The Seasons in our Lives
“But for me it is good to be near God;
I have made the Lord God my refuge,
to tell of all God’s works.”
--Psalm 73:28
How do you describe the story of your life? Within your “life-story” you can find that you are experiencing various seasons all the time. For example, examine the theme of loss. Can you identify a loss? If so, what season is it—spring, summer, fall or winter? Or examine the theme of relationships (either human or divine). What season are you experiencing in relationships that are significant to you?
The Psalmist today is probably at a spring or summertime experience. There is energy in this verse, a vibrant feeling in the tone of the words. What is going on in your life-song? Are you listening to your life? Maybe nature’s springtime offers you an ideal time to reflect upon the goodness of the day.
“And time remembered is grief forgotten
And frosts are slain and flowers begotten,
And in the green underwood and cover
Blossom by blossom the spring begins.”
--Algernon Charles Swinburne
Have a nice springtime weekend as you examine the themes of your life and their seasons.
--Ben Keckler
04.30.10
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 29
Infused with Hope
“Hope does not disappoint us,
because God’s love has been poured into our hearts
through the Spirit that has been given to us.”
--From a Letter to believers in Rome
What happens when difficult news comes our way? How do we respond? When change comes at us – and it seems almost non-stop these days – it’s fair to say that life is not as easy as we would like, that challenges are more the standard, that pain is more frequent than we desire. When these times come our way try spending some moments in quiet reflection, allowing hope to infuse the uncomfortable feelings that are growing in our souls.
A number of helpful observations have been preserved over the years about hope. Obviously the quote from Scriptures is a good one. I particularly like the quote from President Washington, especially in these health care reform days. Hopefully you will find some of these helpful as well:
“If you do not hope, you will not find what lies beyond your hopes.”
--Clement of Alexandria
“Hope is the physician of every misery.”
--An Irish Proverb
“There never was night that had no morn.”
--Dinah Maria Mulock Craik
“My heart leaps when I behold a rainbow in the sky.”
--William Wordsworth
“We must never despair; our situation has been compromised before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again.”
--George Washington
A prayer: Infuse me with hope today, especially in the things that feel so hopeless.
--Ben Keckler
04.29.10
“Hope does not disappoint us,
because God’s love has been poured into our hearts
through the Spirit that has been given to us.”
--From a Letter to believers in Rome
What happens when difficult news comes our way? How do we respond? When change comes at us – and it seems almost non-stop these days – it’s fair to say that life is not as easy as we would like, that challenges are more the standard, that pain is more frequent than we desire. When these times come our way try spending some moments in quiet reflection, allowing hope to infuse the uncomfortable feelings that are growing in our souls.
A number of helpful observations have been preserved over the years about hope. Obviously the quote from Scriptures is a good one. I particularly like the quote from President Washington, especially in these health care reform days. Hopefully you will find some of these helpful as well:
“If you do not hope, you will not find what lies beyond your hopes.”
--Clement of Alexandria
“Hope is the physician of every misery.”
--An Irish Proverb
“There never was night that had no morn.”
--Dinah Maria Mulock Craik
“My heart leaps when I behold a rainbow in the sky.”
--William Wordsworth
“We must never despair; our situation has been compromised before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again.”
--George Washington
A prayer: Infuse me with hope today, especially in the things that feel so hopeless.
--Ben Keckler
04.29.10
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 28
Our Garden of Eden
“The Lord God took the man
and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. ”
--From the Creation stories of Genesis
The weekend was filled with natural beauty. The asparagus grew, the perennials continued to grow and see if the feeling of springtime is genuine. Here in the Indianapolis area those with allergies used up more Kleenex than they wanted to and hopefully are feeling some relief after some much needed rainfall. It was good to get out in the yard and experience the rejuvenation of Mother Earth. How wonderful it is to have our little “Gardens of Eden” to work and care for!
The rhythm of life in our chosen workplaces can be another garden spot. I'm privileged to work in a place where associates commit themselves day after day to care for patients needing the care that can bring them to a better place. May the Creator who empowers us bless you in your workplace.
A prayer: Thanks to you, O God, for the opportunity to work and care for your garden.
--Ben Keckler
04.28.10
“The Lord God took the man
and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. ”
--From the Creation stories of Genesis
The weekend was filled with natural beauty. The asparagus grew, the perennials continued to grow and see if the feeling of springtime is genuine. Here in the Indianapolis area those with allergies used up more Kleenex than they wanted to and hopefully are feeling some relief after some much needed rainfall. It was good to get out in the yard and experience the rejuvenation of Mother Earth. How wonderful it is to have our little “Gardens of Eden” to work and care for!
The rhythm of life in our chosen workplaces can be another garden spot. I'm privileged to work in a place where associates commit themselves day after day to care for patients needing the care that can bring them to a better place. May the Creator who empowers us bless you in your workplace.
A prayer: Thanks to you, O God, for the opportunity to work and care for your garden.
--Ben Keckler
04.28.10
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 27
Our Common Humanity
“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live.”
Written within the soul of humanity are numerous songs of faith to the divine. Today we take a moment to remember the common humanity we share with billions-- billions who have gone before us and with billions yet to be born. To help us in our praying today, we turn to a prayer from the Aztec Indians:
“Mother of gods, father of gods, Ancient God,
A mere appendage of this realm, a common man, has come.
He/she comes crying, he/she comes in sadness, he/she comes with guilt.
Perhaps he/she has slipped, perhaps he/she has stumbled
Perhaps he/she has touched the bird of evil, the spider’s web, the tuft of thorns:
It wounds his/her heart, it troubles him/her.
“Master, Lord, ever present, ever near,
Take the pain from him, from her: hear the pain of this common man.”
A prayer: God be with me as I interact with others today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.27.10
“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live.”
Written within the soul of humanity are numerous songs of faith to the divine. Today we take a moment to remember the common humanity we share with billions-- billions who have gone before us and with billions yet to be born. To help us in our praying today, we turn to a prayer from the Aztec Indians:
“Mother of gods, father of gods, Ancient God,
A mere appendage of this realm, a common man, has come.
He/she comes crying, he/she comes in sadness, he/she comes with guilt.
Perhaps he/she has slipped, perhaps he/she has stumbled
Perhaps he/she has touched the bird of evil, the spider’s web, the tuft of thorns:
It wounds his/her heart, it troubles him/her.
“Master, Lord, ever present, ever near,
Take the pain from him, from her: hear the pain of this common man.”
A prayer: God be with me as I interact with others today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.27.10
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 26
A Hospital Experience
“When God gives anyone wealth and possessions
and enables that person to enjoy them,
to accept their lot and be happy in their work—
this is a gift of God.”
--A wisdom saying (Ecc. 5:19)
I'm away from the hospital today remembering that 35 years ago today I followed doctor's orders and went to the hospital. Early in the morning on April 26, 1975, Dr. Perrin said, “Reverend, it is a bright sunny day out there, take your time and have a safe drive to the hospital. Maybe by tonight you will be a daddy.” At about 10:00 p.m. Kevin arrived weighing 5 pounds, 13 ounces. The hospital stay was extended a few more days than anticipated due to some complications that, in the scope of things, were significant but minor. Today Kevin is a healthy young man, married, father of two who enjoys life. He is happy in his work, happy in his role as a volunteer firefighter and is able to enjoy the wealth and possessions that have come his way. I agree with the wisdom writer. Kevin is truly a gift of God experiencing God’s gifts for him.
I still remember the work of the child birth team. We had a good hospital experience three and a half decades ago. The people who helped us through those moments impressed me. Today in your work you have an opportunity to treat people better. May your compassionate touch bless the peoples' lives.
A prayer: God be with us today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04-26-10
“When God gives anyone wealth and possessions
and enables that person to enjoy them,
to accept their lot and be happy in their work—
this is a gift of God.”
--A wisdom saying (Ecc. 5:19)
I'm away from the hospital today remembering that 35 years ago today I followed doctor's orders and went to the hospital. Early in the morning on April 26, 1975, Dr. Perrin said, “Reverend, it is a bright sunny day out there, take your time and have a safe drive to the hospital. Maybe by tonight you will be a daddy.” At about 10:00 p.m. Kevin arrived weighing 5 pounds, 13 ounces. The hospital stay was extended a few more days than anticipated due to some complications that, in the scope of things, were significant but minor. Today Kevin is a healthy young man, married, father of two who enjoys life. He is happy in his work, happy in his role as a volunteer firefighter and is able to enjoy the wealth and possessions that have come his way. I agree with the wisdom writer. Kevin is truly a gift of God experiencing God’s gifts for him.
I still remember the work of the child birth team. We had a good hospital experience three and a half decades ago. The people who helped us through those moments impressed me. Today in your work you have an opportunity to treat people better. May your compassionate touch bless the peoples' lives.
A prayer: God be with us today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04-26-10
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 23
Concluding a Week About Listening
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we have used a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled “I Need to Listen” as a focal point for our devotional life. The writer of the above Psalm verses desired that God hear his/her prayers. Rev. Phifer’s prayer is asking God to empower him to be a better listener. The two requests can be drawn together. To finish this week of devotions on becoming a better listener, we meditate on the concluding section of Rev. Phifer’s prayer.
“Steady me, O God, as a listener.
And when I speak, make me careful lest I use words as weapons
and language as a severing sword.
Enable me to sort out what I hear and not be thrown off balance
when the tongue of another is careless.
When prejudice and passion weigh the words I hear with divisiveness and conflict,
give me sense enough to reject them.
Grant me judgment and common sense to cut through words
that evade and distort lest I be misled.
Steady me, O Lord, as I learn to listen. Amen.”
Divine presence and help is near. Have a good day and weekend listening to the voice within and the voices of those around you.
--Ben Keckler
04.23.10
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we have used a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled “I Need to Listen” as a focal point for our devotional life. The writer of the above Psalm verses desired that God hear his/her prayers. Rev. Phifer’s prayer is asking God to empower him to be a better listener. The two requests can be drawn together. To finish this week of devotions on becoming a better listener, we meditate on the concluding section of Rev. Phifer’s prayer.
“Steady me, O God, as a listener.
And when I speak, make me careful lest I use words as weapons
and language as a severing sword.
Enable me to sort out what I hear and not be thrown off balance
when the tongue of another is careless.
When prejudice and passion weigh the words I hear with divisiveness and conflict,
give me sense enough to reject them.
Grant me judgment and common sense to cut through words
that evade and distort lest I be misled.
Steady me, O Lord, as I learn to listen. Amen.”
Divine presence and help is near. Have a good day and weekend listening to the voice within and the voices of those around you.
--Ben Keckler
04.23.10
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 22
Becoming a Better Listener
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
“I Need to Listen” is the title of a prayer by Kenneth Phifer. This week we are praying through this prayer, trying to become better listeners. The verses of the Psalm are from a person desiring that God hear his/her prayers. Rev. Phifer’s prayer is asking for God to empower him to be a better listener. The two themes can be drawn together. Part of today’s section of the prayer turns within, listening to ourselves.
“Help me to listen to myself,
to still small voices of conscience, to whispers of faith,
and to the soft inner humming of hope.
Help me to learn to trust myself more than I do,
trust myself not because I am wise and good,
but because I am loved and wanted.
“Help me to listen to the stranger who may be an angel is disguise,
to the friend who may be lonely and lost.
Help me to listen to the angry and the outraged
who may be saying to me words I need to hear.”
Divine presence and help is near. As we see Dr. Phifer’s requests simply stated, may each of us find our conversation with God a time of simply identifying the help we need to maintain the quiet center of our lives. A listening Creator enables us to be better listeners.
Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.22.10
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
“I Need to Listen” is the title of a prayer by Kenneth Phifer. This week we are praying through this prayer, trying to become better listeners. The verses of the Psalm are from a person desiring that God hear his/her prayers. Rev. Phifer’s prayer is asking for God to empower him to be a better listener. The two themes can be drawn together. Part of today’s section of the prayer turns within, listening to ourselves.
“Help me to listen to myself,
to still small voices of conscience, to whispers of faith,
and to the soft inner humming of hope.
Help me to learn to trust myself more than I do,
trust myself not because I am wise and good,
but because I am loved and wanted.
“Help me to listen to the stranger who may be an angel is disguise,
to the friend who may be lonely and lost.
Help me to listen to the angry and the outraged
who may be saying to me words I need to hear.”
Divine presence and help is near. As we see Dr. Phifer’s requests simply stated, may each of us find our conversation with God a time of simply identifying the help we need to maintain the quiet center of our lives. A listening Creator enables us to be better listeners.
Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.22.10
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 21
Listening to Others
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
We continue praying through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. We have prayed the singing and sobbing world sections. Today we move to the shouting world. Take time this week seeking to become better listeners to all the voices in the world.
“Lord, this is a shouting world.
There are voices of rage and of protest.
There are voices of defiance and of contempt.
How carefully I sift out the shouting, ignore the screaming.
Make me listen, O God, I pray.
You are the Creator of us all, and sometimes the voices of anger carry messages from you.
Enable me to be a listener, I ask. For in listening I may find direction and guidance.”
From the comfort and relative quiet of our surroundings we catch sound bytes of the world's people shouting at us, trying to understand us AND trying to have us understand them. I trust that we will attentively listen so that the global village can experience greater unity.
Today as I work in the hospital, the shouting will be muffled, weakened by disease. But the shouting will still be very present. Wherever you are today, listen closely to shouts and screams, sometimes softened so much that we can easily miss them. God bless you.
--Ben Keckler
04.21.10
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
We continue praying through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. We have prayed the singing and sobbing world sections. Today we move to the shouting world. Take time this week seeking to become better listeners to all the voices in the world.
“Lord, this is a shouting world.
There are voices of rage and of protest.
There are voices of defiance and of contempt.
How carefully I sift out the shouting, ignore the screaming.
Make me listen, O God, I pray.
You are the Creator of us all, and sometimes the voices of anger carry messages from you.
Enable me to be a listener, I ask. For in listening I may find direction and guidance.”
From the comfort and relative quiet of our surroundings we catch sound bytes of the world's people shouting at us, trying to understand us AND trying to have us understand them. I trust that we will attentively listen so that the global village can experience greater unity.
Today as I work in the hospital, the shouting will be muffled, weakened by disease. But the shouting will still be very present. Wherever you are today, listen closely to shouts and screams, sometimes softened so much that we can easily miss them. God bless you.
--Ben Keckler
04.21.10
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 20
More Thoughts About Listening
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are praying through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. It seems these two themes can be drawn together. Let’s take time seeking to become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“Lord, this is a sobbing world.
There are voices filled with echoes of hurt and pain everywhere.
There are voices almost choked out by tears and voices that come out of aching.
There are hollow voices, empty voices.
I would rather not hear them—
the voices of hungry children
and of sorrowing women
and of desperate men.
But they are all around me.
Enable me to hear them, I pray, and in the hearing
Be able to be near my brothers and sisters.”
Have a blessed day as you listen.
--Ben Keckler
04.20.10
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are praying through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. It seems these two themes can be drawn together. Let’s take time seeking to become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“Lord, this is a sobbing world.
There are voices filled with echoes of hurt and pain everywhere.
There are voices almost choked out by tears and voices that come out of aching.
There are hollow voices, empty voices.
I would rather not hear them—
the voices of hungry children
and of sorrowing women
and of desperate men.
But they are all around me.
Enable me to hear them, I pray, and in the hearing
Be able to be near my brothers and sisters.”
Have a blessed day as you listen.
--Ben Keckler
04.20.10
Monday, April 19, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 19
Some Thoughts About Listening
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are going to work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. It seems these two themes can be drawn together. Let’s take time this week seeking to become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“How strange it is, O Lord,
that I should feel I need to ask you to hear me.
Is it not I who need to learn to listen?
Should I not ask you to jerk me to my feet,
to snatch me out of my drowsy indifference,
to nudge me into alertness?
I am constantly surrounded by sounds I do not hear,
By voices to which I am indifferent.
“This is a singing world.
There are voices of angels
and voices of those inviting me to share in their lives.
Enable me to hear them, I pray,
and in the hearing be lifted up to gratitude
for the mystery and magic of being human.”
--Ben Keckler
04.19.10
“Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are going to work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verses of the Psalm introduce us to a person who desires that God hear his/her prayers. The theme of Rev. Phifer’s prayer is for God to empower him to be a better listener. It seems these two themes can be drawn together. Let’s take time this week seeking to become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“How strange it is, O Lord,
that I should feel I need to ask you to hear me.
Is it not I who need to learn to listen?
Should I not ask you to jerk me to my feet,
to snatch me out of my drowsy indifference,
to nudge me into alertness?
I am constantly surrounded by sounds I do not hear,
By voices to which I am indifferent.
“This is a singing world.
There are voices of angels
and voices of those inviting me to share in their lives.
Enable me to hear them, I pray,
and in the hearing be lifted up to gratitude
for the mystery and magic of being human.”
--Ben Keckler
04.19.10
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 15
Moving Toward Occupancy
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90: 17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. We are focusing our devotional life on how the rhythms of the new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Thursday. We focus on transitional work.
As we get to the end of this construction project, a number of our associates will continue working on transition. An entire team of persons will spend time working for months making sure that the transition to new space is as smooth as possible. An entire plan is in place for moving patients from their former hospital room to a new one; the number of transitional details is really quite mind-boggling! Transitional planning and work is so very important if we are going to maintain the high standards of Hendricks Regional Health.
On a personal level each of us have many transitions to face as we move through life. Transition work is tough work because it is the work of dealing with change. Ignoring transitional work can result in problems down the road. What are the transitions you are facing? Identify them. Develop a plan for dealing with them. Take action on your plan. These steps are important for good self-care. Struggle with this question today. May God surround you as you face your transitions.
--Ben Keckler
04.15.10
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90: 17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. We are focusing our devotional life on how the rhythms of the new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Thursday. We focus on transitional work.
As we get to the end of this construction project, a number of our associates will continue working on transition. An entire team of persons will spend time working for months making sure that the transition to new space is as smooth as possible. An entire plan is in place for moving patients from their former hospital room to a new one; the number of transitional details is really quite mind-boggling! Transitional planning and work is so very important if we are going to maintain the high standards of Hendricks Regional Health.
On a personal level each of us have many transitions to face as we move through life. Transition work is tough work because it is the work of dealing with change. Ignoring transitional work can result in problems down the road. What are the transitions you are facing? Identify them. Develop a plan for dealing with them. Take action on your plan. These steps are important for good self-care. Struggle with this question today. May God surround you as you face your transitions.
--Ben Keckler
04.15.10
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 14
Moving Toward Occupancy
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90:17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. We focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of the new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Wednesday. We focus on finishing work.
Over the past few weeks people have taken a stroll into the new building. In the next weeks the finishing touches will make a remarkable difference. Finishing work is detail work; finishing work gives external witness to internal character; finishing work tells an important story about an organization’s attention to detail. We will watch landscapers do their work on the exterior finishes; also, we will watch hospital associates getting things in working order on the interior. Even when the finishing work is done, it will never be fully complete. Soon we will find a detail that we didn’t dream of in the planning or structural work phases of building. We will have to find the best way to integrate that detail into what we hoped was a finished product.
Individually, we need to give attention to the finishing work in our lives. We need to realize that we can always “improve” our finished product. Reinhold Niebuhr said it this way: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.” Today is another day for some finishing work. Have a blessed day in all you do.
--Ben Keckler
04.14.10
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90:17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. We focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of the new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Wednesday. We focus on finishing work.
Over the past few weeks people have taken a stroll into the new building. In the next weeks the finishing touches will make a remarkable difference. Finishing work is detail work; finishing work gives external witness to internal character; finishing work tells an important story about an organization’s attention to detail. We will watch landscapers do their work on the exterior finishes; also, we will watch hospital associates getting things in working order on the interior. Even when the finishing work is done, it will never be fully complete. Soon we will find a detail that we didn’t dream of in the planning or structural work phases of building. We will have to find the best way to integrate that detail into what we hoped was a finished product.
Individually, we need to give attention to the finishing work in our lives. We need to realize that we can always “improve” our finished product. Reinhold Niebuhr said it this way: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.” Today is another day for some finishing work. Have a blessed day in all you do.
--Ben Keckler
04.14.10
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 13
Moving Toward Occupancy
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90:17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. This week we focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of a new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Tuesday. We focus on structural work. For months and months we have entrusted the expansion of our facility to the working hands of others. For the most part, the hands of others beyond our hospital associates completed the structural work of our 205,000 square foot addition. A decision of faith was made. Work on the structure has taken a long time and the cost is far more than a few million dollars. In a few days we will have “substantial completion” of the project. Occupancy will still be a few months away as final details are completed.
In a similar way, each of us has structural work to be done so that the work of our hands will prosper. Physical structure, spiritual structure – both need our attentiveness. Just as the structural work at the hospital required lots of time and expense, it takes time and expense to have our physical and spiritual structures built on a good foundation, readied to face the storms of life.
This new work of our hands at Hendricks Regional Health is the result of hard work of laborers whose hands have formed this enormous structure. To the laborers, we offer our thanks for the work of your hands. May God prosper your work and ours in the days, weeks, months, years and decades ahead. Have a very good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.13.10
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90:17)
In just a few weeks we will open the doors of a new facility. This week we focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of a new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal life.
Today is Tuesday. We focus on structural work. For months and months we have entrusted the expansion of our facility to the working hands of others. For the most part, the hands of others beyond our hospital associates completed the structural work of our 205,000 square foot addition. A decision of faith was made. Work on the structure has taken a long time and the cost is far more than a few million dollars. In a few days we will have “substantial completion” of the project. Occupancy will still be a few months away as final details are completed.
In a similar way, each of us has structural work to be done so that the work of our hands will prosper. Physical structure, spiritual structure – both need our attentiveness. Just as the structural work at the hospital required lots of time and expense, it takes time and expense to have our physical and spiritual structures built on a good foundation, readied to face the storms of life.
This new work of our hands at Hendricks Regional Health is the result of hard work of laborers whose hands have formed this enormous structure. To the laborers, we offer our thanks for the work of your hands. May God prosper your work and ours in the days, weeks, months, years and decades ahead. Have a very good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.13.10
Monday, April 12, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 12
Moving Toward Occupancy
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90: 17)
In just a few weeks Hendricks Regional Health will open the doors of a new facility. This week I want to focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of a new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal lives.
Today is Monday. We focus on plans. Long before this $61 million construction project saw the first bit of earth moved, MANY groups of people were engaged in the planning process. Planning is difficult work; I've learned that through personal experience with a number of construction projects. Scores and scores of questions need to be studied and answered with vision for an undetermined future. Funding needs to be examined and reexamined. Meetings for clarification seem to be unending. Refining the plan for final drawings is tedious. The final drawings are “completed” but new data has called for some important reconsideration of certain parts of the plan. The site needs to be fully assessed for its suitability. And then there is … … … ….
All this before any visible site work/foundation work can even begin.
In a similar way, each of us continues to develop “our” plan for “our” life, working and refining the details. Without a well-defined plan, there will be unsettling turmoil. Planning is critical. How are you planning for your future? Are you giving the future the attention it deserves. How much are you studying and preparing for life?
This new work of our hands at our hospital is the result of hard work by visionaries who dreamed dreams and committed their energies to the necessary tasks of planning. To the planners, we offer our thanks for the work of your hands and minds. May God prosper your work and ours in the days, weeks, months, years and decades ahead. Have a very good week.
--Ben Keckler
04.12.10
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
and prosper for us the work of our hands –
O Lord, prosper the work of our hands.”
--A prayer song (Psalm 90: 17)
In just a few weeks Hendricks Regional Health will open the doors of a new facility. This week I want to focus our devotional life on how the rhythms of a new building can correlate with the rhythms of our personal lives.
Today is Monday. We focus on plans. Long before this $61 million construction project saw the first bit of earth moved, MANY groups of people were engaged in the planning process. Planning is difficult work; I've learned that through personal experience with a number of construction projects. Scores and scores of questions need to be studied and answered with vision for an undetermined future. Funding needs to be examined and reexamined. Meetings for clarification seem to be unending. Refining the plan for final drawings is tedious. The final drawings are “completed” but new data has called for some important reconsideration of certain parts of the plan. The site needs to be fully assessed for its suitability. And then there is … … … ….
All this before any visible site work/foundation work can even begin.
In a similar way, each of us continues to develop “our” plan for “our” life, working and refining the details. Without a well-defined plan, there will be unsettling turmoil. Planning is critical. How are you planning for your future? Are you giving the future the attention it deserves. How much are you studying and preparing for life?
This new work of our hands at our hospital is the result of hard work by visionaries who dreamed dreams and committed their energies to the necessary tasks of planning. To the planners, we offer our thanks for the work of your hands and minds. May God prosper your work and ours in the days, weeks, months, years and decades ahead. Have a very good week.
--Ben Keckler
04.12.10
Friday, April 9, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 9
A Joyful Noise
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.”
--From Psalm 100
In some ways it is pretty difficult to make a joyful noise when there is so much chaos in the world. Yet, as springtime visits us again it can be easier to make a joyful noise to God. I find the following prayer by Mary de LaValette to be filled with joy. I hope you enjoy it, too!
“Blessed are the animals for they shall lead us back to our lost innocence.
Blessed are the great whales for their vast intelligence is peaceful.
Blessed is the eagle for he is the king of birds.
Blessed is the cow for she is the ancient symbol of Peace.
Blessed is the little mouse who seeks shelter from the cold.
Blessed are the otters for their playfulness is without guile.
Blessed are all wild, free things for they live in harmony with their Creator.
Blessed are those animals who are part of our families for they bind us to the rest of Creation.
And blessed be Humankind who has gone so far astray.
Blessed is the Creation in its magnificence for the Spirit dwells in every living thing.
And is indivisible.”
Enjoy the budding of creation as your weekend unfolds, especially enjoy the animals.
Prayer: This is your world, O God. We join with creation making a joyful noise to you.
--Ben Keckler
04.09.10
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.”
--From Psalm 100
In some ways it is pretty difficult to make a joyful noise when there is so much chaos in the world. Yet, as springtime visits us again it can be easier to make a joyful noise to God. I find the following prayer by Mary de LaValette to be filled with joy. I hope you enjoy it, too!
“Blessed are the animals for they shall lead us back to our lost innocence.
Blessed are the great whales for their vast intelligence is peaceful.
Blessed is the eagle for he is the king of birds.
Blessed is the cow for she is the ancient symbol of Peace.
Blessed is the little mouse who seeks shelter from the cold.
Blessed are the otters for their playfulness is without guile.
Blessed are all wild, free things for they live in harmony with their Creator.
Blessed are those animals who are part of our families for they bind us to the rest of Creation.
And blessed be Humankind who has gone so far astray.
Blessed is the Creation in its magnificence for the Spirit dwells in every living thing.
And is indivisible.”
Enjoy the budding of creation as your weekend unfolds, especially enjoy the animals.
Prayer: This is your world, O God. We join with creation making a joyful noise to you.
--Ben Keckler
04.09.10
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 8
Peace and My Life
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you.”
--Jesus, as remembered by John (14:27)
Scenic beauty abounds in the Shenandoah Valley. Have you ever traveled through the area where the Shenandoah Indian tribe made their home? Across the entire country, our Native American brothers and sisters were wise people.
“It is no longer good enough to cry peace,
we must act peace,
live peace
and live in peace.”
--Ancient Indian Proverb
These words are powerful! They suggest we have talked enough, that we have gone around and around about the desire for peace-filled times. Recently I participated in a continuing education course and the theme was simply:
“So, what are YOU going to do about it?”
The proverb and the question combined with the scripture verse for today, pose a challenge for responsible living in a chaotic world. There are ample examples suggesting that the time for talking about peace needs to be reflected in our actions immediately.
The three introspective questions for today could be:
Am I acting peace?
Am I living peace?
Am I living in peace?
Prayer: Amid the talk, may my walk reflect the way of peace. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.08.10
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you.”
--Jesus, as remembered by John (14:27)
Scenic beauty abounds in the Shenandoah Valley. Have you ever traveled through the area where the Shenandoah Indian tribe made their home? Across the entire country, our Native American brothers and sisters were wise people.
“It is no longer good enough to cry peace,
we must act peace,
live peace
and live in peace.”
--Ancient Indian Proverb
These words are powerful! They suggest we have talked enough, that we have gone around and around about the desire for peace-filled times. Recently I participated in a continuing education course and the theme was simply:
“So, what are YOU going to do about it?”
The proverb and the question combined with the scripture verse for today, pose a challenge for responsible living in a chaotic world. There are ample examples suggesting that the time for talking about peace needs to be reflected in our actions immediately.
The three introspective questions for today could be:
Am I acting peace?
Am I living peace?
Am I living in peace?
Prayer: Amid the talk, may my walk reflect the way of peace. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.08.10
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 7
Joy! Midweek Reflections
“I have told you this, so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”--Jesus, as remembered by John (15:11)
There is so much happening in our world that can rob us of joy. Here in the hospital we treat sickness and disease in people experiencing joyless, painful times. In this global village, sad stories about natural disasters and wars decorate the headlines, a saga that is not just decades old, but centuries old.
This verse of Scripture says that complete joy, ecstasy if you will, is a possibility; not just for the mystic within us, but a possibility for all who trust the teachings of Jesus. Sounds almost unfathomable, doesn’t it?
“Somehow joy is much harder to express than sadness. It seems that we have more words for sickness than for health, more for abnormal conditions than for normal conditions. Those who live joy-filled lives are always moving away from rigidly fixed situations and exploring new, unmapped dimensions of reality. In other words, 'Joy is always new!' Whereas there can be old pain, old grief, and old sorrow, there can be no old joy. Old joy is not joy! Joy is always connected with movement, renewal, rebirth, change – in short, with life.” (Quotes are from Lifesigns, Henri Nouwen, p. 85-88)
It’s mid-week!! I wish for you a day that has many moments of joy! May springtime be alive within you, filling you with joy, complete joy and contentment.
Prayer: God of joy, may I find you in new ways—small or great. Be before me, beneath me, over me, behind me, within me. In your name, Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.07.10
“I have told you this, so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”--Jesus, as remembered by John (15:11)
There is so much happening in our world that can rob us of joy. Here in the hospital we treat sickness and disease in people experiencing joyless, painful times. In this global village, sad stories about natural disasters and wars decorate the headlines, a saga that is not just decades old, but centuries old.
This verse of Scripture says that complete joy, ecstasy if you will, is a possibility; not just for the mystic within us, but a possibility for all who trust the teachings of Jesus. Sounds almost unfathomable, doesn’t it?
“Somehow joy is much harder to express than sadness. It seems that we have more words for sickness than for health, more for abnormal conditions than for normal conditions. Those who live joy-filled lives are always moving away from rigidly fixed situations and exploring new, unmapped dimensions of reality. In other words, 'Joy is always new!' Whereas there can be old pain, old grief, and old sorrow, there can be no old joy. Old joy is not joy! Joy is always connected with movement, renewal, rebirth, change – in short, with life.” (Quotes are from Lifesigns, Henri Nouwen, p. 85-88)
It’s mid-week!! I wish for you a day that has many moments of joy! May springtime be alive within you, filling you with joy, complete joy and contentment.
Prayer: God of joy, may I find you in new ways—small or great. Be before me, beneath me, over me, behind me, within me. In your name, Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.07.10
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 6
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Frederick Buechner is an enjoyable, thoughtful writer. The book, Listening to Your Life, a daily meditation book, is filled with meaningful insights. In one April meditation he suggests that life itself is trying to tell us something.
“The alphabet of grace is full of sibilants—
sounds that can’t be shouted, but only whispered:
the sounds of bumblebees and wind,
of whitecaps hissing up flat over the glittering sand,
of crowds hushed in vast and vaulted places,
the sound of your own breathing.
“The trees, the budding flowers, the rhythm of waking, work and sleeping—all are trying to tell us something.”
The meditation goes on and Buechner continues to use words that paint a picture about the rhythm of life. He concludes with these brief words:
“How do I happen to believe in God?
I will give one more answer, which can be stated briefly.
Writing novels, I got into the habit of looking for plots.
After awhile, I began to suspect that my own life had a plot.
And after awhile more, I began to suspect that life itself has a plot.”
Seems like Buechner is in touch with something! It really isn’t new. In fact, Buechner seems to be using his words to tell the story of Psalm 104. Why not take a minute and read that Psalm today.
--Ben Keckler
04.06.10
Frederick Buechner is an enjoyable, thoughtful writer. The book, Listening to Your Life, a daily meditation book, is filled with meaningful insights. In one April meditation he suggests that life itself is trying to tell us something.
“The alphabet of grace is full of sibilants—
sounds that can’t be shouted, but only whispered:
the sounds of bumblebees and wind,
of whitecaps hissing up flat over the glittering sand,
of crowds hushed in vast and vaulted places,
the sound of your own breathing.
“The trees, the budding flowers, the rhythm of waking, work and sleeping—all are trying to tell us something.”
The meditation goes on and Buechner continues to use words that paint a picture about the rhythm of life. He concludes with these brief words:
“How do I happen to believe in God?
I will give one more answer, which can be stated briefly.
Writing novels, I got into the habit of looking for plots.
After awhile, I began to suspect that my own life had a plot.
And after awhile more, I began to suspect that life itself has a plot.”
Seems like Buechner is in touch with something! It really isn’t new. In fact, Buechner seems to be using his words to tell the story of Psalm 104. Why not take a minute and read that Psalm today.
--Ben Keckler
04.06.10
Monday, April 5, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 5
A Prayer from Mother Teresa
Thirty years ago Malcolm Muggeridge was inspired to write a book about the work of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Something Beautiful for God includes her daily prayer for the Children’s Home in Calcutta.
“Jesus My Patient”
“Dearest Lord,
“May I see you today and every day in the person of your sick, and while nursing them, minister unto you.
“Though you hide yourself behind the unattractive disguise of the irritable, the exacting, the unreasonable, may I still recognize you, and say: ‘Jesus, my patient, how sweet it is to serve you.’
“Lord, give me this seeing faith, then my work will never be monotonous. I will ever find joy in humoring the fancies and gratifying the wishes of all poor sufferers.
“O beloved sick, how doubly dear you are to me, when you personify Christ; and what a privilege is mine to be allowed to tend you.
“Sweetest Lord, make me appreciative of the dignity of my high vocation, and its many responsibilities. Never permit me to disgrace it by giving way to coldness, unkindness or impatience.
“And, O God, while you are Jesus, my patient, deign also to be to me a patient Jesus, bearing with my faults, looking only to my intention, which is to love and serve you in the person of each of your sick.
“Lord, increase my faith; bless my efforts and work, now and forevermore. Amen.”
Note: Seems to me this prayer is appropriate, with some possible adaptations, across the lines of faith traditions. Have a blessed day in your caregiving and work.
--Ben Keckler
04.05.10
Thirty years ago Malcolm Muggeridge was inspired to write a book about the work of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Something Beautiful for God includes her daily prayer for the Children’s Home in Calcutta.
“Jesus My Patient”
“Dearest Lord,
“May I see you today and every day in the person of your sick, and while nursing them, minister unto you.
“Though you hide yourself behind the unattractive disguise of the irritable, the exacting, the unreasonable, may I still recognize you, and say: ‘Jesus, my patient, how sweet it is to serve you.’
“Lord, give me this seeing faith, then my work will never be monotonous. I will ever find joy in humoring the fancies and gratifying the wishes of all poor sufferers.
“O beloved sick, how doubly dear you are to me, when you personify Christ; and what a privilege is mine to be allowed to tend you.
“Sweetest Lord, make me appreciative of the dignity of my high vocation, and its many responsibilities. Never permit me to disgrace it by giving way to coldness, unkindness or impatience.
“And, O God, while you are Jesus, my patient, deign also to be to me a patient Jesus, bearing with my faults, looking only to my intention, which is to love and serve you in the person of each of your sick.
“Lord, increase my faith; bless my efforts and work, now and forevermore. Amen.”
Note: Seems to me this prayer is appropriate, with some possible adaptations, across the lines of faith traditions. Have a blessed day in your caregiving and work.
--Ben Keckler
04.05.10
Friday, April 2, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 2
To Spend Time with Seeds
“O magnify the Lord with me,
let us exalt God’s name together.”
--A request to sing of God’s goodness
Thank you for letting me share some of my “seed planting” stories with you this week. I close this week's devotions with a hymn by contemporary hymn writer, Natalie Sleeth. She is a gifted composer. This hymn expresses why I believe it is important for every person to spend time with seeds and the soil; to spend time with the rebirth of nature; to spend time in silence with the rhythms of life, death and LIFE.
“In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed an apple tree;
In cocoons, a hidden promise; butterflies will soon be free!
In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
“There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;
There’s a dawn in every darkness, bringing hope to you and me.
From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
“In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity,
In our doubt there is believing, in our life eternity.
In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.”
• Today is Friday. The rhythm of life goes on. Absorb all the things that God is offering to you this spring. Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
04.02.10
“O magnify the Lord with me,
let us exalt God’s name together.”
--A request to sing of God’s goodness
Thank you for letting me share some of my “seed planting” stories with you this week. I close this week's devotions with a hymn by contemporary hymn writer, Natalie Sleeth. She is a gifted composer. This hymn expresses why I believe it is important for every person to spend time with seeds and the soil; to spend time with the rebirth of nature; to spend time in silence with the rhythms of life, death and LIFE.
“In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed an apple tree;
In cocoons, a hidden promise; butterflies will soon be free!
In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
“There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;
There’s a dawn in every darkness, bringing hope to you and me.
From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
“In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity,
In our doubt there is believing, in our life eternity.
In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,
Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.”
• Today is Friday. The rhythm of life goes on. Absorb all the things that God is offering to you this spring. Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
04.02.10
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 1
Zinnias
“O magnify the Lord with me,
let us exalt God’s name together.”
--A request to sing of God’s goodness
A couple weeks ago, I started planting flower seeds. Most of them are from our flowers last year. Some of them have quite a history, connecting us with special people in our lives.
• Today the story of the Zinnia seeds. We decided to buy some new seeds for our zinnia bed. These zinnias don’t have much of a story that connects with the past except that Grandma loved zinnias which is enough of a reason to plant them. I didn't have good luck with the first planting so I’m hopeful the second round provides some hearty plants for outdoor work in a few weeks.
• The zinnias connect us with the known and unknown of our tomorrows. We have some idea what to expect -- we’ve grown zinnias in the past and the packet told us how tall they would be. What we don’t know is what color each of these plants will be. The zinnia is a lot like life. The rhythm of life goes on daily, but we can’t be certain about the rhythms tomorrow will present.
• Today is Thursday. Receive life as it comes to you today, regardless of the exact colors/challenges you experience. Know that a Holy God accompanies you and join me in calling on the name of the Lord.
--Ben Keckler
04.01.10
“O magnify the Lord with me,
let us exalt God’s name together.”
--A request to sing of God’s goodness
A couple weeks ago, I started planting flower seeds. Most of them are from our flowers last year. Some of them have quite a history, connecting us with special people in our lives.
• Today the story of the Zinnia seeds. We decided to buy some new seeds for our zinnia bed. These zinnias don’t have much of a story that connects with the past except that Grandma loved zinnias which is enough of a reason to plant them. I didn't have good luck with the first planting so I’m hopeful the second round provides some hearty plants for outdoor work in a few weeks.
• The zinnias connect us with the known and unknown of our tomorrows. We have some idea what to expect -- we’ve grown zinnias in the past and the packet told us how tall they would be. What we don’t know is what color each of these plants will be. The zinnia is a lot like life. The rhythm of life goes on daily, but we can’t be certain about the rhythms tomorrow will present.
• Today is Thursday. Receive life as it comes to you today, regardless of the exact colors/challenges you experience. Know that a Holy God accompanies you and join me in calling on the name of the Lord.
--Ben Keckler
04.01.10
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