Thanksgiving
“O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good;
the steadfast love of the Lord endures forever.”
--An ancient psalm of the Hebrew people
The day after Thanksgiving is here. Throughout the week, we’ve focused on giving thanks and praise to God and to others. It is good to remember that hearty thanks and praise should always include a horizontal and a vertical dimension. The above verse from Psalm 107 is an excellent example of the vertical dimension of praise. Sadly, sometimes our thanks and praise never includes a vertical dimension. Thomas Merton wrote this observation in Praying the Psalms:
“Praise is cheap today. Everything is praised.
Soap, beer, toothpaste, …movie stars, the latest gadgets
…everything is constantly being praised.
And, since everything is praised with the
official hollow enthusiasm of a radio announcer,
it turns out in the end that nothing is praised.”
Merton made this observation 53 years ago. It appears we are having trouble getting the picture. True and lasting praise needs both dimensions. As we move away from our day set aside for thanksgiving and praise, we will move toward the various sacred holidays of faith-filled people. May you find opportunities to extend your praise and thanks both horizontally and vertically.
--Ben Keckler
11.27.09
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 26
Thanksgiving
“I will praise you, my God, and bless your name forever and ever.
Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.”
--An ancient psalm of the Hebrew people
It is Thanksgiving Day. Being that I work in a hospital, I am fully aware that some people have to be on the job today. If you are working today, bless you.
In the book Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom writes about the time he talked with Morrie about the perfect day. Morrie, facing his death, described his perfect day as a day spent with family and friends, a day with a walk in the park, a nice Italian dinner, a night of dancing and finally a deep, wonderful sleep. “It was so simple. So average. I was actually a little disappointed,” Mitch writes.
For Morrie, it was a perfect day. Maybe this won’t be a “perfect” Thanksgiving, but it can be a meaningful one. Take time to give of yourself to those around you and give God thanks for what is happening at that very moment. If you do, you may discover some new realities about what makes a day “perfect.”
Thank you to all those who work today. Thanks be to God for your work.
--Ben Keckler
11.26.09
“I will praise you, my God, and bless your name forever and ever.
Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.”
--An ancient psalm of the Hebrew people
It is Thanksgiving Day. Being that I work in a hospital, I am fully aware that some people have to be on the job today. If you are working today, bless you.
In the book Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom writes about the time he talked with Morrie about the perfect day. Morrie, facing his death, described his perfect day as a day spent with family and friends, a day with a walk in the park, a nice Italian dinner, a night of dancing and finally a deep, wonderful sleep. “It was so simple. So average. I was actually a little disappointed,” Mitch writes.
For Morrie, it was a perfect day. Maybe this won’t be a “perfect” Thanksgiving, but it can be a meaningful one. Take time to give of yourself to those around you and give God thanks for what is happening at that very moment. If you do, you may discover some new realities about what makes a day “perfect.”
Thank you to all those who work today. Thanks be to God for your work.
--Ben Keckler
11.26.09
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 25
Thanksgiving
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises.”
--An ancient psalm of the Hebrew people
While there are obviously difficult times within our land, we are surrounded by numerous reasons to make a joyful noise of thanks to God. C. S. Lewis, well known author who made a tremendous journey of faith during his lifetime, called praise “inner health made audible.”
One of his writings is titled Reflections on the Psalms. Here are some pertinent words for consideration this Thanksgiving:
“The healthy person,even if luxuriously brought up and widely experienced in good cookery, could praise a very modest meal; the dyspeptic and the snob find fault with all.”
Let praise and thanksgiving sound forth from your lips this season. Break forth with positive notes of praise. We are blessed with bounty and God’s goodness surrounds us always.
Prayer: For all your blessings, great and small, we praise your name, O Lord. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
11.25.09
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises.”
--An ancient psalm of the Hebrew people
While there are obviously difficult times within our land, we are surrounded by numerous reasons to make a joyful noise of thanks to God. C. S. Lewis, well known author who made a tremendous journey of faith during his lifetime, called praise “inner health made audible.”
One of his writings is titled Reflections on the Psalms. Here are some pertinent words for consideration this Thanksgiving:
“The healthy person,even if luxuriously brought up and widely experienced in good cookery, could praise a very modest meal; the dyspeptic and the snob find fault with all.”
Let praise and thanksgiving sound forth from your lips this season. Break forth with positive notes of praise. We are blessed with bounty and God’s goodness surrounds us always.
Prayer: For all your blessings, great and small, we praise your name, O Lord. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
11.25.09
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November24
Thanksgiving
“Shout to God with loud shouts of praise.”
--Psalm 47: 1
● Hopefully your day will be more than feasting!
● Hopefully your day will include remembering.
● Hopefully your day will have some moments for authentic, soulful praise to God.
Praise and thanksgiving to God is central to life. I really appreciate these words from Rabbi Abraham Heschel, noted writer and teacher, “No one attains faith without first achieving the prerequisites of faith. First we praise, then we believe. We begin with a sense of wonder and arrive at radical amazement. The first response is reverence and awe, openness to the mystery that surrounds, and we are led to be overwhelmed by the glory.”
May your Thanksgiving week have enough time for you to shout your praises.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.09
“Shout to God with loud shouts of praise.”
--Psalm 47: 1
● Hopefully your day will be more than feasting!
● Hopefully your day will include remembering.
● Hopefully your day will have some moments for authentic, soulful praise to God.
Praise and thanksgiving to God is central to life. I really appreciate these words from Rabbi Abraham Heschel, noted writer and teacher, “No one attains faith without first achieving the prerequisites of faith. First we praise, then we believe. We begin with a sense of wonder and arrive at radical amazement. The first response is reverence and awe, openness to the mystery that surrounds, and we are led to be overwhelmed by the glory.”
May your Thanksgiving week have enough time for you to shout your praises.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.09
Monday, November 23, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 23
Thanksgiving
“Shout to God with loud shouts of praise.”
--Psalm 47: 1
● Hopefully your day will be more than feasting!
● Hopefully your day will include remembering.
● Hopefully your day will have some moments for authentic, soulful praise to God.
Praise and thanksgiving to God is central to life. I really appreciate these words from Rabbi Abraham Heschel, noted writer and teacher, “No one attains faith without first achieving the prerequisites of faith. First we praise, then we believe. We begin with a sense of wonder and arrive at radical amazement. The first response is reverence and awe, openness to the mystery that surrounds, and we are led to be overwhelmed by the glory.”
May your Thanksgiving week have enough time for you to shout your praises.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.09
“Shout to God with loud shouts of praise.”
--Psalm 47: 1
● Hopefully your day will be more than feasting!
● Hopefully your day will include remembering.
● Hopefully your day will have some moments for authentic, soulful praise to God.
Praise and thanksgiving to God is central to life. I really appreciate these words from Rabbi Abraham Heschel, noted writer and teacher, “No one attains faith without first achieving the prerequisites of faith. First we praise, then we believe. We begin with a sense of wonder and arrive at radical amazement. The first response is reverence and awe, openness to the mystery that surrounds, and we are led to be overwhelmed by the glory.”
May your Thanksgiving week have enough time for you to shout your praises.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.09
Friday, November 20, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 20
Responses from Our Souls
“The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
This is a verse that everyone should ponder.
People of faith who claim to follow the teachings of the world’s monotheistic religions embrace this as a true and trustworthy statement. This brief sentence speaks volumes about God who has created this vast universe, challenging us to remember the big picture, “God is with us” in this wonderful world. This brief sentence suggests that we can find safety (refuge) in, with, and through this omnipresent God.
Conflict is rampant. From the internal conflict we experience in our own being to the conflicts of the international political arena, we can feel like there is no shelter. However, the Psalm writer concludes with this resounding statement of faith, claiming that there is a place to find safety, there is a place for refuge.
Many of us will conclude a week of hard work today. As we move through the weekend, whether at home or at work, please remember that God is with you and take refuge in that reality. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
11.20.09
“The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
--Psalm 46:11
This is a verse that everyone should ponder.
People of faith who claim to follow the teachings of the world’s monotheistic religions embrace this as a true and trustworthy statement. This brief sentence speaks volumes about God who has created this vast universe, challenging us to remember the big picture, “God is with us” in this wonderful world. This brief sentence suggests that we can find safety (refuge) in, with, and through this omnipresent God.
Conflict is rampant. From the internal conflict we experience in our own being to the conflicts of the international political arena, we can feel like there is no shelter. However, the Psalm writer concludes with this resounding statement of faith, claiming that there is a place to find safety, there is a place for refuge.
Many of us will conclude a week of hard work today. As we move through the weekend, whether at home or at work, please remember that God is with you and take refuge in that reality. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
11.20.09
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 19
Responses from Our Souls
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
--Psalm 46: 10
“Be still!” we are told. How can we be still?
● There are leaves to rake and very little daylight left when we get home from work.
● There are only 35 more days until Christmas.
● Fall sports are winding down and winter sports are bouncing into our schedules.
● There are extra programs during the holidays and programs mean rehearsals!
● And then there are all the unexpected things beyond this list.
“Be still!” we are told.
● Claiming some centering time each day is a healthy discipline, maybe Islamic prayer disciplines could help us be still.
● Changing the rhythms of our day could be helpful. It is definitely something to contemplate.
● Learning from master teachers can guide us as we seek personal stillness. Henri Nouwen writes in Making All Things New, “We often use the outer distractions to shield ourselves from the interior noises. The confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure.”
“Be still!” we are told.
● May your day have enough time for you to practice stillness!
● May the stillness be so enjoyable that it becomes a discipline for you.
Prayer: “Guide me to a quiet place, O God. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.19.09
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
--Psalm 46: 10
“Be still!” we are told. How can we be still?
● There are leaves to rake and very little daylight left when we get home from work.
● There are only 35 more days until Christmas.
● Fall sports are winding down and winter sports are bouncing into our schedules.
● There are extra programs during the holidays and programs mean rehearsals!
● And then there are all the unexpected things beyond this list.
“Be still!” we are told.
● Claiming some centering time each day is a healthy discipline, maybe Islamic prayer disciplines could help us be still.
● Changing the rhythms of our day could be helpful. It is definitely something to contemplate.
● Learning from master teachers can guide us as we seek personal stillness. Henri Nouwen writes in Making All Things New, “We often use the outer distractions to shield ourselves from the interior noises. The confrontation with our inner conflicts can be too painful for us to endure.”
“Be still!” we are told.
● May your day have enough time for you to practice stillness!
● May the stillness be so enjoyable that it becomes a discipline for you.
Prayer: “Guide me to a quiet place, O God. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.19.09
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 18
Responses from Our Souls
People of God from all the major religions believe that God is with them. How should we practice our faith these days? A response from the soul seems most appropriate.
● Soul language is felt and seldom exposed in rhetoric.
● Soul language is noteworthy, maybe not newsworthy.
● Soul language is simple stillness before God, it needs no words to communicate.
● Soul language is about transformation of our hearts, not the heart of another.
● Soul language is all about taking refuge, allowing the spirit of God to work.
● Soul language is taking time to lament the selfishness, greed and power around us.
● Soul language is taking time to be thankful to God who is still in love with the world.
Many things around us can seem chaotic today. Rather than listening to the chaos, let’s take the time to practice quietness in our souls today.
--Ben Keckler
11.18.09
People of God from all the major religions believe that God is with them. How should we practice our faith these days? A response from the soul seems most appropriate.
● Soul language is felt and seldom exposed in rhetoric.
● Soul language is noteworthy, maybe not newsworthy.
● Soul language is simple stillness before God, it needs no words to communicate.
● Soul language is about transformation of our hearts, not the heart of another.
● Soul language is all about taking refuge, allowing the spirit of God to work.
● Soul language is taking time to lament the selfishness, greed and power around us.
● Soul language is taking time to be thankful to God who is still in love with the world.
Many things around us can seem chaotic today. Rather than listening to the chaos, let’s take the time to practice quietness in our souls today.
--Ben Keckler
11.18.09
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 17
Responses from Our Souls
“Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change…”
--An Ancient Hymn
The rhythm of life is always one of change. Taking time to live fully in each moment is so very important. Living each moment without fear is healthy and difficult. Often we rush through the change, filled with fear because our journey isn’t what we were anticipating. Listen to this excerpt from Nicholas Wolterstorff in his Lament for a Son:
“…. please: don’t say it’s not really so bad. Because it is.
Death is awful, demonic.
If you think your task as comforter is to tell me that really, all things considered,
It’s not so bad, you do not sit with me in my grief but place yourself off in the distance from me.
Over there, you are of no help.
What I need to hear from you is that you recognize how painful it is.
I need to hear from you that you are with me in my desperation.
To comfort me, you have to come close. Come sit beside me on my mourning bench.”
Today is a day to live the change that we experience. In fact, today is a good day to sit beside another on a mourning bench.
--Ben Keckler
11.17.09
“Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change…”
--An Ancient Hymn
The rhythm of life is always one of change. Taking time to live fully in each moment is so very important. Living each moment without fear is healthy and difficult. Often we rush through the change, filled with fear because our journey isn’t what we were anticipating. Listen to this excerpt from Nicholas Wolterstorff in his Lament for a Son:
“…. please: don’t say it’s not really so bad. Because it is.
Death is awful, demonic.
If you think your task as comforter is to tell me that really, all things considered,
It’s not so bad, you do not sit with me in my grief but place yourself off in the distance from me.
Over there, you are of no help.
What I need to hear from you is that you recognize how painful it is.
I need to hear from you that you are with me in my desperation.
To comfort me, you have to come close. Come sit beside me on my mourning bench.”
Today is a day to live the change that we experience. In fact, today is a good day to sit beside another on a mourning bench.
--Ben Keckler
11.17.09
Monday, November 16, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 16
Something to Ponder
“Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”
--An Ancient Hymn
A lot of stuff comes our way and we feel that the steadfast love of God is missing. Trusting in God’s steadfast love is not all that easy. It sounds like the writer (see above) is experiencing the difficulty of trust.
Have you ever been in a group that is working on trust exercises? One activity that facilitators sometimes use is called “Trust Fall”. Here is how it works: One person stands facing away from the rest of the group. The assignment is to fall backwards into the arms of another person or persons in the group. Many people have great difficulty with this exercise. In Mitch Albom’s book, Tuesdays with Morrie, he tells of a time when Morrie asked his class to attempt this exercise. Years later Mitch still remembered when one person was able to trust and fall backwards. The person was caught and kept safe. Morrie, Mitch’s professor, observed:
“You see, you closed your eyes. That was the difference. Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too—even when you’re in the dark. Even when you are falling.” (Page 61)
--Ben Keckler
11.16.09
“Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”
--An Ancient Hymn
A lot of stuff comes our way and we feel that the steadfast love of God is missing. Trusting in God’s steadfast love is not all that easy. It sounds like the writer (see above) is experiencing the difficulty of trust.
Have you ever been in a group that is working on trust exercises? One activity that facilitators sometimes use is called “Trust Fall”. Here is how it works: One person stands facing away from the rest of the group. The assignment is to fall backwards into the arms of another person or persons in the group. Many people have great difficulty with this exercise. In Mitch Albom’s book, Tuesdays with Morrie, he tells of a time when Morrie asked his class to attempt this exercise. Years later Mitch still remembered when one person was able to trust and fall backwards. The person was caught and kept safe. Morrie, Mitch’s professor, observed:
“You see, you closed your eyes. That was the difference. Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too—even when you’re in the dark. Even when you are falling.” (Page 61)
--Ben Keckler
11.16.09
Friday, November 13, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 13
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. We conclude this week’s devotions with a prayer from the heart of Daniel J. McGill:
“May God bless us not with clean air alone,
but the will to keep our air clean.
May God bless us not with a vision of a healthy planet alone,
but the will to do all in our power to restore and maintain our planet’s health.
May God bless us not with a change of heart in the great world leaders alone to save our planet,
but with a change in our own heart to use our own power to save the planet.
May the blessings of God not bring to us saints alone,
but make of us saints greater than any we imagine.”
NOTE: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
--Ben Keckler
11.13.09
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we are taking a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. We conclude this week’s devotions with a prayer from the heart of Daniel J. McGill:
“May God bless us not with clean air alone,
but the will to keep our air clean.
May God bless us not with a vision of a healthy planet alone,
but the will to do all in our power to restore and maintain our planet’s health.
May God bless us not with a change of heart in the great world leaders alone to save our planet,
but with a change in our own heart to use our own power to save the planet.
May the blessings of God not bring to us saints alone,
but make of us saints greater than any we imagine.”
NOTE: The prayers for this week’s devotions are from a collection of blessings, poems and meditations from around the world entitled, Prayers for Healing.
--Ben Keckler
11.13.09
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 12
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of British poet, Denise Levertov:
“As swimmers dare
To lie face to the sky
And water bears them,
“As hawks rest upon air
And air sustains them,
“So would I learn to attain
Freefall, and float
Into Creator Spirit’s deep embrace,
Knowing no effort earns
That all-surrounding grace.”
--Ben Keckler
11.12.09
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of British poet, Denise Levertov:
“As swimmers dare
To lie face to the sky
And water bears them,
“As hawks rest upon air
And air sustains them,
“So would I learn to attain
Freefall, and float
Into Creator Spirit’s deep embrace,
Knowing no effort earns
That all-surrounding grace.”
--Ben Keckler
11.12.09
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 11
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Arlene E. Swanson:
“God,
You who created our bodies and our minds,
I come to you now, trusting your healing presence.
It is you who fashioned our organs, bones, tissues and cells
To work together in harmony for you’re eternal purpose.
There is no disorder in you and your pattern for us is perfect.
“I confess that I we have misused the earth and this misuse impacts out bodies.
I confess that I/we misuse our emotions, minds and spirits
And this misuse brings pain and disruption to our lives.
Forgive me/us now for our wrongful use of your gifts.
Restore us by Your love to full harmony with Your perfect plan.
“I/We know dis-ease is not your will for us.
Your love is unconditional. Yet pain is our teacher.
Open me/us to listen that we may again align ourselves with you.
Where we are unable to restore the earth to its perfection,
When we are unable to root out our mistakes of body and mind,
Nevertheless, be kind to us. Count our fumbling efforts as sufficient.
“Restore us now to full health, according to your desire for us.
Bring harmony to our lives, to body mind and spirit.
We thank you now, trusting your love to bring our healing.”
--Ben Keckler
11.11.09
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Arlene E. Swanson:
“God,
You who created our bodies and our minds,
I come to you now, trusting your healing presence.
It is you who fashioned our organs, bones, tissues and cells
To work together in harmony for you’re eternal purpose.
There is no disorder in you and your pattern for us is perfect.
“I confess that I we have misused the earth and this misuse impacts out bodies.
I confess that I/we misuse our emotions, minds and spirits
And this misuse brings pain and disruption to our lives.
Forgive me/us now for our wrongful use of your gifts.
Restore us by Your love to full harmony with Your perfect plan.
“I/We know dis-ease is not your will for us.
Your love is unconditional. Yet pain is our teacher.
Open me/us to listen that we may again align ourselves with you.
Where we are unable to restore the earth to its perfection,
When we are unable to root out our mistakes of body and mind,
Nevertheless, be kind to us. Count our fumbling efforts as sufficient.
“Restore us now to full health, according to your desire for us.
Bring harmony to our lives, to body mind and spirit.
We thank you now, trusting your love to bring our healing.”
--Ben Keckler
11.11.09
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 10
Prayers from thankful people
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Gail Brook Burket:
“I do not ask to walk smooth paths or bear an easy load.
I pray for strength and fortitude to climb the rock-strewn road.
Give me such courage and I can scale the headiest peaks alone,
And transform every stumbling block into a stepping stone.”
--Ben Keckler
11.10.09
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of Gail Brook Burket:
“I do not ask to walk smooth paths or bear an easy load.
I pray for strength and fortitude to climb the rock-strewn road.
Give me such courage and I can scale the headiest peaks alone,
And transform every stumbling block into a stepping stone.”
--Ben Keckler
11.10.09
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 9
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the Sioux Native Americans:
“I come before you as one of your many children.
See, I am small and weak; I need your strength and wisdom.
Grant me to walk in beauty and that my eyes may ever behold the crimson sunset.
May my hands treat with respect the things which you have created, may my ears hear your voice.
Make me wise, that I may understand the things, which you have taught my people,
which you have hidden in every leaf and every rock.
I long for strength, not in order that I may overreach my brother
but to fight my greatest enemy—
myself.
Make me ever ready to come to you with pure hands and candid eyes,
So that my spirit, when life disappears like the setting sun,
May stand unashamed before you.”
--Ben Keckler
11.09.09
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85: 12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the Sioux Native Americans:
“I come before you as one of your many children.
See, I am small and weak; I need your strength and wisdom.
Grant me to walk in beauty and that my eyes may ever behold the crimson sunset.
May my hands treat with respect the things which you have created, may my ears hear your voice.
Make me wise, that I may understand the things, which you have taught my people,
which you have hidden in every leaf and every rock.
I long for strength, not in order that I may overreach my brother
but to fight my greatest enemy—
myself.
Make me ever ready to come to you with pure hands and candid eyes,
So that my spirit, when life disappears like the setting sun,
May stand unashamed before you.”
--Ben Keckler
11.09.09
Friday, November 6, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 6
23rd Psalm Meditations
The closing verse of the Psalm says, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Two quotes for our final devotion on the Psalm 23:
1. Attributed to Levi Yitzhak of Beditchev
“Lord of the universe, I do not beg you to reveal to me
the secret of your ways, for who am I to know them?
But show me one thing,
show it to me more clearly and more deeply,
show me what this which is happening
at this very moment means to me,
what it demands of me,
what you, Lord of the world,
are telling me by way of it.
Dear God, I do not ask you to take away my suffering;
I don’t even want to know why I suffer;
But only this, my God;
Do I suffer for your sake?”
2. Attributed to Julian of Norwich
“God did not say,
‘Thou shall not be tempted,
Thou shall not be travailed,
Thou shall not be diseased.’
But God did say,
‘Thou shall not be overcome.’”
May goodness and mercy follow you throughout the day and the entire weekend.
--Ben Keckler
11.06.09
The closing verse of the Psalm says, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Two quotes for our final devotion on the Psalm 23:
1. Attributed to Levi Yitzhak of Beditchev
“Lord of the universe, I do not beg you to reveal to me
the secret of your ways, for who am I to know them?
But show me one thing,
show it to me more clearly and more deeply,
show me what this which is happening
at this very moment means to me,
what it demands of me,
what you, Lord of the world,
are telling me by way of it.
Dear God, I do not ask you to take away my suffering;
I don’t even want to know why I suffer;
But only this, my God;
Do I suffer for your sake?”
2. Attributed to Julian of Norwich
“God did not say,
‘Thou shall not be tempted,
Thou shall not be travailed,
Thou shall not be diseased.’
But God did say,
‘Thou shall not be overcome.’”
May goodness and mercy follow you throughout the day and the entire weekend.
--Ben Keckler
11.06.09
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 5
23rd Psalm Meditations
Yesterday we talked about relying on God’s guidance to lead us through the valleys of deep darkness. Today we are presented with a trio of statements about the shepherd’s caregiving. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup runs over.” Let’s approach this trio in two ways today.
First, receive these statements as gifts that flow to you, the created, from your creator.
Then, think about the ways that you have to prepare tables in the presence of enemies (sickness, illness, disease); the ways you anoint people with healing oils (like medications, lotions, dressings, their meal at bedside); the ways you can fill people’s lives to overflowing (like gifts of gentleness, kindness and goodness).
As people dedicated to quality caregiving, let us continue to display the words of the Psalmist in our words and our work. May the grace of God flow through you today.
A Prayer attributed to Thomas A Kempis: “Make that possible to me, O Lord, by grace which appears impossible to me by nature. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.05.09
Yesterday we talked about relying on God’s guidance to lead us through the valleys of deep darkness. Today we are presented with a trio of statements about the shepherd’s caregiving. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup runs over.” Let’s approach this trio in two ways today.
First, receive these statements as gifts that flow to you, the created, from your creator.
Then, think about the ways that you have to prepare tables in the presence of enemies (sickness, illness, disease); the ways you anoint people with healing oils (like medications, lotions, dressings, their meal at bedside); the ways you can fill people’s lives to overflowing (like gifts of gentleness, kindness and goodness).
As people dedicated to quality caregiving, let us continue to display the words of the Psalmist in our words and our work. May the grace of God flow through you today.
A Prayer attributed to Thomas A Kempis: “Make that possible to me, O Lord, by grace which appears impossible to me by nature. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.05.09
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 4
23rd Psalm Meditations
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, depression, suicidal ideation—are a few of those valleys.
When we are traveling though a valley of deep darkness we can be just like an easily frightened lamb, we can feel very vulnerable. It is comforting to know that when we are traveling in these difficult places that our Creator is present with rod and staff to guide us through. 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 better day today. 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.
A Prayer attributed to Marcarius the Great: “Lord, help! Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.04.09
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, depression, suicidal ideation—are a few of those valleys.
When we are traveling though a valley of deep darkness we can be just like an easily frightened lamb, we can feel very vulnerable. It is comforting to know that when we are traveling in these difficult places that our Creator is present with rod and staff to guide us through. 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 better day today. 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.
A Prayer attributed to Marcarius the Great: “Lord, help! Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.04.09
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 3
23rd Psalm Meditations
Its only Tuesday morning and already we may be longing to experience the soothing words of Psalm 23. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.” There are still many more hours in the week and the demands on each of us will be great.
As this autumn season unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket and lie down surrounded by green grass and lingering hues in the trees. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing and making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored, don’t we?
The author of this song 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.” There are still many more hours this week. Listen closely and 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. May You live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.03.09
Its only Tuesday morning and already we may be longing to experience the soothing words of Psalm 23. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.” There are still many more hours in the week and the demands on each of us will be great.
As this autumn season unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket and lie down surrounded by green grass and lingering hues in the trees. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing and making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored, don’t we?
The author of this song 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.” There are still many more hours this week. Listen closely and 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. May You live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
11.03.09
Monday, November 2, 2009
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 2
23rd Psalm Meditations
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; they need to be encouraged. No one knows this better than the person who cares for sheep. This week’s Psalm is known as a Shepherd’s Psalm. It begins with the writer confessing his own likeness to sheep. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that my sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
Imagine a shepherd and his flock of sheep on the barren, rocky and dry countryside. It wouldn’t take long for a grassland to disappear with a flock of sheep. The life of the shepherd is a life of constant movement, searching for a place where grass and water can nurture his animals. It seems this could be quite difficult. Yet, the writer says with confidence in his great shepherd, “I shall not want.”
There are many things that can lead us away from primary causes of illness, let us rejoice that God is present to guide us. Have a blessed week, listening to the guiding voice within.
A Prayer attributed to Martin Luther: “Lord, misery and misfortune oppress me. I long to be rid of them. You have said, “ask and it will be given you.” So I come and ask. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
11.02.09
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; they need to be encouraged. No one knows this better than the person who cares for sheep. This week’s Psalm is known as a Shepherd’s Psalm. It begins with the writer confessing his own likeness to sheep. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that my sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
Imagine a shepherd and his flock of sheep on the barren, rocky and dry countryside. It wouldn’t take long for a grassland to disappear with a flock of sheep. The life of the shepherd is a life of constant movement, searching for a place where grass and water can nurture his animals. It seems this could be quite difficult. Yet, the writer says with confidence in his great shepherd, “I shall not want.”
There are many things that can lead us away from primary causes of illness, let us rejoice that God is present to guide us. Have a blessed week, listening to the guiding voice within.
A Prayer attributed to Martin Luther: “Lord, misery and misfortune oppress me. I long to be rid of them. You have said, “ask and it will be given you.” So I come and ask. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
11.02.09
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