Closing Out Another Year
“Looking Back and Looking Forward”
As the year of 2010 ends, I share this prayer of thanksgiving and benediction. The rhythms of the year have varied for each of us; still we continue to move forward, sharing our gifts with one another and with others.
Holy God,
As we reflect we realize that your steadfast love has empowered us
and that your peace has comforted us.
We praise you for the mysteries of life and trust
in your infinite wisdom.
We praise you for the order and constancy of nature.
We thank you for the comforts and joys we experience.
We thank you especially for home, friends and family.
We thank you for the gifts you give us and
we thank you for the love, sympathy, prayers and support
that sustain us.
For the year of 2010, we thank you.
For the year of 2011, we ask for your light and hope
to guide us in the way of peace.
A benediction for the year:
And now to the One who is able to keep us from falling
And lift us from the dark valley of despair
to the bright mountain of hope,
From the midnight of desperation to the daybreak of joy;
To God be power and authority forever and ever. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.31.10
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 30
Closing Out Another Year
“Looking Back and Looking Forward”
The year of 2010 is coming to a close and I want to share a couple of prayers with you before we arrive at New Year’s Eve day.
Holy God,
We offer you thanks and praise
for all the surprising graces which have come to us,
for those that sustain our lives and those that change them.
--for food, familiar diets and startling new aromas and tastes;
--for homes, places of steady surroundings and settings for redemptive love;
--for friendships, old friends who are willingly open in their affection and correction,
and new friends who remind us that your spirited presence
still dwells with us and others;
--for tasks to perform, routine actions which we do well,
and which give order to our days;
--for tasks at which we have failed and discovered a restored and needed humility;
--for all your gifts that empower us and others to live the faith-filled life.
Great and mighty God we praise your name today.
Bring your peace among us now we humbly pray. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.30.10
“Looking Back and Looking Forward”
The year of 2010 is coming to a close and I want to share a couple of prayers with you before we arrive at New Year’s Eve day.
Holy God,
We offer you thanks and praise
for all the surprising graces which have come to us,
for those that sustain our lives and those that change them.
--for food, familiar diets and startling new aromas and tastes;
--for homes, places of steady surroundings and settings for redemptive love;
--for friendships, old friends who are willingly open in their affection and correction,
and new friends who remind us that your spirited presence
still dwells with us and others;
--for tasks to perform, routine actions which we do well,
and which give order to our days;
--for tasks at which we have failed and discovered a restored and needed humility;
--for all your gifts that empower us and others to live the faith-filled life.
Great and mighty God we praise your name today.
Bring your peace among us now we humbly pray. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.30.10
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 29
Winding Down, Looking Forward
The old year causes us to reflect and the promise of a New Year
calls us to keep growing. Here is a favorite prayer:
O God,
I am learning the subtle difference
between holding a hand
and chaining a soul.
I am learning that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't mean security.
And I'm beginning to learn that kisses aren't compromises
and presents aren't promises....
Beginning to accept my defeats with my head up
and my eyes fixed forward
with the grace of a woman or a man, not the grief of a child.
I am learning to build all my life on today
because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of collapsing in midflight.
I feel like I am learning to plant my own garden
and decorate my own soul
rather than waiting on someone to buy me flowers.
Continue to teach me that I can endure
that I am strong
and that I do have worth.
Keep me learning. And keep me learning
Yes, keep me learning... and remembering
that with every failure I can learn even more!
--Ben Keckler
12.29.10
The old year causes us to reflect and the promise of a New Year
calls us to keep growing. Here is a favorite prayer:
O God,
I am learning the subtle difference
between holding a hand
and chaining a soul.
I am learning that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't mean security.
And I'm beginning to learn that kisses aren't compromises
and presents aren't promises....
Beginning to accept my defeats with my head up
and my eyes fixed forward
with the grace of a woman or a man, not the grief of a child.
I am learning to build all my life on today
because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of collapsing in midflight.
I feel like I am learning to plant my own garden
and decorate my own soul
rather than waiting on someone to buy me flowers.
Continue to teach me that I can endure
that I am strong
and that I do have worth.
Keep me learning. And keep me learning
Yes, keep me learning... and remembering
that with every failure I can learn even more!
--Ben Keckler
12.29.10
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 28
God’s Law
“Happy are those who delight in the law of the Lord
and on God’s law they meditate day and night.” --Psalm 1:2
When we stop to embrace the “law of the Lord”, we are making a choice that leads to positive surroundings in the midst of life’s storms. When we meditate on the law of unconditional love, we discover an infusion of hope that makes life’s uncertainties bearable.
God’s hope pours into your world. Upon the sick God shines the ray of healing. To the bereaved, the promise of reunion is given. For the dying, God lights the flame of resurrections. To the confused, the light of Scripture is offered.
As 2010 draws to an end, realize that through your caregiving/work some rays of the eternal did shine. If you have the coming weekend off, meditate on ways you receive God’s unconditional love and HOPE will fill your world. If you are working for the New Year's weekend, remember you have an opportunity to demonstrate that God’s everlasting love is always near, thereby filling others with HOPE.
A prayer: In my work and in my leisure, may I delight in your way, O God. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.28.10
“Happy are those who delight in the law of the Lord
and on God’s law they meditate day and night.” --Psalm 1:2
When we stop to embrace the “law of the Lord”, we are making a choice that leads to positive surroundings in the midst of life’s storms. When we meditate on the law of unconditional love, we discover an infusion of hope that makes life’s uncertainties bearable.
God’s hope pours into your world. Upon the sick God shines the ray of healing. To the bereaved, the promise of reunion is given. For the dying, God lights the flame of resurrections. To the confused, the light of Scripture is offered.
As 2010 draws to an end, realize that through your caregiving/work some rays of the eternal did shine. If you have the coming weekend off, meditate on ways you receive God’s unconditional love and HOPE will fill your world. If you are working for the New Year's weekend, remember you have an opportunity to demonstrate that God’s everlasting love is always near, thereby filling others with HOPE.
A prayer: In my work and in my leisure, may I delight in your way, O God. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.28.10
Monday, December 27, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 27
“The Days After Christmas”
Keeping Things in Perspective
‘Twas the days after Christmas
And all through the house
There were patients and families—
Some children, some a spouse.
They’d come to the hospital to visit or stay
Because some illness had come their family’s way.
There were others in the house by some sort of quirk
Some housekeepers, some nurses, other caregivers — they came to work.
They were there after the holiday that rings out Christmas cheer
Some traveled a distance, some resided near
This place where healing, compassion and caring are real —
People working together to help the hurting feel
A sense of relief from their aches and their pain
Helping the ailing their strength to regain.
All these folks assembled in one special little spot
Not real significant, only a global village dot --
Not unlike that stable long ago
This hospital family will continue to grow
And live in the spirit that helps the hurting to know
That even in pain there are those who care
And are willing to help other’s burdens to bear.
On these days after Christmas
And all through this house
May the spirit of the holiday
Be shown through your life in your own special way.
--Ben Keckler
12.27.10
Keeping Things in Perspective
‘Twas the days after Christmas
And all through the house
There were patients and families—
Some children, some a spouse.
They’d come to the hospital to visit or stay
Because some illness had come their family’s way.
There were others in the house by some sort of quirk
Some housekeepers, some nurses, other caregivers — they came to work.
They were there after the holiday that rings out Christmas cheer
Some traveled a distance, some resided near
This place where healing, compassion and caring are real —
People working together to help the hurting feel
A sense of relief from their aches and their pain
Helping the ailing their strength to regain.
All these folks assembled in one special little spot
Not real significant, only a global village dot --
Not unlike that stable long ago
This hospital family will continue to grow
And live in the spirit that helps the hurting to know
That even in pain there are those who care
And are willing to help other’s burdens to bear.
On these days after Christmas
And all through this house
May the spirit of the holiday
Be shown through your life in your own special way.
--Ben Keckler
12.27.10
Friday, December 24, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 24
Remembering the Marginalized
“God’s mercy is for those who fear the Lord
from generation to generation.”
--From St. Luke’s story of faith
Take some time to read Luke 1: 26-56 for your devotional life today, tomorrow and Sunday. The story is pretty powerful and, with some heart probing meditation, has the potential to bring new perspectives to the journey.
A prayer: God, your mystery is beyond comprehension. Be near your world and bring us peace.
--Ben Keckler
12.24.10
“God’s mercy is for those who fear the Lord
from generation to generation.”
--From St. Luke’s story of faith
Take some time to read Luke 1: 26-56 for your devotional life today, tomorrow and Sunday. The story is pretty powerful and, with some heart probing meditation, has the potential to bring new perspectives to the journey.
A prayer: God, your mystery is beyond comprehension. Be near your world and bring us peace.
--Ben Keckler
12.24.10
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 23
Remembering the Marginalized
“Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.”
--An ancient heart song that is still true today
Many of us will be gathering with family and friends and spending some special time together this week. Most of us will smile as eager children rip through carefully wrapped packages to see what new thing is inside. Some of us will have a more relaxed time of casual merriment. Most of us will spend a holiday with folks we love. Some of us will find that our place of employment is the place to be.
We look at the above verse of Scripture today because it is also important to have a heightened sensitivity to the patient population in our hospital this week. We WILL have a patient population on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Some will be too sick to really care about the holiday. Some will be recovering and may have the very wishes that the Psalm writer had. Some will be wondering what word they are going to hear. It is important to be sensitive to the cry of the hurting. May your day of caregiving find you demonstrating increased sensitivity to the lonely and afflicted who are seeking Holy grace to come their way.
A prayer: Holy One, grace me with a measure of compassion to touch the lonely and afflicted.
--Ben Keckler
12.23.10
“Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.”
--An ancient heart song that is still true today
Many of us will be gathering with family and friends and spending some special time together this week. Most of us will smile as eager children rip through carefully wrapped packages to see what new thing is inside. Some of us will have a more relaxed time of casual merriment. Most of us will spend a holiday with folks we love. Some of us will find that our place of employment is the place to be.
We look at the above verse of Scripture today because it is also important to have a heightened sensitivity to the patient population in our hospital this week. We WILL have a patient population on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Some will be too sick to really care about the holiday. Some will be recovering and may have the very wishes that the Psalm writer had. Some will be wondering what word they are going to hear. It is important to be sensitive to the cry of the hurting. May your day of caregiving find you demonstrating increased sensitivity to the lonely and afflicted who are seeking Holy grace to come their way.
A prayer: Holy One, grace me with a measure of compassion to touch the lonely and afflicted.
--Ben Keckler
12.23.10
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 22
Remembering the Marginalized
“For God so loved that God gave….”
--From the Apostle John’s faith story (3:16)
Life is filled with things that just don’t make sense. This holy season of the year has the potential to remind all of us that no one is exempt from being marginalized. The feeling of being “left out in the cold” can hit anyone, even when it is least expected.
• The folks in Louisiana and Mississippi are definitely still experiencing marginalization beyond anything they imagined, not even the magic of a Super Bowl victory has made living conditions what they need to be.
• Little children who are making the first time discovery that “Santa” has different looks than they imagined.
• People feeling disillusioned because life as they understood it is not how life really is. The economic chaos, along with so many other discouraging factors, is at best confusing and disturbing.
The news of the season is that the Creator identifies more with the marginalized than with the comfortable. Wanting to understand the Divine? I suggest learning from and living with the marginalized is the way to do it. According to St. John, that is what God chose.
A prayer: God of life, thank you for choosing to live in the margins. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.22.10
“For God so loved that God gave….”
--From the Apostle John’s faith story (3:16)
Life is filled with things that just don’t make sense. This holy season of the year has the potential to remind all of us that no one is exempt from being marginalized. The feeling of being “left out in the cold” can hit anyone, even when it is least expected.
• The folks in Louisiana and Mississippi are definitely still experiencing marginalization beyond anything they imagined, not even the magic of a Super Bowl victory has made living conditions what they need to be.
• Little children who are making the first time discovery that “Santa” has different looks than they imagined.
• People feeling disillusioned because life as they understood it is not how life really is. The economic chaos, along with so many other discouraging factors, is at best confusing and disturbing.
The news of the season is that the Creator identifies more with the marginalized than with the comfortable. Wanting to understand the Divine? I suggest learning from and living with the marginalized is the way to do it. According to St. John, that is what God chose.
A prayer: God of life, thank you for choosing to live in the margins. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.22.10
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 21
Remembering the Marginalized
“You who live in the shelter of the Most High,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God, in whom I trust.’” --Psalm 91:1
If you haven’t heard of Matthew J. T. Stepanek, you need to be introduced. He is a courageous young man. Mattie died about 5 years ago. I want to share a small gift with you, some words this young poet left for us to treasure. First, a few things about this wonderful young man:
• He had a rare form of muscular dystrophy and learned much from his handicap.
• He was wise beyond his years and probably would have preferred being called “handicapable”.
• Starting at age 3 he began composing poetic pieces that touch the heart.
• If you are still looking for Christmas presents, you might want to purchase one of the books. You will not be disappointed.
• Mattie obviously struggled with some difficult things in his life and emerged as a person who embraced today’s key verse. Here is an excerpt from his introduction to his book, Hope through Heartsongs.
“It would be easy for each of us to stay shocked, angry, hurt, or sad
with all the difficult things we face in life.
And even though it is difficult and sometimes
almost overwhelming to examine feelings related to
loss and loneliness and alarming turmoil,
it is the only way we can grow, individually and together.
We cannot let sad or traumatic events, or even acts of terror,
be the death of hope.
In spite of each struggle, we can and will find hope
if we choose to do so.”
Have a blessed day and remember the marginalized during this season.
A prayer: God of this world, help us to see that the hopes and fears of all the years are met as we encounter your presence within. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.21.10
“You who live in the shelter of the Most High,
who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress;
my God, in whom I trust.’” --Psalm 91:1
If you haven’t heard of Matthew J. T. Stepanek, you need to be introduced. He is a courageous young man. Mattie died about 5 years ago. I want to share a small gift with you, some words this young poet left for us to treasure. First, a few things about this wonderful young man:
• He had a rare form of muscular dystrophy and learned much from his handicap.
• He was wise beyond his years and probably would have preferred being called “handicapable”.
• Starting at age 3 he began composing poetic pieces that touch the heart.
• If you are still looking for Christmas presents, you might want to purchase one of the books. You will not be disappointed.
• Mattie obviously struggled with some difficult things in his life and emerged as a person who embraced today’s key verse. Here is an excerpt from his introduction to his book, Hope through Heartsongs.
“It would be easy for each of us to stay shocked, angry, hurt, or sad
with all the difficult things we face in life.
And even though it is difficult and sometimes
almost overwhelming to examine feelings related to
loss and loneliness and alarming turmoil,
it is the only way we can grow, individually and together.
We cannot let sad or traumatic events, or even acts of terror,
be the death of hope.
In spite of each struggle, we can and will find hope
if we choose to do so.”
Have a blessed day and remember the marginalized during this season.
A prayer: God of this world, help us to see that the hopes and fears of all the years are met as we encounter your presence within. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.21.10
Monday, December 20, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 20
Remembering the Marginalized
“Come and see what God has done:
God is awesome in his deeds among mortals.”
--Psalm 66:5
A large portion of my chaplaincy work focuses on being present with grieving people. While most of us are making merriment and thinking about gift giving, the walking wounded griever is trying to make their way through the holidays. They realize that people don’t “get over” their grieving. They are courageously working “through” their pain. If you could see what I’ve seen, if you could hear what I’ve heard, you would find that God is still doing some very great and wonderful things.
For me, this holiday season comes to remind us that God is truly united with creation. God is performing mighty things in the lives of broken people, the people on the margins. God continues to bring the gift of peace. Yes, we can look back to a historic event like Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. But, we can also “come and see” what strength is coming to the souls of people working through their tough, tough times. May you have enough, enough of what you need to find peace and live peacefully.
A prayer: Holy God, be near me today and always I pray. Amen.
Ben Keckler
12.20.10
“Come and see what God has done:
God is awesome in his deeds among mortals.”
--Psalm 66:5
A large portion of my chaplaincy work focuses on being present with grieving people. While most of us are making merriment and thinking about gift giving, the walking wounded griever is trying to make their way through the holidays. They realize that people don’t “get over” their grieving. They are courageously working “through” their pain. If you could see what I’ve seen, if you could hear what I’ve heard, you would find that God is still doing some very great and wonderful things.
For me, this holiday season comes to remind us that God is truly united with creation. God is performing mighty things in the lives of broken people, the people on the margins. God continues to bring the gift of peace. Yes, we can look back to a historic event like Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. But, we can also “come and see” what strength is coming to the souls of people working through their tough, tough times. May you have enough, enough of what you need to find peace and live peacefully.
A prayer: Holy God, be near me today and always I pray. Amen.
Ben Keckler
12.20.10
Friday, December 17, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 17
‘Tis the Season: God with Us
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Friday: A Prayer
Loving God,
We thank you
That you keep coming into our lives
And that your saving power does make all things new.
We thank you for pouring out your love and revealing us your way
which can be discovered through the stories of Jesus
As well as in the continuing rebirth
that happens in human hearts today.
Help us to embody your love and to make it very visible in this world.
May the joy of Christmas touch the lives of hurting folks today.
And may your kingdom of justice and peace be fully established.
In the name of Jesus, Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.17.10
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Friday: A Prayer
Loving God,
We thank you
That you keep coming into our lives
And that your saving power does make all things new.
We thank you for pouring out your love and revealing us your way
which can be discovered through the stories of Jesus
As well as in the continuing rebirth
that happens in human hearts today.
Help us to embody your love and to make it very visible in this world.
May the joy of Christmas touch the lives of hurting folks today.
And may your kingdom of justice and peace be fully established.
In the name of Jesus, Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.17.10
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 16
‘Tis the Season: God with Us
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Thursday: An attempt at poetry for the season
A little child will lead them the sacred Scriptures say,
So I can’t help but think of children as I write today.
Will a little child hold back tears when they have to be heard?
Why then do I feel that crying is so absurd?
Will a little child, even when mad, get physical and
decide they want to fight?
Why then is warfare and killing a part of the news every night?
If peace is the gift that Creator and Child decided to bring,
Then why is it that the sounds of weapons
throughout the world still ring?
As I prepare my soul for a gift that will lead me
down an uncharted way,
May I open my heart fully and listen for the child teaching me to play?
--Ben Keckler
12.16.10
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Thursday: An attempt at poetry for the season
A little child will lead them the sacred Scriptures say,
So I can’t help but think of children as I write today.
Will a little child hold back tears when they have to be heard?
Why then do I feel that crying is so absurd?
Will a little child, even when mad, get physical and
decide they want to fight?
Why then is warfare and killing a part of the news every night?
If peace is the gift that Creator and Child decided to bring,
Then why is it that the sounds of weapons
throughout the world still ring?
As I prepare my soul for a gift that will lead me
down an uncharted way,
May I open my heart fully and listen for the child teaching me to play?
--Ben Keckler
12.16.10
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 15
‘Tis the Season: God with Us
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Wednesday: Something we tend to not think about
Christians and, for that matter, much of culture around the world is preparing to celebrate Christmas. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday, but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we are meditating on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
Tonight I will be spending time with some of the people who participate in one of the hospital's Bereavement Support Groups. There will be young people and adults who have experienced significant losses in their lives. For some of them the losses came during the last year; for others the losses happened up to ten years ago. For each of them, dealing with the loss is painful and difficult to this very day!
They won’t celebrate this season with the same kind of joy that many have. Their lives are not as complete as they want them to be. Death has left a darkness within that doesn’t diminish with the glimmer of holiday lights. They are longing for compassionate friends who will reach out to them where they are; friends who will take some time to be reverent and silent; friends who will be present with them and the spirit of their loved one.
If you are aware of a grieving, bereaved soul this season, maybe you could take some time to be with them on “their turf”. If you do, you might find out a bit more about the peaceful place that today’s Scripture verse depicts and you may be blessed with a little bit more understanding about the little child who leads us to the realm of peace.
Have a blessed day as you continue your preparation for the holiday.
--Ben Keckler
12.15.10
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Wednesday: Something we tend to not think about
Christians and, for that matter, much of culture around the world is preparing to celebrate Christmas. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday, but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we are meditating on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
Tonight I will be spending time with some of the people who participate in one of the hospital's Bereavement Support Groups. There will be young people and adults who have experienced significant losses in their lives. For some of them the losses came during the last year; for others the losses happened up to ten years ago. For each of them, dealing with the loss is painful and difficult to this very day!
They won’t celebrate this season with the same kind of joy that many have. Their lives are not as complete as they want them to be. Death has left a darkness within that doesn’t diminish with the glimmer of holiday lights. They are longing for compassionate friends who will reach out to them where they are; friends who will take some time to be reverent and silent; friends who will be present with them and the spirit of their loved one.
If you are aware of a grieving, bereaved soul this season, maybe you could take some time to be with them on “their turf”. If you do, you might find out a bit more about the peaceful place that today’s Scripture verse depicts and you may be blessed with a little bit more understanding about the little child who leads us to the realm of peace.
Have a blessed day as you continue your preparation for the holiday.
--Ben Keckler
12.15.10
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 14
‘Tis the Season: God with Us
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Tuesday: Children are beautiful. They believe!
Christians continue to spiritually prepare for Christmas, a holy day. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we are meditating on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
I received this e-mail some time ago; it talks about the simple faith of a child.
“It was the day after Christmas at a church in San Francisco.
The pastor of the church was looking over the cradle when he
noticed that the baby Jesus was missing from among the figures.
Immediately he turned and went outside and saw a little boy
with a red wagon, and in the wagon was the figure of the little
infant, Jesus.
So he walked up to the boy and said, “Well, where did you
get Him, my little friend?”
The little boy replied, “I got him from the church.”
“And why did you take him?” the pastor asked.
The boy said, “Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed
to the little Lord Jesus and I told him if he would bring me
a red wagon for Christmas I would give him a ride around
the block in it!”
Blessings as you continue preparation for the holiday.
--Ben Keckler
12.14.10
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Tuesday: Children are beautiful. They believe!
Christians continue to spiritually prepare for Christmas, a holy day. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we are meditating on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
I received this e-mail some time ago; it talks about the simple faith of a child.
“It was the day after Christmas at a church in San Francisco.
The pastor of the church was looking over the cradle when he
noticed that the baby Jesus was missing from among the figures.
Immediately he turned and went outside and saw a little boy
with a red wagon, and in the wagon was the figure of the little
infant, Jesus.
So he walked up to the boy and said, “Well, where did you
get Him, my little friend?”
The little boy replied, “I got him from the church.”
“And why did you take him?” the pastor asked.
The boy said, “Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed
to the little Lord Jesus and I told him if he would bring me
a red wagon for Christmas I would give him a ride around
the block in it!”
Blessings as you continue preparation for the holiday.
--Ben Keckler
12.14.10
Monday, December 13, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 13
‘Tis the Season: God with Us
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Monday: Letting a Child Lead Us
Christians are continuing in a season of preparation (Advent), journeying toward a special holy day. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we will meditate on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
One of our associates has a married sister who lives a great distance from here. They have an adopted son named Seth whose birthday is earlier this month. Many years ago as a 4 year old there was a conversation that mom and Seth had as mom tried to help son understand the mysterious relationship of Santa, Jesus and Christmas.
Mom: Seth, so you know why we celebrate Christmas?
Seth: Yeah, cause Santa gets me a present and then I get to open the present that Santa brung me.
Mom: But why does Santa bring gifts?
Seth: So I can open them.
Mom: No, Santa brings gifts because we are celebrating someone’s birthday; whose birthday is it?
Seth: I don’t know.
Mom: It’s someone who came from heaven and we celebrate their birthday.
Seth: OHHHH, that’s ME!
I can see that while the Holy One was/is definitely alive in this child, mom probably felt like there’s lots of teaching to do. How about you?
--Ben Keckler
12.13.10
“The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.”
--A prophetic vision of God’s peaceful realm
(Isaiah 11:6)
Monday: Letting a Child Lead Us
Christians are continuing in a season of preparation (Advent), journeying toward a special holy day. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, not because December 25 is his birthday but because it is important to celebrate God’s incarnational presence among us. This week we will meditate on various realities of what it means to feel that God is with us.
One of our associates has a married sister who lives a great distance from here. They have an adopted son named Seth whose birthday is earlier this month. Many years ago as a 4 year old there was a conversation that mom and Seth had as mom tried to help son understand the mysterious relationship of Santa, Jesus and Christmas.
Mom: Seth, so you know why we celebrate Christmas?
Seth: Yeah, cause Santa gets me a present and then I get to open the present that Santa brung me.
Mom: But why does Santa bring gifts?
Seth: So I can open them.
Mom: No, Santa brings gifts because we are celebrating someone’s birthday; whose birthday is it?
Seth: I don’t know.
Mom: It’s someone who came from heaven and we celebrate their birthday.
Seth: OHHHH, that’s ME!
I can see that while the Holy One was/is definitely alive in this child, mom probably felt like there’s lots of teaching to do. How about you?
--Ben Keckler
12.13.10
Friday, December 10, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 10
It Really is All About the Children
The prophet realized that we develop many names for the child that is born. Likewise, we bring many names to this season of the year and each of those names is sacred.
One of the insights from an old Hebrew prophet is that the very essence of God enters into our midst as a child. Sixty-four years ago UNICEF was founded (December 11, 1946) and people around the world joined together to form the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Children are so important. Today, I want to share a final segment of Marian Wright Edelman’s prayer for children. The words can help to keep us focused on the realities of this season:
“O God of beggar, beaten, abused, neglected,
Homeless, AIDS, drug, and hunger-ravaged children,
Of children who are emotionally and physically and mentally fragile,
And of children who rebel and ridicule, torment and taunt,
Help us to love and respect and protect them all.
“O God of children of destiny and of despair, of war and of peace,
Of disfigured, diseased and dying children,
Of children without hope and of children with hope
To spare and to share,
Help us to love and respect and protect them all.”
Have a meaningful day in your work wherever that may be and may your weekend be blessed with everything you need.
--Ben Keckler
12.10.10
The prophet realized that we develop many names for the child that is born. Likewise, we bring many names to this season of the year and each of those names is sacred.
One of the insights from an old Hebrew prophet is that the very essence of God enters into our midst as a child. Sixty-four years ago UNICEF was founded (December 11, 1946) and people around the world joined together to form the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Children are so important. Today, I want to share a final segment of Marian Wright Edelman’s prayer for children. The words can help to keep us focused on the realities of this season:
“O God of beggar, beaten, abused, neglected,
Homeless, AIDS, drug, and hunger-ravaged children,
Of children who are emotionally and physically and mentally fragile,
And of children who rebel and ridicule, torment and taunt,
Help us to love and respect and protect them all.
“O God of children of destiny and of despair, of war and of peace,
Of disfigured, diseased and dying children,
Of children without hope and of children with hope
To spare and to share,
Help us to love and respect and protect them all.”
Have a meaningful day in your work wherever that may be and may your weekend be blessed with everything you need.
--Ben Keckler
12.10.10
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 9
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
We have been examining some of the holy days and/or seasons that make up the rhythm of “the holidays.” There is a common thread in the religious holidays of the world’s religions. Woven throughout the fabric of all religious communities are a couple of significant themes:
● “light (divine light) is visible in the midst of personal darkness.”
● this is a time to focus on all these becoming new.
The language that describes these beliefs is demonstrated in a variety of symbolic ways. For generations people of all faiths have taken great pride in their “stream of faith” that has allowed God to empower their souls.
As co-participants in a global village, the present moment is a good time for us to grow in our understanding and appreciation of the ways each religion expresses their convictions. In the chaplaincy office here at the hospital we have a book entitled “A Hospital Handbook on Multiculturalism and Religion”. In this book are insights about the beliefs and practices of the major religions, as well as discussions about the significance of attitudes, rites, rituals, and dietary observances.
Most who read this devotion will be Western Christians caught up in the busy-ness of our holiday season. Take time to listen to the heartbeat of other faith traditions as you journey through this holiday season. When we do this, God alone will be our rock and another step will be taken to having a global village dwelling together in peace.
--Ben Keckler
12.09.10
We have been examining some of the holy days and/or seasons that make up the rhythm of “the holidays.” There is a common thread in the religious holidays of the world’s religions. Woven throughout the fabric of all religious communities are a couple of significant themes:
● “light (divine light) is visible in the midst of personal darkness.”
● this is a time to focus on all these becoming new.
The language that describes these beliefs is demonstrated in a variety of symbolic ways. For generations people of all faiths have taken great pride in their “stream of faith” that has allowed God to empower their souls.
As co-participants in a global village, the present moment is a good time for us to grow in our understanding and appreciation of the ways each religion expresses their convictions. In the chaplaincy office here at the hospital we have a book entitled “A Hospital Handbook on Multiculturalism and Religion”. In this book are insights about the beliefs and practices of the major religions, as well as discussions about the significance of attitudes, rites, rituals, and dietary observances.
Most who read this devotion will be Western Christians caught up in the busy-ness of our holiday season. Take time to listen to the heartbeat of other faith traditions as you journey through this holiday season. When we do this, God alone will be our rock and another step will be taken to having a global village dwelling together in peace.
--Ben Keckler
12.09.10
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 8
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
We continue our exploration of holidays of some of the world’s major religions. Today we look at Western Christianity.
Western Christianity’s celebrations surrounding Christmas are probably the most festive of all religious holiday celebrations. Even during the season of preparation, commonly known as Advent, Christians are anxious to sing the carols of Christmas. In the United States it is common for all the Christmas traditions from the birth of Christ to Santa and the reindeer to be displayed inside and outside of homes and businesses.
Western Christians, whether in impoverished countries like Nicaragua or in affluent countries like the US and Canada, demonstrate their festive spirits in many ways. Acts of charity increase, social and religious calendars are filled and Christians welcome the gift of Emmanuel with gifts (large or small) given to family and friends.
A prayer: O gift of God revealed among us, shine through our hearts this Christmas. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.08.10
We continue our exploration of holidays of some of the world’s major religions. Today we look at Western Christianity.
Western Christianity’s celebrations surrounding Christmas are probably the most festive of all religious holiday celebrations. Even during the season of preparation, commonly known as Advent, Christians are anxious to sing the carols of Christmas. In the United States it is common for all the Christmas traditions from the birth of Christ to Santa and the reindeer to be displayed inside and outside of homes and businesses.
Western Christians, whether in impoverished countries like Nicaragua or in affluent countries like the US and Canada, demonstrate their festive spirits in many ways. Acts of charity increase, social and religious calendars are filled and Christians welcome the gift of Emmanuel with gifts (large or small) given to family and friends.
A prayer: O gift of God revealed among us, shine through our hearts this Christmas. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.08.10
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 7
A Holy Day in Islamic Tradition
Last week we had some devotions centering on Holy Days of some of the world’s major religions. We continue that exploration this week. Remember that first and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening.
Today we focus on Muharram, an Islamic holiday, that began last night at sundown. Muharram is the holiday celebrating the Islamic New Year. Obviously the Islamic New Year does not coincide with our Western Calendar which has New Year's Day as January 1. The Islamic faith is not the only religion to have a new year's holiday that fails to coincide with the calendar. Did you know that Western Christianity's new year actually begins four Sundays before Christmas (this year that was November 28)?
If you have an Islamic friend, please be aware that this is a holy day for them. Visit the web and learn more about Muharram or take time to learn about this holiday from a Muslim friend.
--Ben Keckler
12.07.10
Last week we had some devotions centering on Holy Days of some of the world’s major religions. We continue that exploration this week. Remember that first and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening.
Today we focus on Muharram, an Islamic holiday, that began last night at sundown. Muharram is the holiday celebrating the Islamic New Year. Obviously the Islamic New Year does not coincide with our Western Calendar which has New Year's Day as January 1. The Islamic faith is not the only religion to have a new year's holiday that fails to coincide with the calendar. Did you know that Western Christianity's new year actually begins four Sundays before Christmas (this year that was November 28)?
If you have an Islamic friend, please be aware that this is a holy day for them. Visit the web and learn more about Muharram or take time to learn about this holiday from a Muslim friend.
--Ben Keckler
12.07.10
Monday, December 6, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 6
A Special, Significant Night
Here in our county, a very small dot in the global village, a number of people are going to be joining together at the Angel of Hope statue. The vigil starts at 7 p.m. It will be cold. There will be a warm feeling of connection among the participants. Each of them will bring a white flower to this special evening. They will be united in spirit.
All these people will be remembering a child they have lost, a child who has died. They are people who think differently about the holidays because they will not be buying a present or presents for someone they loved and still love. While all the world seems to be buzzing with presents and merriment, they are drawn to memories about how their lives were. While the world around them is filled with lights and songs, their world has only the inner glow of songs that used to be sung.
As you experience the rhythms of your day and of this season, please take some time and listen to the heart song of a parent who has to deal with the reality of their child's all-to-sudden departure from this world. Do what you can to make this a special, significant night.
--Ben Keckler
12.06.10
Here in our county, a very small dot in the global village, a number of people are going to be joining together at the Angel of Hope statue. The vigil starts at 7 p.m. It will be cold. There will be a warm feeling of connection among the participants. Each of them will bring a white flower to this special evening. They will be united in spirit.
All these people will be remembering a child they have lost, a child who has died. They are people who think differently about the holidays because they will not be buying a present or presents for someone they loved and still love. While all the world seems to be buzzing with presents and merriment, they are drawn to memories about how their lives were. While the world around them is filled with lights and songs, their world has only the inner glow of songs that used to be sung.
As you experience the rhythms of your day and of this season, please take some time and listen to the heart song of a parent who has to deal with the reality of their child's all-to-sudden departure from this world. Do what you can to make this a special, significant night.
--Ben Keckler
12.06.10
Friday, December 3, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 3
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“I will create new heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered,
nor will they come to mind.”
--Isaiah 65.17
Holiday. A holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this time of the calendar year. Let's conclude this week with another holiday tradition.
During the week from Christmas to New Year’s, there is a festival called Kwanzaa. This celebration is a faith-based observance primarily celebrated by many North Americans of West African descent. A seven-branched candelabrum is used to call the celebrants to focus on important attributes for living life with integrity. The attributes include the following: unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Each day of the festival another candle is lit and participants focus on the meaning of one of these characteristics.
New festivals emerge in culture, often rooted in old traditions. It is important to learn about them and understand their significance. Taking the time to incorporate the unfamiliar with our time-honored traditions, we may very well find a meaning of the text for today. The characteristics examined during Kwanzaa deserve special attention in every person’s life.
If you have friends of West African descent, you may want to take time and learn from them about their “festival of light” known as Kwanzaa.
--Ben Keckler
12.03.10
“I will create new heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered,
nor will they come to mind.”
--Isaiah 65.17
Holiday. A holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this time of the calendar year. Let's conclude this week with another holiday tradition.
During the week from Christmas to New Year’s, there is a festival called Kwanzaa. This celebration is a faith-based observance primarily celebrated by many North Americans of West African descent. A seven-branched candelabrum is used to call the celebrants to focus on important attributes for living life with integrity. The attributes include the following: unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Each day of the festival another candle is lit and participants focus on the meaning of one of these characteristics.
New festivals emerge in culture, often rooted in old traditions. It is important to learn about them and understand their significance. Taking the time to incorporate the unfamiliar with our time-honored traditions, we may very well find a meaning of the text for today. The characteristics examined during Kwanzaa deserve special attention in every person’s life.
If you have friends of West African descent, you may want to take time and learn from them about their “festival of light” known as Kwanzaa.
--Ben Keckler
12.03.10
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 2
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
--Isaiah 9:6b
Holiday. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at these holy days/holy seasons.
Christianity, the largest of the world’s religions, actually celebrates the holy day of Christmas in a variety of ways. A significant number of Christians are known as Eastern Orthodox Christians. Eastern Christianity is significantly different from Western Christianity—both are Christian and probably would not even recognize their common lineage during this holiday season. Today we think about Eastern Christianity.
The Christmas holiday is not very significant in Eastern tradition. There is some festivity surrounding the Holy Family and the Holy Child, but the festivity centers around a time for worshipping the birth of Jesus, of whom the prophet said would have many names. Orthodox churches that are found in our Western culture (Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Serbian Orthodox to give a few) may adapt some of the Western traditions. Generally this is a difficult struggle for these Orthodox believers. Our nation is filled with Western practices relating to Christmas and sometimes it is difficult to understand that some believers don’t make a “big deal” about this special holiday.
The prophet stated that the child who was born would have many names. It seems right, then, that there would be many ways to recognize his birth. Thanks to God for the gift of the Eastern Orthodox practice of Christianity.
If you have friends who are Eastern Orthodox Christians, you may want to take time and learn more about their understanding of the holy day celebrated as Christmas.
--Ben Keckler
12.02.10
“And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
--Isaiah 9:6b
Holiday. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at these holy days/holy seasons.
Christianity, the largest of the world’s religions, actually celebrates the holy day of Christmas in a variety of ways. A significant number of Christians are known as Eastern Orthodox Christians. Eastern Christianity is significantly different from Western Christianity—both are Christian and probably would not even recognize their common lineage during this holiday season. Today we think about Eastern Christianity.
The Christmas holiday is not very significant in Eastern tradition. There is some festivity surrounding the Holy Family and the Holy Child, but the festivity centers around a time for worshipping the birth of Jesus, of whom the prophet said would have many names. Orthodox churches that are found in our Western culture (Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Serbian Orthodox to give a few) may adapt some of the Western traditions. Generally this is a difficult struggle for these Orthodox believers. Our nation is filled with Western practices relating to Christmas and sometimes it is difficult to understand that some believers don’t make a “big deal” about this special holiday.
The prophet stated that the child who was born would have many names. It seems right, then, that there would be many ways to recognize his birth. Thanks to God for the gift of the Eastern Orthodox practice of Christianity.
If you have friends who are Eastern Orthodox Christians, you may want to take time and learn more about their understanding of the holy day celebrated as Christmas.
--Ben Keckler
12.02.10
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 1
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
--Psalm 27:1
Holiday. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind, don’t they? First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. The rest of this week we will look at some of these holy days/holy seasons.
This evening Hanukkah starts, a series of days the Jewish community takes to celebrate as the Festival of Lights and the Feast of Dedication. Each evening during the season, Jewish families and communities light an additional candle on their menorahs until all eight are burning. They recount miracle stories of their faith tradition, play games and enjoy family time. Psalm 27 gives a poetic backdrop for what these people of faith are celebrating.
If you have Jewish friends, take a moment and wish them a blessed holiday and a blessed holy season.
--Ben Keckler
12.01.10
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
--Psalm 27:1
Holiday. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind, don’t they? First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set-aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. The rest of this week we will look at some of these holy days/holy seasons.
This evening Hanukkah starts, a series of days the Jewish community takes to celebrate as the Festival of Lights and the Feast of Dedication. Each evening during the season, Jewish families and communities light an additional candle on their menorahs until all eight are burning. They recount miracle stories of their faith tradition, play games and enjoy family time. Psalm 27 gives a poetic backdrop for what these people of faith are celebrating.
If you have Jewish friends, take a moment and wish them a blessed holiday and a blessed holy season.
--Ben Keckler
12.01.10
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 30
Some Important Thoughts to Consider
Several years ago, one of our hospital associates asked me to pass these thoughts along to others. It is very appropriate for today and so I share it with you as yet another week unfolds and another month comes to an end.
● May there be peace within today.
● May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
● May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
● May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
● May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
● Let Holy presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of you!
Thanks, Friend! I haven't forgotten your powerful thoughts!
--Ben Keckler
11.30.10
Several years ago, one of our hospital associates asked me to pass these thoughts along to others. It is very appropriate for today and so I share it with you as yet another week unfolds and another month comes to an end.
● May there be peace within today.
● May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
● May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
● May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
● May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
● Let Holy presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of you!
Thanks, Friend! I haven't forgotten your powerful thoughts!
--Ben Keckler
11.30.10
Monday, November 29, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 29
Moving from Thanksgiving to Holy Days
There are a number of religious holidays that are celebrated in these dark days of northern hemisphere December. They all seem to talk about light coming to us in the midst of our darkness. Today's prayer seems most appropriate:
All-knowing God, show us the poor—
Not just the ones who have been pushed aside
in the wake of competition,
but the ones who are losing self-confidence,
the ones who are victims of the system they helped to build,
the ones whose jobs no longer exist.
Show us that there also is a poverty of the heart—
when saving is more important than sharing.
Help us to find security in sharing all our resources
so that through our total effort,
we will answer your call,
we will learn the value of kinship with all,
and we will discover that sharing by all can mean scarcity for none.
Have a wonderful week in whatever you do.
--Ben Keckler
11.29.10
There are a number of religious holidays that are celebrated in these dark days of northern hemisphere December. They all seem to talk about light coming to us in the midst of our darkness. Today's prayer seems most appropriate:
All-knowing God, show us the poor—
Not just the ones who have been pushed aside
in the wake of competition,
but the ones who are losing self-confidence,
the ones who are victims of the system they helped to build,
the ones whose jobs no longer exist.
Show us that there also is a poverty of the heart—
when saving is more important than sharing.
Help us to find security in sharing all our resources
so that through our total effort,
we will answer your call,
we will learn the value of kinship with all,
and we will discover that sharing by all can mean scarcity for none.
Have a wonderful week in whatever you do.
--Ben Keckler
11.29.10
Friday, November 26, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 26
From Holiday to Holy Days
It is the day after the national holiday of Thanksgiving. Yes, today is that equally important holiday for many – Black Friday! If you are one of those folks who enjoys Black Friday, congrats! If you are one of those folks who prefers to avoid the crowd, I'm with you on this one!
Over these next weeks we will move into Holy Days. Much of culture will be filled with the sights, the sounds, the magic related to the Christian holy days. It is good to remember that this great land has other equally significant holy days during these next weeks.
We have just celebrated a national holiday that says we are thankful to be in this land. This land is a land that allows liberty for all. I trust that we can respect the Holy practices of each person in this land of diversity, allowing each person the religious liberty to celebrate faith as they desire. May we move gracefully through the Holy days because we are people who embrace the significance of the thanksgiving holiday.
--Ben Keckler
11.26.10
It is the day after the national holiday of Thanksgiving. Yes, today is that equally important holiday for many – Black Friday! If you are one of those folks who enjoys Black Friday, congrats! If you are one of those folks who prefers to avoid the crowd, I'm with you on this one!
Over these next weeks we will move into Holy Days. Much of culture will be filled with the sights, the sounds, the magic related to the Christian holy days. It is good to remember that this great land has other equally significant holy days during these next weeks.
We have just celebrated a national holiday that says we are thankful to be in this land. This land is a land that allows liberty for all. I trust that we can respect the Holy practices of each person in this land of diversity, allowing each person the religious liberty to celebrate faith as they desire. May we move gracefully through the Holy days because we are people who embrace the significance of the thanksgiving holiday.
--Ben Keckler
11.26.10
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 25
Thanksgiving Day
It is Drumstick Dash day, if you know what I mean! Many of you probably have a picture of a family feud happening over who gets the drumstick of that wonderful turkey. Hopefully, some of you are picturing the annual Drumstick Dash that Indianapolis has every year on Thanksgiving morning. This run benefits Wheeler Mission, a ministry for people who live on the fringes of society, struggling for food, shelter and clothing.
Every year my wife and I help with the dash – we don't run or even walk, but we have found a way of volunteering that works for us. After we finish with our volunteering we return home and do the final preparations for the festivities. We are privileged to host this year. Can't wait to see if anyone in our gathering dashes for the drumstick! I trust that you will have a meaningful holiday!
Clearly thanksgiving day is a national holiday that comes once a year but quite honestly, I trust that it comes far more frequently as your heart expresses sincere gratitude for the abundant life we are privileged to experience.
--Ben Keckler
11.25.10
It is Drumstick Dash day, if you know what I mean! Many of you probably have a picture of a family feud happening over who gets the drumstick of that wonderful turkey. Hopefully, some of you are picturing the annual Drumstick Dash that Indianapolis has every year on Thanksgiving morning. This run benefits Wheeler Mission, a ministry for people who live on the fringes of society, struggling for food, shelter and clothing.
Every year my wife and I help with the dash – we don't run or even walk, but we have found a way of volunteering that works for us. After we finish with our volunteering we return home and do the final preparations for the festivities. We are privileged to host this year. Can't wait to see if anyone in our gathering dashes for the drumstick! I trust that you will have a meaningful holiday!
Clearly thanksgiving day is a national holiday that comes once a year but quite honestly, I trust that it comes far more frequently as your heart expresses sincere gratitude for the abundant life we are privileged to experience.
--Ben Keckler
11.25.10
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 24
Moving Toward A National Holiday
J. B. Priestley, a British author, left our world in 1984. He was an insightful person and there are a number of his wonderful quotes that can inspire us today. As we journey toward our national holiday of Thanksgiving and on toward a number of significant religious holidays, this snippet may be helpful.
"I have always been delighted at the prospect
of a new day, a fresh try,
one more start with perhaps a bit of magic
waiting somewhere behind the morning!"
Enjoy a wonderful Wednesday, followed by a turkey Thursday and a fabulous Friday.
--Ben Keckler
11.24.10
J. B. Priestley, a British author, left our world in 1984. He was an insightful person and there are a number of his wonderful quotes that can inspire us today. As we journey toward our national holiday of Thanksgiving and on toward a number of significant religious holidays, this snippet may be helpful.
"I have always been delighted at the prospect
of a new day, a fresh try,
one more start with perhaps a bit of magic
waiting somewhere behind the morning!"
Enjoy a wonderful Wednesday, followed by a turkey Thursday and a fabulous Friday.
--Ben Keckler
11.24.10
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 23
Moving Toward A National Holiday
A day of celebration is just hours away. A day to remember a festive moment from our patchwork quilt of American history. A day to focus on a time when people of very different ethnic and religious/spiritual traditions took time to give thanks and enjoy the fruit of fall harvests. A day when it didn't matter what the color or creed of a fellow inhabitant was. A day when giving thanks was done in unity. A day when the celebration was about bountiful blessings and common humanity.
Can we celebrate this week in that kind of a spirit? I hope so. In the 1600's there was an Anglican Bishop by the name of Jeremy Taylor. I like what he had to say:
"The private and personal blessings we enjoy,
the blessings of immunity, safeguard, liberty and integrity
deserve the thanksgiving of a whole lifetime."
Life thankfully – today, this week, for a lifetime.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.10
A day of celebration is just hours away. A day to remember a festive moment from our patchwork quilt of American history. A day to focus on a time when people of very different ethnic and religious/spiritual traditions took time to give thanks and enjoy the fruit of fall harvests. A day when it didn't matter what the color or creed of a fellow inhabitant was. A day when giving thanks was done in unity. A day when the celebration was about bountiful blessings and common humanity.
Can we celebrate this week in that kind of a spirit? I hope so. In the 1600's there was an Anglican Bishop by the name of Jeremy Taylor. I like what he had to say:
"The private and personal blessings we enjoy,
the blessings of immunity, safeguard, liberty and integrity
deserve the thanksgiving of a whole lifetime."
Life thankfully – today, this week, for a lifetime.
--Ben Keckler
11.23.10
Monday, November 22, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 22
Finding Your Quiet Center
Daily I am presented with the task of staying in the quiet center of my life, the place of peace and contentment. The initial struggle to find that place, to name and claim that sacred space is probably the most difficult task that confronts us. The on-going challenge of staying in the quiet center needs continual attentiveness and tweaking. Recently I read the following insight by Alban Goodier, the archbishop emeritus of Bombay, India. Hope this helps you center and enjoy your week, complete with a meaningful Thanksgiving holiday:
“Those who face that which is actually before them,
unburdened by the past,
undistracted by the future,
these are they who live, who make the best use of their lives;
these are those who have found the secret of contentment.”
Good stuff to contemplate. Have a good Monday.
--Ben Keckler
11.22.10
Daily I am presented with the task of staying in the quiet center of my life, the place of peace and contentment. The initial struggle to find that place, to name and claim that sacred space is probably the most difficult task that confronts us. The on-going challenge of staying in the quiet center needs continual attentiveness and tweaking. Recently I read the following insight by Alban Goodier, the archbishop emeritus of Bombay, India. Hope this helps you center and enjoy your week, complete with a meaningful Thanksgiving holiday:
“Those who face that which is actually before them,
unburdened by the past,
undistracted by the future,
these are they who live, who make the best use of their lives;
these are those who have found the secret of contentment.”
Good stuff to contemplate. Have a good Monday.
--Ben Keckler
11.22.10
Friday, November 19, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 19
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we have taken 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 plant 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
11.19.20
“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 have taken 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 plant 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
11.19.20
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 18
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the heart of 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.”
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
11.18.10
“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.”
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
11.18.10
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 17
Prayers from Thankful People
“The Lord will indeed give what is good
and our land will yield its harvest.”
--A prayer of the faithful (Psalm 85:12)
As the rhythm of the fall moves us closer and closer to the holiday set aside for giving thanks, we will take a few moments each day with a prayer of faith. Today’s prayer comes from the 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.”
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
11.17.10
“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.”
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
11.17.10
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 16
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.”
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
11.17.10
“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.”
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
11.17.10
Monday, November 15, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 15
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.”
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
11.15.10
“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.”
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
11.15.10
Friday, November 12, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 12
Reflections on Little Gems
“When you open your heart, you open your mind.”
--Pearls of Wisdom, Beth Mende Conne
“But if you seek the Lord your God,
you will find him if you look for him with all your heart.”
--An ancient Hebrew teaching from the Deuteronomist (4:29)
I submit two little gems for your meditation today and throughout the weekend. So many times I find people trying to “figure” out the hows, the whys – all the intellectual questions that tend to come when contemplating the Divine.
The century old insight from the Deuteronomist seems to suggest that the intellectual answers only come when we get the “heart” where it needs to be. So, take the next 72 hours and just open your soul to the deepest truth I know: the Creator loves YOU!
--Ben Keckler
11.12.10
“When you open your heart, you open your mind.”
--Pearls of Wisdom, Beth Mende Conne
“But if you seek the Lord your God,
you will find him if you look for him with all your heart.”
--An ancient Hebrew teaching from the Deuteronomist (4:29)
I submit two little gems for your meditation today and throughout the weekend. So many times I find people trying to “figure” out the hows, the whys – all the intellectual questions that tend to come when contemplating the Divine.
The century old insight from the Deuteronomist seems to suggest that the intellectual answers only come when we get the “heart” where it needs to be. So, take the next 72 hours and just open your soul to the deepest truth I know: the Creator loves YOU!
--Ben Keckler
11.12.10
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 11
Reflections on Little Gems
“When people say you can’t, turn the other ear.”
--Pearls of Wisdom, Beth Mende Conne
“If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also…”
--Jesus, as recorded in Matthew’s gospel (6:39)
• No one likes hearing, “You can’t do that.” No one likes the feeling of being “slapped in the face.”
• Each saying tells us a lot about appropriate attitude in the midst of painful moments.
• Turning the other ear is a way of saying, “I hear what you have said and now I am ready to listen to another voice.”
• Turning the other cheek is a way of saying, “You have hurt me but I am willing to travel more miles with you.”
May your life be graced with enough self-love and enough compassion that you are able to turn the other ear and turn the other cheek.
--Ben Keckler
11.11.10
“When people say you can’t, turn the other ear.”
--Pearls of Wisdom, Beth Mende Conne
“If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also…”
--Jesus, as recorded in Matthew’s gospel (6:39)
• No one likes hearing, “You can’t do that.” No one likes the feeling of being “slapped in the face.”
• Each saying tells us a lot about appropriate attitude in the midst of painful moments.
• Turning the other ear is a way of saying, “I hear what you have said and now I am ready to listen to another voice.”
• Turning the other cheek is a way of saying, “You have hurt me but I am willing to travel more miles with you.”
May your life be graced with enough self-love and enough compassion that you are able to turn the other ear and turn the other cheek.
--Ben Keckler
11.11.10
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 10
God: Absent or Present
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
Have you ever felt abandoned by God?
Have you ever felt the presence of God?
My experiences lead me to believe that abandonment is the feeling we have when the presence of God is happening in silence. Seismologists can confirm that the earth is always shifting or moving. Yet we seldom think about the earth “quaking” until the pictures fall off the wall!
In the quiet times of life, it can feel like God is absent. Be very still today, maybe the silence will speak! Maybe awareness will grow.
--Ben Keckler
11.10.10
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
Have you ever felt abandoned by God?
Have you ever felt the presence of God?
My experiences lead me to believe that abandonment is the feeling we have when the presence of God is happening in silence. Seismologists can confirm that the earth is always shifting or moving. Yet we seldom think about the earth “quaking” until the pictures fall off the wall!
In the quiet times of life, it can feel like God is absent. Be very still today, maybe the silence will speak! Maybe awareness will grow.
--Ben Keckler
11.10.10
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 9
God: Absent or Present
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
One of my teachers once said, “A simple, quiet presence can be enough to create a freeing distance that allows someone to discover an unexpected perspective on a seemingly hopeless situation.”
I like that statement. Quiet doesn’t equal absent. Silence can mean present. So if you are wondering about God’s presence, make sure you listen closely to the silence.
--Ben Keckler
11.09.10
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
One of my teachers once said, “A simple, quiet presence can be enough to create a freeing distance that allows someone to discover an unexpected perspective on a seemingly hopeless situation.”
I like that statement. Quiet doesn’t equal absent. Silence can mean present. So if you are wondering about God’s presence, make sure you listen closely to the silence.
--Ben Keckler
11.09.10
Monday, November 8, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 8
God: Absent or Present
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
We begin another week and it feels like it is time to explore one of life’s difficult dilemmas. Is God present or absent?
• Too many friends are dealing with life shattering experiences at a personal level. They are asking this question!
• Too many families are overwhelmed because economic chaos is changing their plans for a perceived secure future. They are asking this question!
• Natural disasters can never be controlled and they too reap devastation upon masses of people who were not prepared for violent acts of nature. They are asking this question!
“The problems of life often overwhelm us. The concreteness and immediacy of present misery seldom permits sufficient distance to see and experience a larger presence,” wrote Henri Nouwen in 1989.
As we begin this week, I want to challenge you to be attentive. Be attentive to the moments when you feel the absence of God and to the moments when you feel the presence of God. May your experiences and your reflections unite your spirit with the millions who wrestle with this difficult dilemma of life.
--Ben Keckler
11.08.10
“Search me, O God, and know my heart:
Test me and know my thoughts,
See if there is any wicked way in me
Lead me in the way everlasting.”
--Words of an old songwriter
Psalm 139:23, 24
We begin another week and it feels like it is time to explore one of life’s difficult dilemmas. Is God present or absent?
• Too many friends are dealing with life shattering experiences at a personal level. They are asking this question!
• Too many families are overwhelmed because economic chaos is changing their plans for a perceived secure future. They are asking this question!
• Natural disasters can never be controlled and they too reap devastation upon masses of people who were not prepared for violent acts of nature. They are asking this question!
“The problems of life often overwhelm us. The concreteness and immediacy of present misery seldom permits sufficient distance to see and experience a larger presence,” wrote Henri Nouwen in 1989.
As we begin this week, I want to challenge you to be attentive. Be attentive to the moments when you feel the absence of God and to the moments when you feel the presence of God. May your experiences and your reflections unite your spirit with the millions who wrestle with this difficult dilemma of life.
--Ben Keckler
11.08.10
Friday, November 5, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, November 5
The Faces of Homelessness
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week I’ve attempted to present some different faces of homelessness. I hope you’ve been able to see some of the manifestations of homelessness that cause us to have such a lonely and fearful society. Maybe you can identify some additional faces of homelessness. I’d like to hear from you about this subject.
As we move through November on our way to the Thanksgiving holiday, I’d encourage you to name the blessings that come your way. I’d encourage you to claim the ways that you feel homeless. And I’d encourage you to explore the possible ways that you both give and receive comfort for those times when “home” seems so very far away.
Have a good weekend. Remember the promise of the Holy One. Embrace another and allow their warm embrace to feel a bit more “at home” on your travels through the tough times of life. Rather than fleeing in fear, run toward your tough time and get acquainted!
--Ben Keckler
11.05.10
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week I’ve attempted to present some different faces of homelessness. I hope you’ve been able to see some of the manifestations of homelessness that cause us to have such a lonely and fearful society. Maybe you can identify some additional faces of homelessness. I’d like to hear from you about this subject.
As we move through November on our way to the Thanksgiving holiday, I’d encourage you to name the blessings that come your way. I’d encourage you to claim the ways that you feel homeless. And I’d encourage you to explore the possible ways that you both give and receive comfort for those times when “home” seems so very far away.
Have a good weekend. Remember the promise of the Holy One. Embrace another and allow their warm embrace to feel a bit more “at home” on your travels through the tough times of life. Rather than fleeing in fear, run toward your tough time and get acquainted!
--Ben Keckler
11.05.10
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, November 4
Military Homelessness
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are addressing the subject of homelessness in our society. It is really much more pervasive than we imagine. Today I want to explore the subject of military homelessness, attempting to paint a picture and offer an insight about how to help the homeless.
A few years ago, our nephew graduated from the University of Arkansas. He was in ROTC throughout his academic career and now has completed a stint in Iraq, serving as an officer in the United States Army. He is an outstanding young man; he has his own apartment and is adjusting to his new life back in America. He comes up to Indy as often as he can. When I listen to him talk about his military life, it is clear that he is not settled. His stories clearly reflect a person who is experiencing “homelessness.”
If he is experiencing homelessness in his setting, just think what it must be like for all the military service folk whose lives are totally disrupted! The word “home” is a symbol for warmth, love and happiness. Even amid the sometimes chaos and suffering, the phrase is still often repeated, “I can’t wait to get home.”
Today my nephew will continue his life in the military at a base in Georgia. Let's offer a pray for those guys and girls who are away from home and are learning, in their own way, what homelessness feels like. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
11.04.10
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are addressing the subject of homelessness in our society. It is really much more pervasive than we imagine. Today I want to explore the subject of military homelessness, attempting to paint a picture and offer an insight about how to help the homeless.
A few years ago, our nephew graduated from the University of Arkansas. He was in ROTC throughout his academic career and now has completed a stint in Iraq, serving as an officer in the United States Army. He is an outstanding young man; he has his own apartment and is adjusting to his new life back in America. He comes up to Indy as often as he can. When I listen to him talk about his military life, it is clear that he is not settled. His stories clearly reflect a person who is experiencing “homelessness.”
If he is experiencing homelessness in his setting, just think what it must be like for all the military service folk whose lives are totally disrupted! The word “home” is a symbol for warmth, love and happiness. Even amid the sometimes chaos and suffering, the phrase is still often repeated, “I can’t wait to get home.”
Today my nephew will continue his life in the military at a base in Georgia. Let's offer a pray for those guys and girls who are away from home and are learning, in their own way, what homelessness feels like. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
11.04.10
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, November 3
Campus Homelessness
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are examining the subject of homelessness in our society. We are looking at this subject through a number of different lenses. Today I want to let Dr. Henri Nouwen, one of my pastoral care mentors who spent a large part of his pastoral career in the university setting, talk about a homelessness we seldom recognize.
“While teaching university students who came from many different states and countries, I was struck how lonely they were. For many years they live in small rooms, surrounded by strangers, far away from their familiar surroundings. There is little privacy and even less community in their lives. Mostly they have no contact with children or elderly people. Seldom do they belong to a welcoming neighborhood or a supportive faith community, and only very few know families where they can drop in anytime and feel at home. I have come to consider this situation in which thousands of young adults live as ‘normal’ but when I examine it a little closer it is not hard to understand why so many feel rootless and even lost.” (Lifesigns, p. 28)
For years we tailgated at Purdue on football weekends, we made it a point to invite as many college kids as we could to our “football festivities” on the golf course. We even received a thank you from one of the families who lives a couple hundred miles away expressing appreciation that we had included their son in our family.
Homelessness appears in more ways than we might imagine!
--Ben Keckler
11.03.10
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are examining the subject of homelessness in our society. We are looking at this subject through a number of different lenses. Today I want to let Dr. Henri Nouwen, one of my pastoral care mentors who spent a large part of his pastoral career in the university setting, talk about a homelessness we seldom recognize.
“While teaching university students who came from many different states and countries, I was struck how lonely they were. For many years they live in small rooms, surrounded by strangers, far away from their familiar surroundings. There is little privacy and even less community in their lives. Mostly they have no contact with children or elderly people. Seldom do they belong to a welcoming neighborhood or a supportive faith community, and only very few know families where they can drop in anytime and feel at home. I have come to consider this situation in which thousands of young adults live as ‘normal’ but when I examine it a little closer it is not hard to understand why so many feel rootless and even lost.” (Lifesigns, p. 28)
For years we tailgated at Purdue on football weekends, we made it a point to invite as many college kids as we could to our “football festivities” on the golf course. We even received a thank you from one of the families who lives a couple hundred miles away expressing appreciation that we had included their son in our family.
Homelessness appears in more ways than we might imagine!
--Ben Keckler
11.03.10
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, November 2
Institutional Homelessness
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are addressing the subject of homelessness in our society. We are exploring the subject through a number of different lenses, attempting to paint a picture and offer an insight about how we can help homeless folk when they feel orphaned.
Today, let’s turn to a familiar picture. It is easy for us to picture an institution where people live, some for a short stay (hospitalization) and some for extended stays (refugee camps, prisons, nursing homes). Not only are the patients we serve experiencing illness, they are also experiencing a type of homelessness. It is almost impossible to enjoy a meal, experience some resting and reading, or even sleep without being interrupted.
You see, friends, home is a place we can rest, where we can be renewed and refreshed. Each interruption, while needed or required, can heighten the feeling of homelessness.
One thing to keep in mind is that a patient may come to us believing they are going to experience homelessness! Every attempt we make to “Treat People Better” is a way of helping them to have an “at home” moment when their anticipated feeling was “homelessness.” Treating people better is one way of letting the patient know that they are not orphaned.
--Ben Keckler
11.02.10
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week we are addressing the subject of homelessness in our society. We are exploring the subject through a number of different lenses, attempting to paint a picture and offer an insight about how we can help homeless folk when they feel orphaned.
Today, let’s turn to a familiar picture. It is easy for us to picture an institution where people live, some for a short stay (hospitalization) and some for extended stays (refugee camps, prisons, nursing homes). Not only are the patients we serve experiencing illness, they are also experiencing a type of homelessness. It is almost impossible to enjoy a meal, experience some resting and reading, or even sleep without being interrupted.
You see, friends, home is a place we can rest, where we can be renewed and refreshed. Each interruption, while needed or required, can heighten the feeling of homelessness.
One thing to keep in mind is that a patient may come to us believing they are going to experience homelessness! Every attempt we make to “Treat People Better” is a way of helping them to have an “at home” moment when their anticipated feeling was “homelessness.” Treating people better is one way of letting the patient know that they are not orphaned.
--Ben Keckler
11.02.10
Monday, November 1, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, November 1
Drumstick Dash
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week I want to address the subject of homelessness in our society. It is much more pervasive than we might first imagine. Present economic conditions suggest it may get far worse before it gets better. We will explore the subject through a number of different lenses. Daily the attempt will be to paint a picture and offer an insight about how we can help homeless folk when they feel orphaned.
It’s Monday, so let’s start with an easy picture! In downtown Indianapolis there are several agencies that assist our brothers and sisters who are on the streets of Central Indiana. One of the agencies is Wheeler Mission. Through Wheeler people can experience a bit of home (home being a place where we can face our fears, experience a bit of freedom from the daily “stuff” that creates the fears and where there is someone who will receive our tears about those fears).
Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be homeless in the way our Wheeler Mission family is homeless? Have you ever spent time experiencing that depth of alone-ness? At number of times I’ve lived with homeless folk for a period of time. Those “vacations” are probably some of the best times in my life. They helped me in more ways than I can verbalize in a short devotional. Living beside those who only know the street as their home brings about deepened awareness about the promise “I will not leave you orphaned.”
In cultural America we like to donate to worthy causes that truly help the homeless. Wheeler offers a great event early on Thanksgiving morning that my wife and I participate in each year we are in town. It is called DRUMSTICK DASH. It is a fundraiser that helps the hungry to be fed and the homeless housed. If you can’t take a week and live with the homeless, could you take a few hours on Thanksgiving morning and join the Drumstick Dash, enabling homeless folk to experience a bit of loving support?
--Ben Keckler
11.01.10
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
--A promise from the Holy One to us
This week I want to address the subject of homelessness in our society. It is much more pervasive than we might first imagine. Present economic conditions suggest it may get far worse before it gets better. We will explore the subject through a number of different lenses. Daily the attempt will be to paint a picture and offer an insight about how we can help homeless folk when they feel orphaned.
It’s Monday, so let’s start with an easy picture! In downtown Indianapolis there are several agencies that assist our brothers and sisters who are on the streets of Central Indiana. One of the agencies is Wheeler Mission. Through Wheeler people can experience a bit of home (home being a place where we can face our fears, experience a bit of freedom from the daily “stuff” that creates the fears and where there is someone who will receive our tears about those fears).
Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be homeless in the way our Wheeler Mission family is homeless? Have you ever spent time experiencing that depth of alone-ness? At number of times I’ve lived with homeless folk for a period of time. Those “vacations” are probably some of the best times in my life. They helped me in more ways than I can verbalize in a short devotional. Living beside those who only know the street as their home brings about deepened awareness about the promise “I will not leave you orphaned.”
In cultural America we like to donate to worthy causes that truly help the homeless. Wheeler offers a great event early on Thanksgiving morning that my wife and I participate in each year we are in town. It is called DRUMSTICK DASH. It is a fundraiser that helps the hungry to be fed and the homeless housed. If you can’t take a week and live with the homeless, could you take a few hours on Thanksgiving morning and join the Drumstick Dash, enabling homeless folk to experience a bit of loving support?
--Ben Keckler
11.01.10
Friday, October 29, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, October 29
Thought for the Journey
As we prepare for the weekend, I hope you have experienced some personal challenge with the devotions this week. I am hopeful that you have let the Spirit dance within you, that you have allowed your thoughts to be expanded, and that you may feel a bit better equipped for living in this global community.
• Enjoy this weekend, maybe jump in a pile of fallen leaves or pack a picnic lunch and go to a favorite park to enjoy nature’s surroundings.
• Play this weekend, maybe toss a football around and see if you can keep from getting any body parts broken.
• Let your inner child be alive!
W. H. Davies puts it well: “It seems to me that the whole secret of life, if it is to be happy, is in the spirit of love; and when an old form of love dies we must take on the new. If life is to be made interesting and worth its breath, we must look on ourselves as growing children, right up to the end of our days.”
Enjoy your weekend.
Ben Keckler
10.29.10
As we prepare for the weekend, I hope you have experienced some personal challenge with the devotions this week. I am hopeful that you have let the Spirit dance within you, that you have allowed your thoughts to be expanded, and that you may feel a bit better equipped for living in this global community.
• Enjoy this weekend, maybe jump in a pile of fallen leaves or pack a picnic lunch and go to a favorite park to enjoy nature’s surroundings.
• Play this weekend, maybe toss a football around and see if you can keep from getting any body parts broken.
• Let your inner child be alive!
W. H. Davies puts it well: “It seems to me that the whole secret of life, if it is to be happy, is in the spirit of love; and when an old form of love dies we must take on the new. If life is to be made interesting and worth its breath, we must look on ourselves as growing children, right up to the end of our days.”
Enjoy your weekend.
Ben Keckler
10.29.10
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, October 28
Thoughts for the Journey
You may want to live with this thought-provoking prayer by Ted Loder as you do your work today:
“Holy One,
Gentle me into an unclenched moment,
A deep breath,
A letting go
Of heavy experiences, of shriveling anxieties,
Of dead certainties,
That, softened by the silence,
Surrounded by the light,
And open to the mystery,
I may be found by wholeness,
Upheld by the unfathomable,
Entranced by the simple,
And filled with the joy
That is YOU!”
May you be gently touched today, friends.
--Ben Keckler
10.28.10
You may want to live with this thought-provoking prayer by Ted Loder as you do your work today:
“Holy One,
Gentle me into an unclenched moment,
A deep breath,
A letting go
Of heavy experiences, of shriveling anxieties,
Of dead certainties,
That, softened by the silence,
Surrounded by the light,
And open to the mystery,
I may be found by wholeness,
Upheld by the unfathomable,
Entranced by the simple,
And filled with the joy
That is YOU!”
May you be gently touched today, friends.
--Ben Keckler
10.28.10
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, October 27
Thoughts for the Journey
If we believe in eternal life then what does that say about a person who has died? Are they dead or are they living? Something to think about I believe!
I believe life is eternal. I like the challenge Melody Beattie presents in these thoughts:
“Speak your truth. Listen when others speak theirs, too.
When you let go of fear, you will learn to love others
and you will let them love you.
Do not be afraid of dying. And do not be afraid to live!
Ask yourself what that line means.
Open your heart to love, for that is why you’re here.
And know that you are, and always have been One
with Me and all who live.”
Have a great day.
--Ben Keckler
10.27.10
If we believe in eternal life then what does that say about a person who has died? Are they dead or are they living? Something to think about I believe!
I believe life is eternal. I like the challenge Melody Beattie presents in these thoughts:
“Speak your truth. Listen when others speak theirs, too.
When you let go of fear, you will learn to love others
and you will let them love you.
Do not be afraid of dying. And do not be afraid to live!
Ask yourself what that line means.
Open your heart to love, for that is why you’re here.
And know that you are, and always have been One
with Me and all who live.”
Have a great day.
--Ben Keckler
10.27.10
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, October 26
Thoughts for the Journey
... “for everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.” (The book of Ecclesiastes)
One of my favorite quotes as the leaves continue to fall comes from Nancy Wood:
“You shall ask what good are dead leaves,
And I will tell you they nourish the sore earth.
You shall ask what reason is there for winter,
And I will tell you to bring about new leaves.
You shall ask why are the leaves so green
And I will tell you because they are rich with life.
You shall ask why must summer end
And I will tell you so that the leaves can die.”
Prayer: God, I thank you for the dying leaves (and my rake?)
--Ben Keckler
10.26.10
... “for everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.” (The book of Ecclesiastes)
One of my favorite quotes as the leaves continue to fall comes from Nancy Wood:
“You shall ask what good are dead leaves,
And I will tell you they nourish the sore earth.
You shall ask what reason is there for winter,
And I will tell you to bring about new leaves.
You shall ask why are the leaves so green
And I will tell you because they are rich with life.
You shall ask why must summer end
And I will tell you so that the leaves can die.”
Prayer: God, I thank you for the dying leaves (and my rake?)
--Ben Keckler
10.26.10
Monday, October 25, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, October 25
Constant Call for Compassionate Care
God gave us two ears but only one mouth.
Some people say that’s because He wanted us to spend
twice as much time listening as talking.
Others claim it’s because He knew that listening was twice as hard.
--Unknown
During the past five plus years I've been growing in a new responsibility or opportunity. It is really something I've been doing for most of my adult life; these last few years the focus has changed. Now I am dedicated to the specific challenge of compassionately caring for GRANDchildren.
We hear the constant call for compassionate care for all the GRAND children of our global village. Sometimes we do a good job, sometimes we need to polish our skills. Responding to this task can wear on us. Compassionate care for children begins when we actively listen to their heartsongs. Our creator knows how to listen and how hard listening really is. I personally believe that God would much rather we cry with one another and say “it hurts!” than for us to proclaim we are OK when we really are hurting!
Can we commit ourselves to this really difficult task — listening to children. A child comes to us crying, “It hurts!” No external wound, but “it hurts.” They may not be able to have anything more definitive than that. Compassionate care calls us to listen to those two simple words, to hear the cry of their hurting heart and then to provide the therapeutic touch. The cries are becoming more intense! Are you ready to listen and respond? God be with us in our listening and in our responding.
--Ben Keckler
10.25.10
God gave us two ears but only one mouth.
Some people say that’s because He wanted us to spend
twice as much time listening as talking.
Others claim it’s because He knew that listening was twice as hard.
--Unknown
During the past five plus years I've been growing in a new responsibility or opportunity. It is really something I've been doing for most of my adult life; these last few years the focus has changed. Now I am dedicated to the specific challenge of compassionately caring for GRANDchildren.
We hear the constant call for compassionate care for all the GRAND children of our global village. Sometimes we do a good job, sometimes we need to polish our skills. Responding to this task can wear on us. Compassionate care for children begins when we actively listen to their heartsongs. Our creator knows how to listen and how hard listening really is. I personally believe that God would much rather we cry with one another and say “it hurts!” than for us to proclaim we are OK when we really are hurting!
Can we commit ourselves to this really difficult task — listening to children. A child comes to us crying, “It hurts!” No external wound, but “it hurts.” They may not be able to have anything more definitive than that. Compassionate care calls us to listen to those two simple words, to hear the cry of their hurting heart and then to provide the therapeutic touch. The cries are becoming more intense! Are you ready to listen and respond? God be with us in our listening and in our responding.
--Ben Keckler
10.25.10
Friday, October 22, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, October 22
Awaiting Illumination 5
This week we have meditated on thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson’s book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
I would like to end the week with an adaptation of a prayer for self.
“Good morning God,
“I'm about to enter a weekend where I hope I can experience
renewal and, maybe, new life!
“Take my tired, depleted self and grant me a safe space
where rebirth is a possibility.
“I feel like I've been through enough;
I am weak, I've made mistakes,
I've blocked my awareness of Your abiding presence.
I am wounded by the demands of the past days and
need a sacred space for healing,
maybe next to a warm fire that can rekindle hope.
“Bring me enough light for today so that I can get through and
arrive at home to discover your renewing power
and energizing embrace.
Looking forward to our time together this weekend, Holy One.”
--Ben Keckler
10.22.10
This week we have meditated on thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson’s book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
I would like to end the week with an adaptation of a prayer for self.
“Good morning God,
“I'm about to enter a weekend where I hope I can experience
renewal and, maybe, new life!
“Take my tired, depleted self and grant me a safe space
where rebirth is a possibility.
“I feel like I've been through enough;
I am weak, I've made mistakes,
I've blocked my awareness of Your abiding presence.
I am wounded by the demands of the past days and
need a sacred space for healing,
maybe next to a warm fire that can rekindle hope.
“Bring me enough light for today so that I can get through and
arrive at home to discover your renewing power
and energizing embrace.
Looking forward to our time together this weekend, Holy One.”
--Ben Keckler
10.22.10
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, October 21
Awaiting Illumination 4
Occasionally I like to share helpful thoughts other sojourners have penned. This week’s sojourner, Marianne Williamson, incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that is helpful to our daily living.
Today selection, an adaptation of a prayer for difficult, depressing feelings, is from her book, Illuminata.
“Hello God?
“I feel a mess-- too focused on pain, anxiety and,
dare I say it, depression.
“I feel a mess-- shackled by chains of fear and sometimes,
dare I say it, paranoia.
“I feel a mess-- all the stuff I've been stuffing for far too long;
stuff that, dare I say it, I truly believe you've known in great details
for a long, long time!
“Is there a bit of light for me today?
Is there a chance that a chain could be loosed or maybe unlocked?
Is there a possibility that you could receive some of my dirty laundry from the suitcase of my stuff.
“Hello God.”
--Ben Keckler
10.21.10
Occasionally I like to share helpful thoughts other sojourners have penned. This week’s sojourner, Marianne Williamson, incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that is helpful to our daily living.
Today selection, an adaptation of a prayer for difficult, depressing feelings, is from her book, Illuminata.
“Hello God?
“I feel a mess-- too focused on pain, anxiety and,
dare I say it, depression.
“I feel a mess-- shackled by chains of fear and sometimes,
dare I say it, paranoia.
“I feel a mess-- all the stuff I've been stuffing for far too long;
stuff that, dare I say it, I truly believe you've known in great details
for a long, long time!
“Is there a bit of light for me today?
Is there a chance that a chain could be loosed or maybe unlocked?
Is there a possibility that you could receive some of my dirty laundry from the suitcase of my stuff.
“Hello God.”
--Ben Keckler
10.21.10
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, October 20
Awaiting Illumination 3
This week I am sharing some thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today an adaptation of a prayer for new life.
“Good morning, God,
“Journey close today with me, please. I want to take a step or two toward absolute and total reliance on You.
“There will be temptations to change my desire.
Journey close today with me.
“There will be temptations causing my vision to be blurred.
Journey close today with me.
“There will be temptations challenging me to trust my limited wisdom. Journey close with me today.
“Thank you for journeying with me. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.20.10
This week I am sharing some thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today an adaptation of a prayer for new life.
“Good morning, God,
“Journey close today with me, please. I want to take a step or two toward absolute and total reliance on You.
“There will be temptations to change my desire.
Journey close today with me.
“There will be temptations causing my vision to be blurred.
Journey close today with me.
“There will be temptations challenging me to trust my limited wisdom. Journey close with me today.
“Thank you for journeying with me. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.20.10
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, October 19
Awaiting Illumination 2
From time to time I use this devotional time to share helpful thoughts other sojourners have penned. This week I am sharing thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today, an adaptation of a Morning Prayer.
“Good morning God,
This day is ours.
“May I stay centered on things that keep my spirit connection strong
in the midst of today's storms. Please enter where you already abide.
“May I reach to the core of myself and those I am with, looking beyond the masks we all wear of the illusions that are so much a part of life.
“May I be sensitive to the things which can contribute to a safer world where beauty and peace are sensed by others.
“Continue healing the broken pieces of self so that I may enjoy
this day that is ours.
Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.19.10
From time to time I use this devotional time to share helpful thoughts other sojourners have penned. This week I am sharing thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today, an adaptation of a Morning Prayer.
“Good morning God,
This day is ours.
“May I stay centered on things that keep my spirit connection strong
in the midst of today's storms. Please enter where you already abide.
“May I reach to the core of myself and those I am with, looking beyond the masks we all wear of the illusions that are so much a part of life.
“May I be sensitive to the things which can contribute to a safer world where beauty and peace are sensed by others.
“Continue healing the broken pieces of self so that I may enjoy
this day that is ours.
Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.19.10
Monday, October 18, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, October 18
Awaiting Illumination
From time to time I use this devotional passage to share helpful thoughts that other sojourners have penned. This week I'd like to introduce you to some thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today excerpts from a prayer for a New Day (or Week):
“Holy One,
Thank you for this new day, its beauty and its light.
Thank you for my chance to begin again.
Free me from the limitations of yesterday.
Today may I be reborn....
May I be, this day, an instrument of love and healing....
Give me deep peace that I might serve deeply. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.18.10
From time to time I use this devotional passage to share helpful thoughts that other sojourners have penned. This week I'd like to introduce you to some thoughts and prayers from Marianne Williamson's book, Illuminata. She incorporates Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and New Age thought in a way that can be helpful for our daily living.
Today excerpts from a prayer for a New Day (or Week):
“Holy One,
Thank you for this new day, its beauty and its light.
Thank you for my chance to begin again.
Free me from the limitations of yesterday.
Today may I be reborn....
May I be, this day, an instrument of love and healing....
Give me deep peace that I might serve deeply. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
10.18.10
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, October 15
Responding To Life
“Don’t spend your precious time asking ‘Why isn’t the world a better place?’
It will only be time wasted.
A better question to ask is ‘How can I make it better?’
To that question there is an answer.”
Leo Buscaglia, The Way of the Bull, p. 125
Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about the mystery of life. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. We end the week with his important question?
From time to time we encounter things that can really have an impact on our lives. Some of those may be really tough experiences (I'd love to tell you about insights gained during a trip to Rwanda). We may journey to Calcutta like Buscaglia did; there he found the poverty and living conditions to be almost overwhelming. At the hospital we may walk into the room of a patient and find a devastated family. We may vacation in some part of our great land and see some deplorable sights that leave a memorable impression.
The way we respond to such encounters is important. Leo Buscaglia gives a valuable insight. How can I make the world a better place? Find your passion and live passionately!
Enjoy your weekend!
--Ben Keckler
10.15.10
“Don’t spend your precious time asking ‘Why isn’t the world a better place?’
It will only be time wasted.
A better question to ask is ‘How can I make it better?’
To that question there is an answer.”
Leo Buscaglia, The Way of the Bull, p. 125
Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about the mystery of life. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. We end the week with his important question?
From time to time we encounter things that can really have an impact on our lives. Some of those may be really tough experiences (I'd love to tell you about insights gained during a trip to Rwanda). We may journey to Calcutta like Buscaglia did; there he found the poverty and living conditions to be almost overwhelming. At the hospital we may walk into the room of a patient and find a devastated family. We may vacation in some part of our great land and see some deplorable sights that leave a memorable impression.
The way we respond to such encounters is important. Leo Buscaglia gives a valuable insight. How can I make the world a better place? Find your passion and live passionately!
Enjoy your weekend!
--Ben Keckler
10.15.10
Daily Devotion - Thursday, October 14
Each Moment
“Don’t worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
--A teaching from Jesus as remembered by Matthew (6:34)
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY
will only have reality as it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about the mysteries of life. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. Another way to title the book could be “The Way of Life”. How do you experience the journey from here.... to there?
When we live with folks unaccustomed to Western culture, we discover people of faith whose values are different than ours. Leo Buscaglia learned this on his trip to the Orient. The above quote is part of his summary statements. In many ways he echoes the words from the Sermon on the Mount (see the Scripture quote). It would be good to meditate on these quotes today.
As we live our life together, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. Obviously, we probably will have more than just this moment but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. If we can embrace the concept of “living in the moment”, we will truly be a healthy community.
--Ben Keckler
10.14.10
“Don’t worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
--A teaching from Jesus as remembered by Matthew (6:34)
“I was never told that man ‘possesses’ nothing.
I have learned, most importantly, that a WAY
will only have reality as it relates to living in the now.
Life isn’t the goal; it’s the voyage,
and the only reality seems to lie in allowing life to unfold.”
Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull)
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about the mysteries of life. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. Another way to title the book could be “The Way of Life”. How do you experience the journey from here.... to there?
When we live with folks unaccustomed to Western culture, we discover people of faith whose values are different than ours. Leo Buscaglia learned this on his trip to the Orient. The above quote is part of his summary statements. In many ways he echoes the words from the Sermon on the Mount (see the Scripture quote). It would be good to meditate on these quotes today.
As we live our life together, it is good to remember that we only have the moment we are in. Obviously, we probably will have more than just this moment but it isn’t guaranteed. So, take good care of each moment you have. If we can embrace the concept of “living in the moment”, we will truly be a healthy community.
--Ben Keckler
10.14.10
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, October 13
A Bowl of Rice
“We need not climb the mountain to see into the valley.
All things to be seen can be found in a simple shared bowl of rice.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull), p. 159
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about life’s mysteries. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. Another way to title the book could be The Way of Life.
When Buscaglia reached the mountains of Nepal he saw splendid views of valleys below. A number of years ago I was privileged to climb a glacier in Norway and gaze across the farms in the valley. Visual images of Nicaragua's mountains, the Columbia icefields in Canada, a village in El Salvador and a boy's school outside Kigali, Rwanda are all part of my life experiences. Like Mr. Buscaglia, I have mental pictures of natural beauty. But I must agree with Leo that the really important aspects of my travels are the times spent with fellow travelers enjoying a cup of coffee or a nice dinner, listening to the stories about their journey through the mountains and valleys of life. Fellowship with one another allows us to travel through life feeling the strength of companionship.
At our home we have a little saying we practice in all our relationships. It goes like this: “The purpose in life is not to see through each other but to see each other through.” Enjoy sharing life with others today, maybe in sharing stories while sipping a cup of coffee.
--Ben Keckler
10.13.10
“We need not climb the mountain to see into the valley.
All things to be seen can be found in a simple shared bowl of rice.”
--Leo Buscaglia (The Way of the Bull), p. 159
A number of years ago Mr. Buscaglia took a wonderful journey through Asia assimilating Oriental traditions into his understanding about life’s mysteries. In the Orient the bull symbolically represents life. Another way to title the book could be The Way of Life.
When Buscaglia reached the mountains of Nepal he saw splendid views of valleys below. A number of years ago I was privileged to climb a glacier in Norway and gaze across the farms in the valley. Visual images of Nicaragua's mountains, the Columbia icefields in Canada, a village in El Salvador and a boy's school outside Kigali, Rwanda are all part of my life experiences. Like Mr. Buscaglia, I have mental pictures of natural beauty. But I must agree with Leo that the really important aspects of my travels are the times spent with fellow travelers enjoying a cup of coffee or a nice dinner, listening to the stories about their journey through the mountains and valleys of life. Fellowship with one another allows us to travel through life feeling the strength of companionship.
At our home we have a little saying we practice in all our relationships. It goes like this: “The purpose in life is not to see through each other but to see each other through.” Enjoy sharing life with others today, maybe in sharing stories while sipping a cup of coffee.
--Ben Keckler
10.13.10
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, October 12
Taking Courage, Moving Forward
Rabindranath Tagore had the gift of precision with language and thought. One of his compact prayers is filled with great power and I share it with you today:
”Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers,
but to be fearless in facing them.
Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain,
but for the heart to conquer it.
Let me not crave in anxious fear to be saved,
but hope for the patience to win my freedom.”
--Ben Keckler
10.12.10
Rabindranath Tagore had the gift of precision with language and thought. One of his compact prayers is filled with great power and I share it with you today:
”Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers,
but to be fearless in facing them.
Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain,
but for the heart to conquer it.
Let me not crave in anxious fear to be saved,
but hope for the patience to win my freedom.”
--Ben Keckler
10.12.10
Monday, October 11, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, October 11
Signs of Seasonal Change
“Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me.”
--A simple prayer song
The leaves with color are falling and soon before us will be barren branches that remind us of change. I write this devotional on a day when I am giving thanks for an elderly friend who died just last night. The journey of these past six months has not been easy; accepting diminishing abilities is really tough. On days like this I like to spend time reading prayers and thoughts written by other sojourners who have safely completed their earth bound tasks. Frenchman, Teilhard de Chardin, offers this insightful prayer:
“When the signs of age begin to mark my body
(and still more when they touch my mind);
when the ill that is to diminish me or carry me off strikes from without
or is born within me;
when the painful moment comes in which I suddenly waken
to the fact that I am ill or growing old;
and above all at the last moments
when I feel I am losing hold of myself
and am absolutely passive in the hands
of the great unknown forces that have formed me;
in all those dark moments, O God,
grant that I may understand that it is you
(provided only my faith is strong enough)
who is painfully parting the fibers of my being
in order to penetrate to the very marrow of my substance
and bear me away within yourself.”
A prayer: Embrace my soul in the season of change, O Holy One.
--Ben Keckler
10.11.10
“Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me.”
--A simple prayer song
The leaves with color are falling and soon before us will be barren branches that remind us of change. I write this devotional on a day when I am giving thanks for an elderly friend who died just last night. The journey of these past six months has not been easy; accepting diminishing abilities is really tough. On days like this I like to spend time reading prayers and thoughts written by other sojourners who have safely completed their earth bound tasks. Frenchman, Teilhard de Chardin, offers this insightful prayer:
“When the signs of age begin to mark my body
(and still more when they touch my mind);
when the ill that is to diminish me or carry me off strikes from without
or is born within me;
when the painful moment comes in which I suddenly waken
to the fact that I am ill or growing old;
and above all at the last moments
when I feel I am losing hold of myself
and am absolutely passive in the hands
of the great unknown forces that have formed me;
in all those dark moments, O God,
grant that I may understand that it is you
(provided only my faith is strong enough)
who is painfully parting the fibers of my being
in order to penetrate to the very marrow of my substance
and bear me away within yourself.”
A prayer: Embrace my soul in the season of change, O Holy One.
--Ben Keckler
10.11.10
Friday, October 1, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, October 1
Some Thoughts for the Weekend
Over the years we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having spent time listening to Henri Nouwen and sitting at dinner with him on three occasions, he feels like a friend, but a better term is acquaintance. Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death, but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
The rhythms of the past week have brought me near to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, grief, loss, and recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following excerpt, from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being ‘better again’ was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help our understanding about when tough times confront us or those we love. Have a good day, a blessed weekend and enjoy every minute of life.
A prayer: Holy God, help and guide me today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
10.01.10
Over the years we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having spent time listening to Henri Nouwen and sitting at dinner with him on three occasions, he feels like a friend, but a better term is acquaintance. Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death, but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
The rhythms of the past week have brought me near to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, grief, loss, and recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following excerpt, from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being ‘better again’ was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help our understanding about when tough times confront us or those we love. Have a good day, a blessed weekend and enjoy every minute of life.
A prayer: Holy God, help and guide me today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
10.01.10
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, September 30
Reaching Out to Others
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith,
I have not stopped giving thanks for you,
remembering you in my prayers.”
--A follower (Ephesians 1:15)
What a privilege to work side by side with people who care! Our nation has had to face the devastation that comes from natural disasters. It is not pleasant. Now more than ever, it seems the news overwhelms us with the fragile nature of life. New occasions teach new duties and with new disasters will come new opportunities and new challenges.
It is a true privilege to work with caregiving people here at the hospital. Time and time again we respond above and beyond what others expect. Regularly we are given opportunities to share (United Way, Food Banks, etc). Thank you for demonstrating your compassionate spirits of faith.
Recently I was with some other chaplains who asked me specific questions about the spirit of generosity that exists at my hospital. Wow! Reaching out to others is so important and I give thanks for the way you share from your heart.
Thank you. I give thanks for you daily.
--Ben Keckler
09.30.10
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith,
I have not stopped giving thanks for you,
remembering you in my prayers.”
--A follower (Ephesians 1:15)
What a privilege to work side by side with people who care! Our nation has had to face the devastation that comes from natural disasters. It is not pleasant. Now more than ever, it seems the news overwhelms us with the fragile nature of life. New occasions teach new duties and with new disasters will come new opportunities and new challenges.
It is a true privilege to work with caregiving people here at the hospital. Time and time again we respond above and beyond what others expect. Regularly we are given opportunities to share (United Way, Food Banks, etc). Thank you for demonstrating your compassionate spirits of faith.
Recently I was with some other chaplains who asked me specific questions about the spirit of generosity that exists at my hospital. Wow! Reaching out to others is so important and I give thanks for the way you share from your heart.
Thank you. I give thanks for you daily.
--Ben Keckler
09.30.10
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, September 29
A Reason to Give Thanks
“Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them,
‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth…
I now establish my covenant with you and your descendants…’”
--From the story of Noah (Genesis 9, selected verses)
82 years ago my grandfather (Ben Keckler, Sr.) was ordained as a minister. My father (“Junior” as his brothers and sisters knew him) is still an active ordained minister (still preaching at a church he founded 51 years ago) and of course, Ben 3rd is writing this devotional after more than 35 years of active ordained ministry. Just as the story of family and covenant relationship with God is told in the Noah story, so centuries later I can tell a story of God’s blessing. I am grateful for family.
I wish there was a way to know the number of sermons, bible studies, weddings, funerals, baptisms, etc. where a person named Ben Keckler has provided pastoral care during the last 82 years. I think about the thousands and thousands of home and hospital visits that grandpa, dad and I have experienced. It is overwhelming to realize how many people have invited us into their lives to share God’s covenantal love with them.
I am filled with gratitude today for a loving God, a faithful family and a wonderful heritage. Believe me when I tell you that God is good. In the midst of all the STUFF we go through, I can honestly tell you that God is in love with this world and will not keep it a secret. Even in these increasingly turbulent times, I believe! God bless you today!
--Ben Keckler
09.29.10
“Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them,
‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth…
I now establish my covenant with you and your descendants…’”
--From the story of Noah (Genesis 9, selected verses)
82 years ago my grandfather (Ben Keckler, Sr.) was ordained as a minister. My father (“Junior” as his brothers and sisters knew him) is still an active ordained minister (still preaching at a church he founded 51 years ago) and of course, Ben 3rd is writing this devotional after more than 35 years of active ordained ministry. Just as the story of family and covenant relationship with God is told in the Noah story, so centuries later I can tell a story of God’s blessing. I am grateful for family.
I wish there was a way to know the number of sermons, bible studies, weddings, funerals, baptisms, etc. where a person named Ben Keckler has provided pastoral care during the last 82 years. I think about the thousands and thousands of home and hospital visits that grandpa, dad and I have experienced. It is overwhelming to realize how many people have invited us into their lives to share God’s covenantal love with them.
I am filled with gratitude today for a loving God, a faithful family and a wonderful heritage. Believe me when I tell you that God is good. In the midst of all the STUFF we go through, I can honestly tell you that God is in love with this world and will not keep it a secret. Even in these increasingly turbulent times, I believe! God bless you today!
--Ben Keckler
09.29.10
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, September 28
Musing About Friendship
“Do not forsake your friend….”
--A wisdom phrase (Proverbs 27:10)
One of the joys of fall that happens across our land is found at tailgate parties. Some are on Friday evening – high school events; some are on Saturday – college events; and some are on Sunday – professional events. Personally I enjoyed the college weekends at Purdue for a number of years, but as grandparent years have arrived, I rather expend my energy with the grandchildren.
When we tailgated we would enjoy the gift of friendship, entertaining folks from Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky as well as from around the state. I do miss those opportunities to celebrate the gift of friendship. It took commitment and energy (using a good college football game as an excuse), but the feeling in my heart at the conclusion of a great weekend was difficult to match. Now we are finding new ways to enjoy the gift of friendship, like a good evening in the backyard by the firepit. (I hope the drought ends soon!)
Enjoy the friends you have, expand your circle of friends and you will be surrounded by one of life’s great treasures.
--Ben Keckler
09.28.10
“Do not forsake your friend….”
--A wisdom phrase (Proverbs 27:10)
One of the joys of fall that happens across our land is found at tailgate parties. Some are on Friday evening – high school events; some are on Saturday – college events; and some are on Sunday – professional events. Personally I enjoyed the college weekends at Purdue for a number of years, but as grandparent years have arrived, I rather expend my energy with the grandchildren.
When we tailgated we would enjoy the gift of friendship, entertaining folks from Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky as well as from around the state. I do miss those opportunities to celebrate the gift of friendship. It took commitment and energy (using a good college football game as an excuse), but the feeling in my heart at the conclusion of a great weekend was difficult to match. Now we are finding new ways to enjoy the gift of friendship, like a good evening in the backyard by the firepit. (I hope the drought ends soon!)
Enjoy the friends you have, expand your circle of friends and you will be surrounded by one of life’s great treasures.
--Ben Keckler
09.28.10
Monday, September 27, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, September 27
Perspectives
“Wait for God;
be strong, let your heart take courage;
wait for God.”
--Words from a old song, Psalm 27: 14
A few years ago I received 3 e-mails in a 10 minute span. They caused me to think about how we look at life. Times have become increasingly difficult for many and so I'd like to share some snippets from those e-mails as we start another week.
E-mail #1: From Missionaries in Honduras
“We constantly think about keeping safe, whether from parasites in the water or from violence in the streets… We struggle with the reality of extreme poverty… We feel frustration each time we go through the hospital system and its long lines… We feel overwhelmed by the problems in the villages.”
E-mail #2: From a hospital executive about the health care infrastructure of New Orleans. “Essentially the health care infrastructure of New Orleans is gone – it no longer exists,” said Joe Cappiello from JCAHO.
E-mail #3: From an associate at my hospital who forwarded an e-mail titled, “I am thankful.” The e-mail lists a dozen reasons (with brief explanations) why the author is thankful. For example: “I am thankful for my huge heating bill… because it means I am warm.”
We are keenly aware that millions around the world are surviving in ways we find difficult to even imagine and we can be troubled by a seemingly sinking economy. Sometimes in our sheltered and safe existence we are tempted to complain. Thinking of the grieving souls, the starving souls, the homeless souls! Pray for them! Approach your day with thankfulness and gratitude for life and join with all our brothers and sisters as we wait for the Lord.
--Ben Keckler
09.27.10
“Wait for God;
be strong, let your heart take courage;
wait for God.”
--Words from a old song, Psalm 27: 14
A few years ago I received 3 e-mails in a 10 minute span. They caused me to think about how we look at life. Times have become increasingly difficult for many and so I'd like to share some snippets from those e-mails as we start another week.
E-mail #1: From Missionaries in Honduras
“We constantly think about keeping safe, whether from parasites in the water or from violence in the streets… We struggle with the reality of extreme poverty… We feel frustration each time we go through the hospital system and its long lines… We feel overwhelmed by the problems in the villages.”
E-mail #2: From a hospital executive about the health care infrastructure of New Orleans. “Essentially the health care infrastructure of New Orleans is gone – it no longer exists,” said Joe Cappiello from JCAHO.
E-mail #3: From an associate at my hospital who forwarded an e-mail titled, “I am thankful.” The e-mail lists a dozen reasons (with brief explanations) why the author is thankful. For example: “I am thankful for my huge heating bill… because it means I am warm.”
We are keenly aware that millions around the world are surviving in ways we find difficult to even imagine and we can be troubled by a seemingly sinking economy. Sometimes in our sheltered and safe existence we are tempted to complain. Thinking of the grieving souls, the starving souls, the homeless souls! Pray for them! Approach your day with thankfulness and gratitude for life and join with all our brothers and sisters as we wait for the Lord.
--Ben Keckler
09.27.10
Friday, September 24, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, September 24
Tending The Garden
“I never had so many good ideas day after day as when I work in the garden.”
--John Erskine
It is Friday morning and, forgive me if you can, I am anxious for the weekend. Yes, it is only 8 AM but, forgive me if you can, 4:30 can't get here quickly enough! This weekend I am hoping to spend some time tending my garden, getting the lawn and the flower beds ready for fall and winter. My neighbor and I have been planning this weekend's activities together and I sense we are both a bit excited to see if our plans will result in even healthier gardens than we had this year.
Like Mr. Erskine, it seems that working in the good earth helps me develop deeper awareness of my connection with all creation. New ideas flow forth from the centuries-old soil; ideas that were always there, ideas I wouldn't have had without the experience of tending the garden.
OOPS! It is Friday morning and there are some souls in the garden (the hospital) that probably have some good ideas, too. I think it is time to get to the tasks of the day so that when the weekend does arrive, I can spend some time with Mother Earth.
--Ben Keckler
09.24.10
“I never had so many good ideas day after day as when I work in the garden.”
--John Erskine
It is Friday morning and, forgive me if you can, I am anxious for the weekend. Yes, it is only 8 AM but, forgive me if you can, 4:30 can't get here quickly enough! This weekend I am hoping to spend some time tending my garden, getting the lawn and the flower beds ready for fall and winter. My neighbor and I have been planning this weekend's activities together and I sense we are both a bit excited to see if our plans will result in even healthier gardens than we had this year.
Like Mr. Erskine, it seems that working in the good earth helps me develop deeper awareness of my connection with all creation. New ideas flow forth from the centuries-old soil; ideas that were always there, ideas I wouldn't have had without the experience of tending the garden.
OOPS! It is Friday morning and there are some souls in the garden (the hospital) that probably have some good ideas, too. I think it is time to get to the tasks of the day so that when the weekend does arrive, I can spend some time with Mother Earth.
--Ben Keckler
09.24.10
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, September 23
A Meaningful Quote
“The more you encourage serendipity.. the more you'll get rich answers.”
--Tim Brown
The other day I read this quote and it really hit home. Several decades ago I spent several weeks being trained in how to facilitate effective groups. My primary mentor was Lyman Coleman, although several college professors were also highly influential in my learning process. Lyman was really good at creating a serendipity atmosphere for group effectiveness. He always had questions so he was prepared to guide the group, but he seldom seemed to get into his questions.
Why? Because he believed what Tim Brown is saying in today's quote.
Lyman believed that, no matter how good his questions were, the discussion would lead to better questions and dialogue. He believed that, no matter how much he was prepared, the direction of the group would unfold best when his open-ended questions were valued as secondary to the dynamics of the group process.
We talk about a culture where there is playfulness. Playful spirits emerge best when they are allowed to live in the world of serendipity. I vote for a serendipity type of world because there are some rich, rich answers that have yet to emerge, giving us clear guidance for life's uncharted tomorrows.
--Ben Keckler
09.23.10
“The more you encourage serendipity.. the more you'll get rich answers.”
--Tim Brown
The other day I read this quote and it really hit home. Several decades ago I spent several weeks being trained in how to facilitate effective groups. My primary mentor was Lyman Coleman, although several college professors were also highly influential in my learning process. Lyman was really good at creating a serendipity atmosphere for group effectiveness. He always had questions so he was prepared to guide the group, but he seldom seemed to get into his questions.
Why? Because he believed what Tim Brown is saying in today's quote.
Lyman believed that, no matter how good his questions were, the discussion would lead to better questions and dialogue. He believed that, no matter how much he was prepared, the direction of the group would unfold best when his open-ended questions were valued as secondary to the dynamics of the group process.
We talk about a culture where there is playfulness. Playful spirits emerge best when they are allowed to live in the world of serendipity. I vote for a serendipity type of world because there are some rich, rich answers that have yet to emerge, giving us clear guidance for life's uncharted tomorrows.
--Ben Keckler
09.23.10
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, September 22
Catch
As sports-loving grandparents, we could not wait to get our one year old a ball for his first birthday. Start 'em young, you know! Our grandson got a football. This is not your ordinary football – it has a soft, fuzzy material on the exterior and a super squeezy soft stuffing inside. Probably will be a better pillow than a ball to use for playing catch.
We all play catch.
Every day people throw things our way and we throw things to others. Generally the ball is words. Sometimes the words we catch hurt – maybe an unkind remark or an observation about a perceived shortcoming. The pain can be great and so we throw the ball back, hoping the sting we felt can be felt through our retort. This ballgame may go on and on, escalating in velocity much like a pitcher warming up to come into save the ball game. Not a healthy game to play.
Next time you find yourself playing catch, why not put the ball down and refuse to play. OR..........call me and I'll find a football for you like the one my wife found for our grandson.
--Ben Keckler
09.22.10
As sports-loving grandparents, we could not wait to get our one year old a ball for his first birthday. Start 'em young, you know! Our grandson got a football. This is not your ordinary football – it has a soft, fuzzy material on the exterior and a super squeezy soft stuffing inside. Probably will be a better pillow than a ball to use for playing catch.
We all play catch.
Every day people throw things our way and we throw things to others. Generally the ball is words. Sometimes the words we catch hurt – maybe an unkind remark or an observation about a perceived shortcoming. The pain can be great and so we throw the ball back, hoping the sting we felt can be felt through our retort. This ballgame may go on and on, escalating in velocity much like a pitcher warming up to come into save the ball game. Not a healthy game to play.
Next time you find yourself playing catch, why not put the ball down and refuse to play. OR..........call me and I'll find a football for you like the one my wife found for our grandson.
--Ben Keckler
09.22.10
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, September 21
Effective or Right?
This seems like a good topic for today's devotions. I’m almost finished with my Healthstream testing for the year. I am glad that I don't have to get every question right in order to pass the test. (I like getting 100%, but that doesn't happen all the time.)
Daily in my listening I hear people talking about wanting to do things right or to get “this (life)” right. Because most of that listening focuses on guiding folks through their grief walk, it seems important to remind people that “right/wrong” is one way of walking but “good/better/best” is also a way of walking.
Each of us have principles (that which is right). It is important that we do have principles. Few of us, very few, violate our own principles. Sometimes we confuse principles and preferences. Most things are a matter of preference, not principle. To be effective it is important to distinguish these two words in each dilemma of life.
“Focus on being effective instead of being right” is a helpful standard. Personally I'm glad that I didn't need 100% on every test. The rest of the day I'm going to work practicing effective pastoral care. You see, I believe that effectiveness is found in doing the right things more than in doing things right!
--Ben Keckler
09.21.10
This seems like a good topic for today's devotions. I’m almost finished with my Healthstream testing for the year. I am glad that I don't have to get every question right in order to pass the test. (I like getting 100%, but that doesn't happen all the time.)
Daily in my listening I hear people talking about wanting to do things right or to get “this (life)” right. Because most of that listening focuses on guiding folks through their grief walk, it seems important to remind people that “right/wrong” is one way of walking but “good/better/best” is also a way of walking.
Each of us have principles (that which is right). It is important that we do have principles. Few of us, very few, violate our own principles. Sometimes we confuse principles and preferences. Most things are a matter of preference, not principle. To be effective it is important to distinguish these two words in each dilemma of life.
“Focus on being effective instead of being right” is a helpful standard. Personally I'm glad that I didn't need 100% on every test. The rest of the day I'm going to work practicing effective pastoral care. You see, I believe that effectiveness is found in doing the right things more than in doing things right!
--Ben Keckler
09.21.10
Monday, September 20, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, September 20
A New Week Begins
Trying to live in the present moment is really challenging. Beginning a new week of work seems to be a fitting time to focus on living in the present. Daily I am honored to listen to people talk about life. Many focus so much on their yesterdays that they can't live in the moment. I am like that from time to time, too!
This insight might be helpful: “Drive home tonight but only look in the rear view mirror and... see how long it takes you to crash. Are you feeling anger or resentment towards someone or something that is in the rear view? There is a solution: Let it go. Relationship amnesia can be a good thing and it helps you focus on the road ahead where your effort matters!” (Anonymous)
Your yesterdays are history and they won't change, your tomorrows aren't here yet. Each of us has today-- a day to the make the most of, a day to help the world be a more peaceful place, a day to bring a rainbow of hope where darkness seems overpowering! Enjoying your new week means that you must enjoy today. May you be surrounded by a peaceful presence that allows today's potential to overwhelm you.
--Ben Keckler
09.20.10
Trying to live in the present moment is really challenging. Beginning a new week of work seems to be a fitting time to focus on living in the present. Daily I am honored to listen to people talk about life. Many focus so much on their yesterdays that they can't live in the moment. I am like that from time to time, too!
This insight might be helpful: “Drive home tonight but only look in the rear view mirror and... see how long it takes you to crash. Are you feeling anger or resentment towards someone or something that is in the rear view? There is a solution: Let it go. Relationship amnesia can be a good thing and it helps you focus on the road ahead where your effort matters!” (Anonymous)
Your yesterdays are history and they won't change, your tomorrows aren't here yet. Each of us has today-- a day to the make the most of, a day to help the world be a more peaceful place, a day to bring a rainbow of hope where darkness seems overpowering! Enjoying your new week means that you must enjoy today. May you be surrounded by a peaceful presence that allows today's potential to overwhelm you.
--Ben Keckler
09.20.10
Friday, September 17, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, September 17
Creativity
A lesson: Read Psalm 40
“God put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.”
We conclude this week’s thoughts on creativity with this prayer by Roberta Porter. May you have a weekend filled with many creative expressions of love, peace and joy.
“A Prayer for Becoming” by Roberta Porter
“Lord,
may I live each day
creatively, in you,
beginning with thanks for life itself,
for life in you.
“May I find my gifts, knowing
in the searching I am becoming
who you created me to be.
“May I use these gifts
to serve each task
as serving you, seeing in the work
and in others
your face, your light.
“And, at the end of the day
may I rest in your grace,
always grateful.
Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
09.17.10
A lesson: Read Psalm 40
“God put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.”
We conclude this week’s thoughts on creativity with this prayer by Roberta Porter. May you have a weekend filled with many creative expressions of love, peace and joy.
“A Prayer for Becoming” by Roberta Porter
“Lord,
may I live each day
creatively, in you,
beginning with thanks for life itself,
for life in you.
“May I find my gifts, knowing
in the searching I am becoming
who you created me to be.
“May I use these gifts
to serve each task
as serving you, seeing in the work
and in others
your face, your light.
“And, at the end of the day
may I rest in your grace,
always grateful.
Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
09.17.10
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, September 16
Creativity in the Quiet
“The discipline of solitude is one of the most powerful disciplines.
It is a simple, though not easy, way to free us from the slavery
of our occupations and preoccupations and begin
to hear the voice that makes all things new.”
--Henri Nouwen
Making All Things New, page 75
Now here is a major challenge for each of us – creating a space to be alone for a few minutes each day. Listening to silence is wonderful, but it can be tough to feel comfortable in silence. We are surrounded by distractions and interruptions, we are surrounded by noise and busy schedules, and in fact we’ve even created “surround sound”!
Oh for the moments of silence! I’ve recently returned from a visit with our granddaughters in Colorado (did take some time for daughter and son-in-law too!). They live near the base of Pike’s Peak in Colorado Springs. In between the care giving for our grandchildren, I was able to take some quiet time. Sitting in their living room and watching the wildlife graze in their front yard made quiet time pretty relaxing. The challenge now is to find ways to “be still” and know that God is renewing me day after day after day.
A prayer: God be near me as I creatively develop places of solitude. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.16.10
“The discipline of solitude is one of the most powerful disciplines.
It is a simple, though not easy, way to free us from the slavery
of our occupations and preoccupations and begin
to hear the voice that makes all things new.”
--Henri Nouwen
Making All Things New, page 75
Now here is a major challenge for each of us – creating a space to be alone for a few minutes each day. Listening to silence is wonderful, but it can be tough to feel comfortable in silence. We are surrounded by distractions and interruptions, we are surrounded by noise and busy schedules, and in fact we’ve even created “surround sound”!
Oh for the moments of silence! I’ve recently returned from a visit with our granddaughters in Colorado (did take some time for daughter and son-in-law too!). They live near the base of Pike’s Peak in Colorado Springs. In between the care giving for our grandchildren, I was able to take some quiet time. Sitting in their living room and watching the wildlife graze in their front yard made quiet time pretty relaxing. The challenge now is to find ways to “be still” and know that God is renewing me day after day after day.
A prayer: God be near me as I creatively develop places of solitude. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.16.10
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, September 15
Creativity Within
“I am about to do a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert”
--Isaiah 43:19
This verse contains a really wonderful insight about creativity. It tells us that creativity comes out of silence and listening. The source of new things in our lives is all about what the Holy One, the creator, is doing within us. As we take time to practice the art of stillness we will find ourselves dreaming dreams, seeing pictures in our minds, coming up with solutions for problems, …
Often we jump to statements about our inability. It is easy to do. For example, many people feel very inadequate with their artistic abilities. When asked to draw something I find myself getting uptight; I think, “I can’t draw.” The same is true with mechanical abilities, musical abilities and so on. We tend to jump to the concluding statement rather than allowing the silence to work a new thing within us.
In the pre-computer age we didn’t know about double-clicking on icons so that a screen would appear. Now millions who never thought they’d have any literacy about the “new thing” called computers have quietly discovered that they are doing things they never perceived they could do!
Enjoy the discoveries you make as creative wonder springs up within you!
--Ben Keckler
09.15.10
“I am about to do a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert”
--Isaiah 43:19
This verse contains a really wonderful insight about creativity. It tells us that creativity comes out of silence and listening. The source of new things in our lives is all about what the Holy One, the creator, is doing within us. As we take time to practice the art of stillness we will find ourselves dreaming dreams, seeing pictures in our minds, coming up with solutions for problems, …
Often we jump to statements about our inability. It is easy to do. For example, many people feel very inadequate with their artistic abilities. When asked to draw something I find myself getting uptight; I think, “I can’t draw.” The same is true with mechanical abilities, musical abilities and so on. We tend to jump to the concluding statement rather than allowing the silence to work a new thing within us.
In the pre-computer age we didn’t know about double-clicking on icons so that a screen would appear. Now millions who never thought they’d have any literacy about the “new thing” called computers have quietly discovered that they are doing things they never perceived they could do!
Enjoy the discoveries you make as creative wonder springs up within you!
--Ben Keckler
09.15.10
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, September 14
Creativity Within Us
“I will sing a new song to you, O God;
upon a ten-stringed harp I will play to you.”
--Psalm 144:9
Claiming your creative edge or edges can be a most energizing activity. You’ve heard someone say something like: “I’m not creative.” Possibly, you have even uttered those words. The reality is that each of us has creative potential within. Over the years, I’ve observed people display gifts I had no knowledge they possessed. They demonstrated the creative potential that was written in their spirit.
One way of discovering the creative genius within us is practice. A musician discovers the depth of their creative edge as they practice the basics of scales, chords, melody, harmony and technique. A gourmet chef develops their creative edge practicing with herbs and spices and then dreaming “outside the recipe box.” A gardener learns more and more about their creative edge by nurturing various plants and working in various soils. The more we practice the more we develop an inner confidence. With time we are ready to “sing new songs” and play new instruments of praise to our Creator. Having honed our skills, we are better prepared to listen with calm confidence to that inner voice that empowers us to create something unique.
--Ben Keckler
09.14.10
“I will sing a new song to you, O God;
upon a ten-stringed harp I will play to you.”
--Psalm 144:9
Claiming your creative edge or edges can be a most energizing activity. You’ve heard someone say something like: “I’m not creative.” Possibly, you have even uttered those words. The reality is that each of us has creative potential within. Over the years, I’ve observed people display gifts I had no knowledge they possessed. They demonstrated the creative potential that was written in their spirit.
One way of discovering the creative genius within us is practice. A musician discovers the depth of their creative edge as they practice the basics of scales, chords, melody, harmony and technique. A gourmet chef develops their creative edge practicing with herbs and spices and then dreaming “outside the recipe box.” A gardener learns more and more about their creative edge by nurturing various plants and working in various soils. The more we practice the more we develop an inner confidence. With time we are ready to “sing new songs” and play new instruments of praise to our Creator. Having honed our skills, we are better prepared to listen with calm confidence to that inner voice that empowers us to create something unique.
--Ben Keckler
09.14.10
Monday, September 13, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, September 13
Creativity
“I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you.”
--The Message (Ezekiel 36: 26)
I remember a couple of years ago here at work we experienced a wave of creativity. A jungle theme came alive; the hospital facilities seemed to warm up as department after department united in the theme. Visitors, patients and staff were smiling more as people accepted the challenge to be creative. The hospital became therapeutic in a new way. Generally we focus on healing through the gifted care of a medical community touching the aching person. What we discovered (and hopefully we will not forget) is that new life came to hurting persons through artistic, aesthetic touches. A generally sterile setting had new life.
Some of us may remember the “giftedness” of our community. I wonder if, in the midst of all the challenges we face, we can find ways to call forth that creativity on a regular basis? The reading for today talks about a “new spirit” dwelling within and among the people of God. That new spirit has the potential to emerge here — a spirit of creativity. I wonder if we can rediscover ways to let that dormant creativity be alive in the routines of our daily work. Truly creativity is an important part of treating people better.
--Ben Keckler
09.13.10
“I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you.”
--The Message (Ezekiel 36: 26)
I remember a couple of years ago here at work we experienced a wave of creativity. A jungle theme came alive; the hospital facilities seemed to warm up as department after department united in the theme. Visitors, patients and staff were smiling more as people accepted the challenge to be creative. The hospital became therapeutic in a new way. Generally we focus on healing through the gifted care of a medical community touching the aching person. What we discovered (and hopefully we will not forget) is that new life came to hurting persons through artistic, aesthetic touches. A generally sterile setting had new life.
Some of us may remember the “giftedness” of our community. I wonder if, in the midst of all the challenges we face, we can find ways to call forth that creativity on a regular basis? The reading for today talks about a “new spirit” dwelling within and among the people of God. That new spirit has the potential to emerge here — a spirit of creativity. I wonder if we can rediscover ways to let that dormant creativity be alive in the routines of our daily work. Truly creativity is an important part of treating people better.
--Ben Keckler
09.13.10
Friday, September 10, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, September 10
One Last Musing about Waterfalls
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Have you been to Niagara Falls? I've been there on numerous occasions and I believe I remember something from every visit to the falls. I've got some really funny stories to write about when I can take the time to journal them. For now they will remain fixed in my mind, they will probably gain some embellishments as memory interprets their realities. Folklore is always better, don't you agree?
One memorable trip was riding out toward the falls on the Maid of the Mist. The boat had to moan and groan a great deal as we journeyed closer and closer to the powerful rushing falls of the Niagara. Majestic-- beyond measure! Powerful-- beyond description! Energizing-- beyond words! I concur with the Psalm writer. Truly awesome!
It is just about time for the weekend. I think I'll take this week's devotions about water and waterfalls and recall many wonderful life experiences. Maybe I'll even work on some embellishments!
--Ben Keckler
09.10.10
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Have you been to Niagara Falls? I've been there on numerous occasions and I believe I remember something from every visit to the falls. I've got some really funny stories to write about when I can take the time to journal them. For now they will remain fixed in my mind, they will probably gain some embellishments as memory interprets their realities. Folklore is always better, don't you agree?
One memorable trip was riding out toward the falls on the Maid of the Mist. The boat had to moan and groan a great deal as we journeyed closer and closer to the powerful rushing falls of the Niagara. Majestic-- beyond measure! Powerful-- beyond description! Energizing-- beyond words! I concur with the Psalm writer. Truly awesome!
It is just about time for the weekend. I think I'll take this week's devotions about water and waterfalls and recall many wonderful life experiences. Maybe I'll even work on some embellishments!
--Ben Keckler
09.10.10
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, September 9
More Musings about Water
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
On Tuesday I told you about Athabasca Falls, a powerful waterfall in Alberta, Canada. As you journey north from the falls toward Jasper, Alberta there is a white water rafting business. During our holiday last year, my wife's brothers decided they would experience the white waters. (We opted for horseback riding!) Recently we got a CD of their trip. Water, water everywhere! Smiling faces indicated the great joy the trip created.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as they told of their excursion! (Personally, I thought our ride on the mountain trail was pretty majestic!) Yet, listening to their stories I could sense their water experience was more energizing than our ride on the trail horses. Their stories seemed to resonate these words: “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I will not ride a horse, nor will I board a raft or journey down a river. But in these few moments of devotion, I will journey with the pictures and the stories of a day spent rafting on the Athabasca River. And, I will recall the majesty of the Holy One.
--Ben Keckler
09.09.10
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
On Tuesday I told you about Athabasca Falls, a powerful waterfall in Alberta, Canada. As you journey north from the falls toward Jasper, Alberta there is a white water rafting business. During our holiday last year, my wife's brothers decided they would experience the white waters. (We opted for horseback riding!) Recently we got a CD of their trip. Water, water everywhere! Smiling faces indicated the great joy the trip created.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as they told of their excursion! (Personally, I thought our ride on the mountain trail was pretty majestic!) Yet, listening to their stories I could sense their water experience was more energizing than our ride on the trail horses. Their stories seemed to resonate these words: “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I will not ride a horse, nor will I board a raft or journey down a river. But in these few moments of devotion, I will journey with the pictures and the stories of a day spent rafting on the Athabasca River. And, I will recall the majesty of the Holy One.
--Ben Keckler
09.09.10
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, September 8
Water and Waterfalls – a Musing
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Last year when we vacationed in the Canadian Rockies, we had the opportunity to journey out onto the Columbia Ice Fields. Our excursion took us very close to a three way continental divide (from that point the waters flow to the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Arctic oceans). A glacier is huge – in order to qualify as a glacier the ice mass must be at least 100 ft. in depth, cover at least 25 acres of land and annually have measurable movement. Try to imagine standing on that much frozen, yet melting (ever so slowly) water.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as we spent time on the glacier and observed the water trickling toward a destination in one of the world's oceans. We had just received word of the birth of our grandson. I bent down on the ice, collected some glacial water and brought it home for his anticipated baptism. We recently celebrated that baptism and our grandson has now experienced his first water from another land! I won't forget either experience for quite some time, I am certain. “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I am in my reality. I grateful for water and its cleansing, refreshing nature. From time to time today I will allow water to cleanse my hands as I go through the work day. I will drink water to quench my thirst. I rejoice that I was able to enjoy water's sacramental splendor, last month.
--Ben Keckler
09.08.10
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Last year when we vacationed in the Canadian Rockies, we had the opportunity to journey out onto the Columbia Ice Fields. Our excursion took us very close to a three way continental divide (from that point the waters flow to the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Arctic oceans). A glacier is huge – in order to qualify as a glacier the ice mass must be at least 100 ft. in depth, cover at least 25 acres of land and annually have measurable movement. Try to imagine standing on that much frozen, yet melting (ever so slowly) water.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as we spent time on the glacier and observed the water trickling toward a destination in one of the world's oceans. We had just received word of the birth of our grandson. I bent down on the ice, collected some glacial water and brought it home for his anticipated baptism. We recently celebrated that baptism and our grandson has now experienced his first water from another land! I won't forget either experience for quite some time, I am certain. “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I am in my reality. I grateful for water and its cleansing, refreshing nature. From time to time today I will allow water to cleanse my hands as I go through the work day. I will drink water to quench my thirst. I rejoice that I was able to enjoy water's sacramental splendor, last month.
--Ben Keckler
09.08.10
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, September 7
Another Musing about Water/Waterfalls
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Last year I was privileged to see a part of the world I’d never visited. We vacationed in the Canadian Rockies. We spent time in Glacier National Park in Montana, as well. The trip included visits to Calgary, Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff. We were also privileged to spend time on the Columbia Icefields. The list of experiences was and still is rather phenomenal.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as we spent time at Athabasca Falls! The passage for the falls is quite narrow, especially compared with the wide river behind it filled with the melted snows from the mountains. The scene was filled with energy as rushing water made its way through the passage to a wide river bottom below. It is as though I can still hear and feel the power of the moment months later. I concur with the ancient song of praise, “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I am into the daily routine of caregiving still recalling a memorable vacation from before and a long, relaxing weekend just ended. I am trusting that we can bathe patients in a waterfall of healing graces that brings them to a better place. Compassionate caregiving gives patients and families the opportunity to experience the majesty and power of God.
A prayer: Holy One, may our simple acts of caregiving bring the restoring, healing touch that patients and their families need. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.07.10
“O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
--A song of praise, Psalm 8
Last year I was privileged to see a part of the world I’d never visited. We vacationed in the Canadian Rockies. We spent time in Glacier National Park in Montana, as well. The trip included visits to Calgary, Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff. We were also privileged to spend time on the Columbia Icefields. The list of experiences was and still is rather phenomenal.
Majestic doesn’t seem a powerful enough description for the awe I felt as we spent time at Athabasca Falls! The passage for the falls is quite narrow, especially compared with the wide river behind it filled with the melted snows from the mountains. The scene was filled with energy as rushing water made its way through the passage to a wide river bottom below. It is as though I can still hear and feel the power of the moment months later. I concur with the ancient song of praise, “O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Today I am into the daily routine of caregiving still recalling a memorable vacation from before and a long, relaxing weekend just ended. I am trusting that we can bathe patients in a waterfall of healing graces that brings them to a better place. Compassionate caregiving gives patients and families the opportunity to experience the majesty and power of God.
A prayer: Holy One, may our simple acts of caregiving bring the restoring, healing touch that patients and their families need. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.07.10
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