago I spent some time in a dark valley. The mission was in Nicaragua after Hurricane Mitch had devastated the countryside. The mountains surrounding the valley had been occupied by warring political forces some years before the great hurricane hit. It was a dark valley. The nearest dusk to dawn light was 15 miles away. The town that became our home only had 4 houses with electricity and each of those houses had one 60-watt bulb. Believe me, it was a dark, dark valley. Yet, none of the mission team ever felt fear. As we built homes with the Nicaraguans we could feel God’s hope pouring into that dark valley.
Last year at this time I was preparing for a trip to genocide riddled Rwanda. The trip was a time for our delegation to understand how the people were working through their genocidal dark valley. It was a difficult trip. I sensed some fear, but the feelings of hopefulness overshadowed the fears! I am still amazed.
Here at the hospital we encounter folks in their own form of a dark valley. For the sick, we bring God’s rays of healing. For the grieving, we point them toward glimmering stars of reunion. For the dying, we spend time encouraging them to feel the flame of the eternal within. For those who are confused, we use the light of Sacred Writings. In the dark valleys of the personal journey, there is enough light. May your day bring light to those in darkness and may your dark valleys have light.
Prayer: God of mountain and God of valley, be with me today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.22.09
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23: 4
Several years ago I spent some time in a dark valley. The mission was in Nicaragua after Hurricane Mitch had devastated the countryside. The mountains surrounding the valley had been occupied by warring political forces some years before the great hurricane hit. It was a dark valley. The nearest dusk to dawn light was 15 miles away. The town that became our home only had 4 houses with electricity and each of those houses had one 60-watt bulb. Believe me, it was a dark, dark valley. Yet, none of the mission team ever felt fear. As we built homes with the Nicaraguans we could feel God’s hope pouring into that dark valley.
Last year at this time I was preparing for a trip to genocide riddled Rwanda. The trip was a time for our delegation to understand how the people were working through their genocidal dark valley. It was a difficult trip. I sensed some fear, but the feelings of hopefulness overshadowed the fears! I am still amazed.
Here at the hospital we encounter folks in their own form of a dark valley. For the sick, we bring God’s rays of healing. For the grieving, we point them toward glimmering stars of reunion. For the dying, we spend time encouraging them to feel the flame of the eternal within. For those who are confused, we use the light of Sacred Writings. In the dark valleys of the personal journey, there is enough light. May your day bring light to those in darkness and may your dark valleys have light.
Prayer: God of mountain and God of valley, be with me today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.22.09
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, July 21
Right Here – Right Now
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23: 6
How easy it is to think about all the days of our lives. Some of us are looking forward to some vacation days and it is easy to allow our thoughts to drift toward a sunny beach, the deck of a cruising ship or to a trip through the snow covered peaks of mountains! Some of us are aware that we, or members in our family, are scheduled for a visit to the doctor because of some health problems. The list is probably endless. We tend to think more about tomorrow and how the goodness and mercy of the Lord will be experienced in our tomorrows.
Max Lucado, popular writer and pastor, reminds us that we need to spend our time with today. “Don’t start tackling tomorrow’s problems UNTIL tomorrow. You don’t have tomorrow’s strength yet. You simply have enough for TODAY. We don’t need to know what will happen tomorrow.” Wow—pretty tough stuff to hear! (Even though we know he is right on target.)
So, here we are. Right here. Right now. Lord, what is this moment all about?
Prayer: God, grant me enough of what I need today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.21.09
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life…”
--An ancient song
Psalm 23: 6
How easy it is to think about all the days of our lives. Some of us are looking forward to some vacation days and it is easy to allow our thoughts to drift toward a sunny beach, the deck of a cruising ship or to a trip through the snow covered peaks of mountains! Some of us are aware that we, or members in our family, are scheduled for a visit to the doctor because of some health problems. The list is probably endless. We tend to think more about tomorrow and how the goodness and mercy of the Lord will be experienced in our tomorrows.
Max Lucado, popular writer and pastor, reminds us that we need to spend our time with today. “Don’t start tackling tomorrow’s problems UNTIL tomorrow. You don’t have tomorrow’s strength yet. You simply have enough for TODAY. We don’t need to know what will happen tomorrow.” Wow—pretty tough stuff to hear! (Even though we know he is right on target.)
So, here we are. Right here. Right now. Lord, what is this moment all about?
Prayer: God, grant me enough of what I need today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.21.09
Daily Devotion - Monday, July 20
Living Your Feelings
“Therefore, when the Lord heard, he was full of rage;
his anger mounted against Israel because
they did not trust in God’s saving power.”
--From one of the songs
Psalm 78: 21
Every so often it is good to be reminded about the significance of self-care. One of the more challenging parts of self-care is taking time to “live your feelings.” Take anger, for example. Healthy self care when you are angry means that you will allow yourself to feel the anger. Having felt it you can then decide what you want to do: maybe you will just feel it, maybe you will express it, and maybe you will take some action. Today’s verse from the sacred writings demonstrates what “living your feelings” is all about.
Take the feeling of hurt. If you keep it inside, the hurt will grow but when you talk to the person who hurt you, you move towards resolution. If you feel tears, cry your tears. Living your feelings is the healthy thing to do.
We cannot be anything for anyone else unless we learn to take care of ourselves. By demonstrating the importance of self-care we can and will become the caregivers that we have the potential to be. Have a good day living your feelings, another part of being good to you.
Prayer: God who was full of rage, help me to live my feelings. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.20.09
“Therefore, when the Lord heard, he was full of rage;
his anger mounted against Israel because
they did not trust in God’s saving power.”
--From one of the songs
Psalm 78: 21
Every so often it is good to be reminded about the significance of self-care. One of the more challenging parts of self-care is taking time to “live your feelings.” Take anger, for example. Healthy self care when you are angry means that you will allow yourself to feel the anger. Having felt it you can then decide what you want to do: maybe you will just feel it, maybe you will express it, and maybe you will take some action. Today’s verse from the sacred writings demonstrates what “living your feelings” is all about.
Take the feeling of hurt. If you keep it inside, the hurt will grow but when you talk to the person who hurt you, you move towards resolution. If you feel tears, cry your tears. Living your feelings is the healthy thing to do.
We cannot be anything for anyone else unless we learn to take care of ourselves. By demonstrating the importance of self-care we can and will become the caregivers that we have the potential to be. Have a good day living your feelings, another part of being good to you.
Prayer: God who was full of rage, help me to live my feelings. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.20.09
Daily Devotion - Friday, July 17
Be Good to Yourself
“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, ‘Father?’
‘Yes, my son?’ Abraham replied.
‘The fire and the wood are here,’ Isaac said, ‘but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?’”
--An old faith story
Genesis 22: 7
“Be good to yourself” is an activity that we all should remember and practice far more than we do. Today’s tip would go something like this: If you have a question or if you want something from someone, ask.
Keeping the question inside will never yield an answer, only possible answers. Generally we can be perfectly OK with an answer of “No.” If we fail to ask, we are not being true to ourselves. The old faith story of Abraham and Isaac is a good example. Isaac understood the whole idea of burnt offerings, knowing a “sacrifice” was necessary. The more they journeyed, the more curious he became. It looked like the only sacrifice available was Isaac or his father (and he was pretty sure it couldn’t be dad). He kept asking questions.
Learning to ask questions allows you to release the desires of your heart without fear. Have a good weekend. Ask the questions. Receive the answers. Be true to yourself and you will be practicing the art of being good to yourself.
Prayer: God, will you please keep watching over this world (and me)? Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.17.09
“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, ‘Father?’
‘Yes, my son?’ Abraham replied.
‘The fire and the wood are here,’ Isaac said, ‘but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?’”
--An old faith story
Genesis 22: 7
“Be good to yourself” is an activity that we all should remember and practice far more than we do. Today’s tip would go something like this: If you have a question or if you want something from someone, ask.
Keeping the question inside will never yield an answer, only possible answers. Generally we can be perfectly OK with an answer of “No.” If we fail to ask, we are not being true to ourselves. The old faith story of Abraham and Isaac is a good example. Isaac understood the whole idea of burnt offerings, knowing a “sacrifice” was necessary. The more they journeyed, the more curious he became. It looked like the only sacrifice available was Isaac or his father (and he was pretty sure it couldn’t be dad). He kept asking questions.
Learning to ask questions allows you to release the desires of your heart without fear. Have a good weekend. Ask the questions. Receive the answers. Be true to yourself and you will be practicing the art of being good to yourself.
Prayer: God, will you please keep watching over this world (and me)? Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.17.09
Daily Devotion - Thursday, July 16
Living in the Present
“So do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will bring worries of its own.
Today’s trouble is enough for today.”
--From one of Jesus’ sermons
Matthew 6: 34
Every so often it is good to be reminded about the significance of self-care. Last night I spoke in Cincinnati, Ohio at the Joubert Syndrome Foundation Conference about how essential self-care is for people who are either delegated or attracted to the caregiving field. Every caregiver, including the support services needed for the delivery of quality care, needs to be reminded about this important attribute for daily living.
There are times when we jump into the future rather than living in the present. When we start to worry or feel anxious, it is good to remind ourselves that we have moved away from the present moment. Today’s verse from Scripture is significant. We are reminded to stay focused, focused on whatever is happening at that moment. By dedicating all our energy to the present, we will demonstrate the importance of self-care that might also be known as “Be good to yourself therapy.”
Prayer: God of all time and space, keep me in the present and nudge me when I have moved too far into tomorrow. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.16.09
“So do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will bring worries of its own.
Today’s trouble is enough for today.”
--From one of Jesus’ sermons
Matthew 6: 34
Every so often it is good to be reminded about the significance of self-care. Last night I spoke in Cincinnati, Ohio at the Joubert Syndrome Foundation Conference about how essential self-care is for people who are either delegated or attracted to the caregiving field. Every caregiver, including the support services needed for the delivery of quality care, needs to be reminded about this important attribute for daily living.
There are times when we jump into the future rather than living in the present. When we start to worry or feel anxious, it is good to remind ourselves that we have moved away from the present moment. Today’s verse from Scripture is significant. We are reminded to stay focused, focused on whatever is happening at that moment. By dedicating all our energy to the present, we will demonstrate the importance of self-care that might also be known as “Be good to yourself therapy.”
Prayer: God of all time and space, keep me in the present and nudge me when I have moved too far into tomorrow. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.16.09
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, July 15
Fireworks of Spirit Renewal
“Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!”
--From the final hymn in the Psalter
Psalm 150: 6
Recently the songs of freedom were sung and played. They will continue to be heard as long as we continue to give attention to the tasks of liberty that our ancestors envisioned. We gazed at fireworks exploding before our eyes and beheld their awesome grandeur. Today provides an opportunity to look inward and allow the fireworks of spirit renewal to create an inner beauty that rivals the magnificence of that which we saw just a few days ago. To help us in achieving this, I share with you this prayer of Caitlin Matthews, found in one of the new books on my shelf, Prayers for Healing.
“From the depths of holy silence,
I give thanks for the joy and energy of life.
May all beings enjoy the vitality of their existence.
“I remember all that suffer great pain and long-term illness,
especially (add names).
May the Healer of Hurts breathe balm and restoration into all wounded lives.
“May all negative, angry and harmful attitudes,
especially my (add what you need to)
that I harbor within me be transformed into new available life.
The dance of a summer day calls my steps:
May I respond to the rhythm and melody of its music.”
--Ben Keckler
07.16.09
“Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!”
--From the final hymn in the Psalter
Psalm 150: 6
Recently the songs of freedom were sung and played. They will continue to be heard as long as we continue to give attention to the tasks of liberty that our ancestors envisioned. We gazed at fireworks exploding before our eyes and beheld their awesome grandeur. Today provides an opportunity to look inward and allow the fireworks of spirit renewal to create an inner beauty that rivals the magnificence of that which we saw just a few days ago. To help us in achieving this, I share with you this prayer of Caitlin Matthews, found in one of the new books on my shelf, Prayers for Healing.
“From the depths of holy silence,
I give thanks for the joy and energy of life.
May all beings enjoy the vitality of their existence.
“I remember all that suffer great pain and long-term illness,
especially (add names).
May the Healer of Hurts breathe balm and restoration into all wounded lives.
“May all negative, angry and harmful attitudes,
especially my (add what you need to)
that I harbor within me be transformed into new available life.
The dance of a summer day calls my steps:
May I respond to the rhythm and melody of its music.”
--Ben Keckler
07.16.09
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, July 14
The Last Hymn Story for Now
The county where I work is privileged to have a significant number of Quakers. John Greenleaf Whittier, America’s beloved Quaker poet, wrote the hymn “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”. Over 75 of his poems have been made into hymns.
Whittier was a good example of quiet godliness in word and in deed. One writer said, “He left upon our literature the stamp of genius and upon our religion the touch of sanity.” Allow today’s hymn to slow down your rushing spirit, to bathe you with a calm assurance and to set the tone for a calm and enjoyable rest of the week.
“Dear Lord and Father of mankind, forgive our foolish ways!
Reclothe us in our rightful mind; in purer lives thy service find,
In deeper reverence, praise!
“Drop Thy still dews of quietness till all our strivings cease;
Take from our souls the strain and stress,
And let our ordered lives confess the beauty of Thy peace.
“Breathe thru the heats of our desire Thy coolness and Thy balm;
Let sense be dumb, let flesh retire; speak thru the earthquake, wind and fire,
O still small voice of calm.”
Prayer: Lord God, grant me a quiet mind that trusts you and your kindness. Allow me to go on without fear, recalling that you are always near. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.14.09
The county where I work is privileged to have a significant number of Quakers. John Greenleaf Whittier, America’s beloved Quaker poet, wrote the hymn “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”. Over 75 of his poems have been made into hymns.
Whittier was a good example of quiet godliness in word and in deed. One writer said, “He left upon our literature the stamp of genius and upon our religion the touch of sanity.” Allow today’s hymn to slow down your rushing spirit, to bathe you with a calm assurance and to set the tone for a calm and enjoyable rest of the week.
“Dear Lord and Father of mankind, forgive our foolish ways!
Reclothe us in our rightful mind; in purer lives thy service find,
In deeper reverence, praise!
“Drop Thy still dews of quietness till all our strivings cease;
Take from our souls the strain and stress,
And let our ordered lives confess the beauty of Thy peace.
“Breathe thru the heats of our desire Thy coolness and Thy balm;
Let sense be dumb, let flesh retire; speak thru the earthquake, wind and fire,
O still small voice of calm.”
Prayer: Lord God, grant me a quiet mind that trusts you and your kindness. Allow me to go on without fear, recalling that you are always near. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.14.09
Monday, July 13, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, July 13
One More Story About Old Hymns
Today’s hymn is particularly special, at least in the opinion of this chaplain. Today’s hymn is entitled “Be Still, My Soul”. This hymn is special because gifted women of faith did the text and its translation. Often the work of faith-filled women from the 18th and 19th centuries was overlooked.
Katharina von Schlegel wrote the original text in the early 1700’s. She was a Lutheran from Germany, taught at an evangelical women’s seminary and was influenced by the Pietistic Revival in her country. About 100 years later, Jane Borthwick translated the text into English. Borthwick was a part of a similar spiritual revival that took place in England through the Puritan and Wesleyan traditions. Here is the text:
“Be still, my soul—the Lord is on thy side!
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide—in every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul—thy best, thy heavenly Friend,
Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
“Be still, my soul—thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past;
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake—all now mysterious shall be bright at last!
Be still, my soul—the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below."
Prayer: Still my soul, O God. Help me to listen, to follow and to rest in the mysteries of your leading. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.13.09
Today’s hymn is particularly special, at least in the opinion of this chaplain. Today’s hymn is entitled “Be Still, My Soul”. This hymn is special because gifted women of faith did the text and its translation. Often the work of faith-filled women from the 18th and 19th centuries was overlooked.
Katharina von Schlegel wrote the original text in the early 1700’s. She was a Lutheran from Germany, taught at an evangelical women’s seminary and was influenced by the Pietistic Revival in her country. About 100 years later, Jane Borthwick translated the text into English. Borthwick was a part of a similar spiritual revival that took place in England through the Puritan and Wesleyan traditions. Here is the text:
“Be still, my soul—the Lord is on thy side!
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide—in every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul—thy best, thy heavenly Friend,
Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
“Be still, my soul—thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past;
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake—all now mysterious shall be bright at last!
Be still, my soul—the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below."
Prayer: Still my soul, O God. Help me to listen, to follow and to rest in the mysteries of your leading. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.13.09
Friday, July 10, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, July 10
One More Story
I've decided to close out the week with this story about a hymn that has sustained people of faith. Sacred Scripture displays a sincere confidence in the stability of God’s providential care. In fact, the confidence displayed in Psalm 46 served as the inspiration for today’s hymn. While there is little known about the exact authorship of the hymn “How Firm a Foundation,” there is a certainty in the language that everyone deserves to read:
“How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in God’s excellent Word!
What more can God say than to you He has said—
To you, who for refuge to Him have now fled.
“Fear not, I am with you—O be not dismayed,
For I am your God, I will still give you aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my gracious, omnipotent hand.
“When thru the deep waters thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee—
I only design thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.”
Life can be demanding —in our work and in our play we will need to call forth the very best of the gifts we possess. There is a firm foundation for us to stand on as we go through life. Stand on that firm foundation today!
Prayer: Strong, caring God, plant my feet firmly on your foundation and help me to live life confidently, relying on your strength. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.10.09
I've decided to close out the week with this story about a hymn that has sustained people of faith. Sacred Scripture displays a sincere confidence in the stability of God’s providential care. In fact, the confidence displayed in Psalm 46 served as the inspiration for today’s hymn. While there is little known about the exact authorship of the hymn “How Firm a Foundation,” there is a certainty in the language that everyone deserves to read:
“How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in God’s excellent Word!
What more can God say than to you He has said—
To you, who for refuge to Him have now fled.
“Fear not, I am with you—O be not dismayed,
For I am your God, I will still give you aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my gracious, omnipotent hand.
“When thru the deep waters thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee—
I only design thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.”
Life can be demanding —in our work and in our play we will need to call forth the very best of the gifts we possess. There is a firm foundation for us to stand on as we go through life. Stand on that firm foundation today!
Prayer: Strong, caring God, plant my feet firmly on your foundation and help me to live life confidently, relying on your strength. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.10.09
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, July 9
Another Old Hymn Story
Here is a story about a hymn that has sustained people of faith for several centuries! On the other side of the Atlantic in the country of Wales (about 1740), there was a young preacher named Howell Harris. He inspired William Williams to change his career from medicine to ministry. Williams traveled by horseback across the countryside of Wales, logging over 100,000 miles in his 43 years of ministry.
The hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” was inspired by William’s preaching and addresses the theme of God’s guidance in our daily living. The text draws on the imagery of the wilderness journey of the Hebrew people:
“Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, pilgrim thru this barren land;
I am weak, but Thou art mighty—hold me with Thy powerful hand;
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more.
“Open now the crystal fountain, whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through;
Strong Deliverer, strong deliverer, be Thou still my strength and shield.
“When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
Bear me thru the swelling current; land me safe on Canaan’s side:
Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee.”
Today is another day we need guidance from the One who is our rock and our fortress. Today is another day where we may encounter persons with anxious fears or persons who are looking for a healing stream to replenish their aching soul. Rest assured that God will strengthen you for your work. May songs of praises flow from deep within you throughout the day!
--Ben Keckler
07.09.09
Here is a story about a hymn that has sustained people of faith for several centuries! On the other side of the Atlantic in the country of Wales (about 1740), there was a young preacher named Howell Harris. He inspired William Williams to change his career from medicine to ministry. Williams traveled by horseback across the countryside of Wales, logging over 100,000 miles in his 43 years of ministry.
The hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” was inspired by William’s preaching and addresses the theme of God’s guidance in our daily living. The text draws on the imagery of the wilderness journey of the Hebrew people:
“Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, pilgrim thru this barren land;
I am weak, but Thou art mighty—hold me with Thy powerful hand;
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more.
“Open now the crystal fountain, whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through;
Strong Deliverer, strong deliverer, be Thou still my strength and shield.
“When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
Bear me thru the swelling current; land me safe on Canaan’s side:
Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee.”
Today is another day we need guidance from the One who is our rock and our fortress. Today is another day where we may encounter persons with anxious fears or persons who are looking for a healing stream to replenish their aching soul. Rest assured that God will strengthen you for your work. May songs of praises flow from deep within you throughout the day!
--Ben Keckler
07.09.09
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, July 8
A Look at Some Old Hymns
I'd like to share some stories about various hymns that have sustained people of faith. One of the Jewish psalms that is thousands of years old, served to inspire Isaac Watts, the father of English hymnody, to write the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.” Watts, who lived from 1674 to 1748, penned words for more than 600 hymns. His 260 year-old text still makes sense today:
"O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home.
"Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all its sons away; they fly, forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day.
"O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, be thou our guide while life shall last, and our eternal home."
The mystery of how our lives fit in the continuum of time will always be with us. Watts expressed certainty in a Creator who is present and active in life. As the years continue to go by, it is clear the vast majority of people still believe that God is actively involved in life. May your day be filled with a deepened confidence in the One who is from everlasting to everlasting.
--Ben Keckler
07.08.09
I'd like to share some stories about various hymns that have sustained people of faith. One of the Jewish psalms that is thousands of years old, served to inspire Isaac Watts, the father of English hymnody, to write the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.” Watts, who lived from 1674 to 1748, penned words for more than 600 hymns. His 260 year-old text still makes sense today:
"O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home.
"Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all its sons away; they fly, forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day.
"O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, be thou our guide while life shall last, and our eternal home."
The mystery of how our lives fit in the continuum of time will always be with us. Watts expressed certainty in a Creator who is present and active in life. As the years continue to go by, it is clear the vast majority of people still believe that God is actively involved in life. May your day be filled with a deepened confidence in the One who is from everlasting to everlasting.
--Ben Keckler
07.08.09
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, July 7
Where Are You Looking These Days?
“Never look down to test the ground
Before taking your next step:
Only he who keeps his eye fixed on the far horizon
Will find his right road.”
--Markings by Dag Hammarskjold
Former Secretary-General of the United Nations
Dag Hammarskjold was a person of incredible insight. His spiritual diary, Markings, is filled with some pretty remarkable statements, statements that demand some attention. Today’s quote is intended to remind us of a vision we need to claim.
These words seem helpful as I write my final patriotic reflection for the past July 4th holiday. During this past year many of us (probably all of us) have spent quite a bit of time looking down and testing the ground. One way of describing the world's post 9/11 lifestyle is that people are consumed looking for the land mines that might be hidden right in front of us!
Hammarskjold reminds us that “getting on the right road” requires vision, vision into the distant tomorrows. What are the dreams you are dreaming? What work are you doing now because your eye is fixed on a far-horizon dream?
The old Hebrew hymn, Psalm 8, finds the author looking to the Lord and praising the majestic name of God. The writer looks at the wonder and the marvel of creation, finding in the creation a God who cares. It seems there is a distant horizon out there where peace is a reality. It seems there is a distant horizon where creation is singing the same song. It seems there is a world where there can be sharing by all and scarcity for none.
Working toward sustaining a global village where there is such hope may be a far horizon but it is the deepest patriotic thing that we can do. Hope you had a blessed 4th of July.
Prayer: God of all creation, help me to look up and see the far horizon that you’ve placed before all of us. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.07.09
“Never look down to test the ground
Before taking your next step:
Only he who keeps his eye fixed on the far horizon
Will find his right road.”
--Markings by Dag Hammarskjold
Former Secretary-General of the United Nations
Dag Hammarskjold was a person of incredible insight. His spiritual diary, Markings, is filled with some pretty remarkable statements, statements that demand some attention. Today’s quote is intended to remind us of a vision we need to claim.
These words seem helpful as I write my final patriotic reflection for the past July 4th holiday. During this past year many of us (probably all of us) have spent quite a bit of time looking down and testing the ground. One way of describing the world's post 9/11 lifestyle is that people are consumed looking for the land mines that might be hidden right in front of us!
Hammarskjold reminds us that “getting on the right road” requires vision, vision into the distant tomorrows. What are the dreams you are dreaming? What work are you doing now because your eye is fixed on a far-horizon dream?
The old Hebrew hymn, Psalm 8, finds the author looking to the Lord and praising the majestic name of God. The writer looks at the wonder and the marvel of creation, finding in the creation a God who cares. It seems there is a distant horizon out there where peace is a reality. It seems there is a distant horizon where creation is singing the same song. It seems there is a world where there can be sharing by all and scarcity for none.
Working toward sustaining a global village where there is such hope may be a far horizon but it is the deepest patriotic thing that we can do. Hope you had a blessed 4th of July.
Prayer: God of all creation, help me to look up and see the far horizon that you’ve placed before all of us. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.07.09
Monday, July 6, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, July 6
Not Ready To Forget Independence Weekend
“This land is your land,
This land is my land,
From California to the New York Island,
From the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters,
This land was made for you and me.”
From the time the Declaration of Independence set in motion the United States of America to this present day when we celebrate that declaration, the expansive boundaries of our land have invited people of the world to come and participate in this movement of freedom. Our history contains dark moments and moments when freedom’s torch burned with brilliance.
This holiday weekend I hope you spent some time thinking about the multitude of blessings you experience in this land. Today is also a day to spend time asking yourself questions about how you can make this land of opportunity a better “melting pot” for all people. Today is also a day to give thanks for founding fathers, for dedicated women and men, for leaders who carry forth the drumbeat of freedom.
This is a day which God has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Prayer: God whose blessings are more than I deserve, accept my thanks for this land and the freedom that I enjoy. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.06.09
“This land is your land,
This land is my land,
From California to the New York Island,
From the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters,
This land was made for you and me.”
From the time the Declaration of Independence set in motion the United States of America to this present day when we celebrate that declaration, the expansive boundaries of our land have invited people of the world to come and participate in this movement of freedom. Our history contains dark moments and moments when freedom’s torch burned with brilliance.
This holiday weekend I hope you spent some time thinking about the multitude of blessings you experience in this land. Today is also a day to spend time asking yourself questions about how you can make this land of opportunity a better “melting pot” for all people. Today is also a day to give thanks for founding fathers, for dedicated women and men, for leaders who carry forth the drumbeat of freedom.
This is a day which God has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Prayer: God whose blessings are more than I deserve, accept my thanks for this land and the freedom that I enjoy. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.06.09
Friday, July 3, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, July 3
Journey to Pikes Peak
Have you ever been to Pikes Peak? On a clear, clear day the Peak is visible on the western horizon for almost two hours before you get there. Just a few weeks ago, my wife and I were privileged to sit near the Peak and spoil the granddaughters with some ice cream in the town of Manitou Springs. Back in 1893, Katharine Lee Bates was so inspired by the view from the peak that she wrote some beautiful lyrics and then kept revising them until 1911. Finally the hymn was ready for publication.
O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain.
AMERICA! AMERICA! God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.
O beautiful for Pilgrim feet, whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat across the wilderness!
AMERICA! AMERICA! God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law!
O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife,
Who more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life!
AMERICA! AMERICA! May God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness and every gain divine!
O beautiful for patriot dream that sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam undimmed by human tears!
AMERICA! AMERICA! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea!
Prayer: God whose blessing we experience in more ways than we can imagine, continue to watch over us and shed your grace upon our land. Amen
--Ben Keckler
07.03.09
Have you ever been to Pikes Peak? On a clear, clear day the Peak is visible on the western horizon for almost two hours before you get there. Just a few weeks ago, my wife and I were privileged to sit near the Peak and spoil the granddaughters with some ice cream in the town of Manitou Springs. Back in 1893, Katharine Lee Bates was so inspired by the view from the peak that she wrote some beautiful lyrics and then kept revising them until 1911. Finally the hymn was ready for publication.
O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain.
AMERICA! AMERICA! God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.
O beautiful for Pilgrim feet, whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat across the wilderness!
AMERICA! AMERICA! God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law!
O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife,
Who more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life!
AMERICA! AMERICA! May God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness and every gain divine!
O beautiful for patriot dream that sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam undimmed by human tears!
AMERICA! AMERICA! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea!
Prayer: God whose blessing we experience in more ways than we can imagine, continue to watch over us and shed your grace upon our land. Amen
--Ben Keckler
07.03.09
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, July 2
Back To Some Early Roots of America
Two hundred twenty-seven years ago, one Revolutionary Army officer wrote George Washington a letter suggesting that a country with Mr. Washington as king was more preferable than “a nation under a republican form of government.” George wrote a letter that included these words:
“If I am not deceived in the knowledge of myself,
you could not have found a person to whom your schemes
are more disagreeable--………
Let me conjure you, if you have any regard for your country—
Concern for yourself or posterity—
Or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your mind….”
--George Washington
November, 1782
The temptation of powerful kingdoms is really great. The father of this nation realized that true strength would come as people patiently work to create a republic where sharing by all could mean scarcity for none. Most of us are quite affluent, especially when we look at the majority of the world. I wonder what insights Mr. Washington might share with us today.
Long may this land be bright with freedom’s holy light!
Prayer: God of our leaders and our God, build within us a deepening respect for our brothers and sisters in this land. Empower us to work for greater and better tomorrows in your global village. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.02.09
Two hundred twenty-seven years ago, one Revolutionary Army officer wrote George Washington a letter suggesting that a country with Mr. Washington as king was more preferable than “a nation under a republican form of government.” George wrote a letter that included these words:
“If I am not deceived in the knowledge of myself,
you could not have found a person to whom your schemes
are more disagreeable--………
Let me conjure you, if you have any regard for your country—
Concern for yourself or posterity—
Or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your mind….”
--George Washington
November, 1782
The temptation of powerful kingdoms is really great. The father of this nation realized that true strength would come as people patiently work to create a republic where sharing by all could mean scarcity for none. Most of us are quite affluent, especially when we look at the majority of the world. I wonder what insights Mr. Washington might share with us today.
Long may this land be bright with freedom’s holy light!
Prayer: God of our leaders and our God, build within us a deepening respect for our brothers and sisters in this land. Empower us to work for greater and better tomorrows in your global village. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.02.09
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Daily Devotion - July 1
Preparing for Our Nation's Birthday
Here are some lyrics that you will recognize immediately; try to get the feeling that Samuel Smith might have had as he penned these words nearly 180 years ago. The first public performance was July 4, 1832 in Boston.
My country ‘tis of thee
Sweet land of liberty: of thee I sing
Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim’s pride
From every mountainside let freedom ring.
My native country—thee
Land of the noble free thy name I love:
I love thy rocks and rills, thy woods and templed hills
My heart with rapture thrills like that above.
Let music swell the breeze
And ring from all the trees sweet freedom’s song.
Let all that breathe partake, let mortal tongues awake
Let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.
Our fathers’ God to thee
Author of liberty, to thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, with freedom’s holy light
Protect us by thy might, Great God, our King.
As we approach the 4th of July, I hope that we can honor the quiet center of our lives where Holy Love resides. While there will be plenty of noise and celebration; quiet humility before God is important, too!
Prayer: God of our mothers and fathers, create a sensitive and seeking spirit within me and within all my brothers and sisters who live in this nation of freedom. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.01.09
Here are some lyrics that you will recognize immediately; try to get the feeling that Samuel Smith might have had as he penned these words nearly 180 years ago. The first public performance was July 4, 1832 in Boston.
My country ‘tis of thee
Sweet land of liberty: of thee I sing
Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim’s pride
From every mountainside let freedom ring.
My native country—thee
Land of the noble free thy name I love:
I love thy rocks and rills, thy woods and templed hills
My heart with rapture thrills like that above.
Let music swell the breeze
And ring from all the trees sweet freedom’s song.
Let all that breathe partake, let mortal tongues awake
Let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.
Our fathers’ God to thee
Author of liberty, to thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, with freedom’s holy light
Protect us by thy might, Great God, our King.
As we approach the 4th of July, I hope that we can honor the quiet center of our lives where Holy Love resides. While there will be plenty of noise and celebration; quiet humility before God is important, too!
Prayer: God of our mothers and fathers, create a sensitive and seeking spirit within me and within all my brothers and sisters who live in this nation of freedom. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
07.01.09
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