Tuesday on Friday
“In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust;
I am not afraid; what can flesh do to me?” --Psalm 56:1
It is Friday and my soul is feeling that it might be a good day to revisit the book Tuesdays with Morrie. From time to time excerpts from Morrie’s life and the words of Sacred Scripture have served as a means for deepening my journey inward. Today we find Morrie in the final stages of ALS. His interviewer, Mitch Albom, listens as his dying professor spends some time on “the ultimate questions, the ones that won’t go away.”
“That’s the thing, you see. Once you get your fingers
on the important questions, you can’t turn away from them.”
Mitch asks, ‘And which are the important questions?’
The professor continues, ‘As I see it, they have to do with love, responsibility, spirituality, awareness. And if I were healthy today,
those would still be my issues. They should have been all along.’”
Take time with the ultimate values both in your work and in your relationships. As we each do this, deep praise will rise up from within our souls. Enjoy your weekend and spend time formulating your important questions in the areas that Morrie suggested.
A prayer: God of my life and all life, guide me as I struggle to reflect the important questions throughout the weekend.
--Ben Keckler
04.29.11
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 28
Creation’s Alive
“Praise God, from the earth,
mountains and all hills, fruit trees and cedars!”
--Psalm 148, selected verses
These are a wonderful days to spend time with creation. The seeds planted several weeks ago are now rooted and crying for more soil where they can continue their journey toward that time of blossoming. When their cry is answered, they will quickly stand up tall and keep on their course. These small transplants seem to understand the words of the Psalmist and are offering their praise to the Creator.
As this week continues to unfold, let us live life in praise of God. May our prayers echo the sentiments Sedonia Cahill offers in her prayer of thanksgiving:
“I send prayers of gratitude to all that has given of itself on this day.
The strong beans, and the hardy grains,
The beautiful leafy green plants and the sweet juicy fruits.
I thank the sun that warmed and vitalized them, just as it does me,
And the earth that held and nourished them, as it does me,
And the waters that bathed and refreshed them, as they do me.
I thank the fire that transformed them,
Just as I wish to be transformed by the fires of Spirit.
I thank the hands that grew and prepared my food,
Just as I thank all those that have touched me in so many ways.
With thanksgiving to the Great God of life,
I send my prayers of gratitude today.”
--Ben Keckler
04.28.11
“Praise God, from the earth,
mountains and all hills, fruit trees and cedars!”
--Psalm 148, selected verses
These are a wonderful days to spend time with creation. The seeds planted several weeks ago are now rooted and crying for more soil where they can continue their journey toward that time of blossoming. When their cry is answered, they will quickly stand up tall and keep on their course. These small transplants seem to understand the words of the Psalmist and are offering their praise to the Creator.
As this week continues to unfold, let us live life in praise of God. May our prayers echo the sentiments Sedonia Cahill offers in her prayer of thanksgiving:
“I send prayers of gratitude to all that has given of itself on this day.
The strong beans, and the hardy grains,
The beautiful leafy green plants and the sweet juicy fruits.
I thank the sun that warmed and vitalized them, just as it does me,
And the earth that held and nourished them, as it does me,
And the waters that bathed and refreshed them, as they do me.
I thank the fire that transformed them,
Just as I wish to be transformed by the fires of Spirit.
I thank the hands that grew and prepared my food,
Just as I thank all those that have touched me in so many ways.
With thanksgiving to the Great God of life,
I send my prayers of gratitude today.”
--Ben Keckler
04.28.11
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 27
Our Common Humanity
“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live.”
Written within the soul of humanity is a song of faith to the divine. Today we take a moment to remember the common humanity we share with billions, with billions who have gone before us and with billions yet to be born throughout this global village. 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 person, 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 person.”
A prayer: God be with me as I interact with others today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.27.11
“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live.”
Written within the soul of humanity is a song of faith to the divine. Today we take a moment to remember the common humanity we share with billions, with billions who have gone before us and with billions yet to be born throughout this global village. 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 person, 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 person.”
A prayer: God be with me as I interact with others today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.27.11
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, 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)
Thirty-six years ago at about 7 AM we arrived at Lutheran hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Our household was about to have a memorable hospital experience. For the next 15 hours I sat with my wife as she went through the pains of birthing our 5 pound, 13 ounce baby boy. 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 our son is a healthy young man, married, father of two children and enjoying 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. He 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 more than three decades ago. The people who helped us through that important moment in life impressed me. Today caregivers will have opportunities to help people as they experience hospitalizations for all sorts of health concerns. May each of us extend compassionate touches to those around.
A prayer: God be with us today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.26.11
“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)
Thirty-six years ago at about 7 AM we arrived at Lutheran hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Our household was about to have a memorable hospital experience. For the next 15 hours I sat with my wife as she went through the pains of birthing our 5 pound, 13 ounce baby boy. 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 our son is a healthy young man, married, father of two children and enjoying 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. He 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 more than three decades ago. The people who helped us through that important moment in life impressed me. Today caregivers will have opportunities to help people as they experience hospitalizations for all sorts of health concerns. May each of us extend compassionate touches to those around.
A prayer: God be with us today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.26.11
Monday, April 25, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 25
A Process Called Waiting
“Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.”
--Psalm 25: 5
This is an interesting verse as we begin a new week. Are we to wait around all day for God to lead us? How does God lead us into truth? How can we be taught without the voice of a teacher?
Spiritual directors, regardless of their faith tradition, remind us that every individual needs to cultivate a sense of awareness within. It is possible to be “waiting” while we are working on a given task. It is possible to be taught without a voice speaking audible tones. It is possible to be led even when you are “on task” with something that needs to be done.
Today provides each of us with opportunities to develop awareness of “the still small voice” that prompts us. John A. Shedd once said, “Opportunities are seldom labeled.” Enjoy your day of work. There is no need to just “sit around and wait”; needs and opportunities abound, especially as we cultivate awareness. Have a blessed day!
A prayer: Bless the work of my hands this day as I continue to develop a deeper awareness of your truth, O God. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.25.11
“Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.”
--Psalm 25: 5
This is an interesting verse as we begin a new week. Are we to wait around all day for God to lead us? How does God lead us into truth? How can we be taught without the voice of a teacher?
Spiritual directors, regardless of their faith tradition, remind us that every individual needs to cultivate a sense of awareness within. It is possible to be “waiting” while we are working on a given task. It is possible to be taught without a voice speaking audible tones. It is possible to be led even when you are “on task” with something that needs to be done.
Today provides each of us with opportunities to develop awareness of “the still small voice” that prompts us. John A. Shedd once said, “Opportunities are seldom labeled.” Enjoy your day of work. There is no need to just “sit around and wait”; needs and opportunities abound, especially as we cultivate awareness. Have a blessed day!
A prayer: Bless the work of my hands this day as I continue to develop a deeper awareness of your truth, O God. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.25.11
Friday, April 22, 2011
Daily Devotion-- April 22, 2011
Prayer of Thanksgiving
This week has seen its times of struggle, times of routine, and times of celebration — to name a few of the rhythms that each of us regularly experience. Through it all the providential care of God has been present. As I listen and reflect on my life this week, I find my Friday meditation calling me to thanksgiving. A brief prayer for today:
Holy God,
All that has come to me this week has been your gift to me.
Your faithfulness has been unending, your care has been unfailing,
Your strength for each moment has been unequaled.
Thank you.
The mystery of your life within is precious
The mystery of your infinite goodness is beyond comprehension.
Thank you for mystery.
The unfolding rhythm of this new season is filled with color and fragrance.
The new season brings new challenges (like allergies).
The new season brings deepened trust in the constancy of your deep love.
Thank you for the new season.
Great and mighty God, receive this prayer of thanks today. Amen.
Hope your weekend is wonderful!
--Ben Keckler
04.22.11
This week has seen its times of struggle, times of routine, and times of celebration — to name a few of the rhythms that each of us regularly experience. Through it all the providential care of God has been present. As I listen and reflect on my life this week, I find my Friday meditation calling me to thanksgiving. A brief prayer for today:
Holy God,
All that has come to me this week has been your gift to me.
Your faithfulness has been unending, your care has been unfailing,
Your strength for each moment has been unequaled.
Thank you.
The mystery of your life within is precious
The mystery of your infinite goodness is beyond comprehension.
Thank you for mystery.
The unfolding rhythm of this new season is filled with color and fragrance.
The new season brings new challenges (like allergies).
The new season brings deepened trust in the constancy of your deep love.
Thank you for the new season.
Great and mighty God, receive this prayer of thanks today. Amen.
Hope your weekend is wonderful!
--Ben Keckler
04.22.11
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Daily Devotion-- Thursday, April 21, 2011
Transformation
A saying to consider:
“God is in love with the world and cannot keep it a secret.”
--From a statement of faith, exact source forgotten
I believe this saying! The secret is clear to me at so many levels. One of the more obvious ways is watching the world turn green in spring. Frequently I drive through Eagle Creek park on the west side of Indianapolis as I make my way to and from work. Bushes that were “dead” twigs on Monday are sporting little green leaves today! New life does spring forth all around us.
In the next few weeks I will get to witness one of the more amazing reminders about the divine work of our Creator. I will again see a hummingbird in my back yard enjoying sweet nectar supplied by flowers and artificial sweet “nectar” that I provide. This little one-ounce bird is blessed with the ability to “winter” in Honduras and find its way back to my backyard. AMAZING!
The stories could go on and on. For now, I’m pleased to say again today:
GOD IS IN LOVE WITH THIS WORLD
AND CANNOT KEEP IT A SECRET!
--Ben Keckler
04.21.11
A saying to consider:
“God is in love with the world and cannot keep it a secret.”
--From a statement of faith, exact source forgotten
I believe this saying! The secret is clear to me at so many levels. One of the more obvious ways is watching the world turn green in spring. Frequently I drive through Eagle Creek park on the west side of Indianapolis as I make my way to and from work. Bushes that were “dead” twigs on Monday are sporting little green leaves today! New life does spring forth all around us.
In the next few weeks I will get to witness one of the more amazing reminders about the divine work of our Creator. I will again see a hummingbird in my back yard enjoying sweet nectar supplied by flowers and artificial sweet “nectar” that I provide. This little one-ounce bird is blessed with the ability to “winter” in Honduras and find its way back to my backyard. AMAZING!
The stories could go on and on. For now, I’m pleased to say again today:
GOD IS IN LOVE WITH THIS WORLD
AND CANNOT KEEP IT A SECRET!
--Ben Keckler
04.21.11
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Daily Devotion-- Wednesday, April 20, 2011
“But for me it is good to be near God;
Psalm 73: 28
How do you describe the story of your life? A variety of images are available: a tapestry, a song, a narrative, a poem… Whatever description you use it can be helpful to view or review the story of your life. Within our “life-song” we can discover that we 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. 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
A prayer: Draw me near to you O God, as I look at my life and discover your presence.
Ben Keckler
04.20.11
Psalm 73: 28
How do you describe the story of your life? A variety of images are available: a tapestry, a song, a narrative, a poem… Whatever description you use it can be helpful to view or review the story of your life. Within our “life-song” we can discover that we 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. 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
A prayer: Draw me near to you O God, as I look at my life and discover your presence.
Ben Keckler
04.20.11
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 19, 2011
“Hope does not disappoint us...”
From a Letter to believers in Rome
What happens when difficult news comes our way? How do we respond? It seems fair to say that life is not as easy as we would like; that challenges are more the standard and pain is more intense than we desire. When tough times come your way try spending some moments in quiet reflection, allowing hope to infuse the uncomfortable feelings that are growing in your souls. A number of helpful observations have been preserved over the years about hope. Obviously the quote from Scriptures is a good one. Maybe some of these could be 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
04.19.11
From a Letter to believers in Rome
What happens when difficult news comes our way? How do we respond? It seems fair to say that life is not as easy as we would like; that challenges are more the standard and pain is more intense than we desire. When tough times come your way try spending some moments in quiet reflection, allowing hope to infuse the uncomfortable feelings that are growing in your souls. A number of helpful observations have been preserved over the years about hope. Obviously the quote from Scriptures is a good one. Maybe some of these could be 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
04.19.11
Friday, April 15, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 15
Ending Our Week with St. Francis
“We give thanks to you, O God;
we give thanks; your name is near.
People are telling of your wondrous deeds.”
--From Psalm 75
The writings of St. Francis offer some great wisdom in the midst of troublesome times. Meditating on his words can help us to see the world through lenses that enable us to see our surroundings more clearly. Possibly we can be led to more peaceful living, with the ability to tell of God’s wondrous deeds. Here are words from meditation #27 in “The Admonitions”.
“Where there is God’s love and wisdom,
There is no room for fear, or for ignorance.
Where there is patience and humility,
There is no anger, nor even irritation.
Where there is joy in being poor in spirit,
There is neither secret covetousness nor greed
that leads to hateful actions.
Where there is peace, sown in times of meditation,
There is no worry, nor dissipation of true spiritual zeal.
Where there is awe and deep respect for the Lord
to guard the house,
The Enemy cannot get inside, or gain so much as a foothold.
Where there is mercy in discerning the faults of another,
There is neither allowance for destructive excesses,
Nor an unforgiving hard-heartedness toward those who fail.”
Have a meaningful weekend experiencing the wondrous activity of Holy deeds.
Ben Keckler
04.15.11
“We give thanks to you, O God;
we give thanks; your name is near.
People are telling of your wondrous deeds.”
--From Psalm 75
The writings of St. Francis offer some great wisdom in the midst of troublesome times. Meditating on his words can help us to see the world through lenses that enable us to see our surroundings more clearly. Possibly we can be led to more peaceful living, with the ability to tell of God’s wondrous deeds. Here are words from meditation #27 in “The Admonitions”.
“Where there is God’s love and wisdom,
There is no room for fear, or for ignorance.
Where there is patience and humility,
There is no anger, nor even irritation.
Where there is joy in being poor in spirit,
There is neither secret covetousness nor greed
that leads to hateful actions.
Where there is peace, sown in times of meditation,
There is no worry, nor dissipation of true spiritual zeal.
Where there is awe and deep respect for the Lord
to guard the house,
The Enemy cannot get inside, or gain so much as a foothold.
Where there is mercy in discerning the faults of another,
There is neither allowance for destructive excesses,
Nor an unforgiving hard-heartedness toward those who fail.”
Have a meaningful weekend experiencing the wondrous activity of Holy deeds.
Ben Keckler
04.15.11
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 14
Peace – Acting and Living
“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? Our Native American brothers and sisters—Miami, Sioux, Navajo, and Potawatomi, to name a few—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?
A prayer: Amid the talk, may my walk reflect the way of peace. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.14.11
“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? Our Native American brothers and sisters—Miami, Sioux, Navajo, and Potawatomi, to name a few—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?
A prayer: Amid the talk, may my walk reflect the way of peace. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.14.11
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 13
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 international fragmentation 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; for the cynic, the faith-filled and the mystic. 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.
A prayer for today: 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
04.13.11
“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 international fragmentation 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; for the cynic, the faith-filled and the mystic. 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.
A prayer for today: 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
04.13.11
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 12
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
04.12.11
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
04.12.11
Monday, April 11, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 11
A Prayer from Mother Teresa
Many 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. I find it helpful to share this prayer once or twice a year.
“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.
Ben Keckler
04.11.11
Many 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. I find it helpful to share this prayer once or twice a year.
“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.
Ben Keckler
04.11.11
Friday, April 8, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 8
Are You Listening?
“Listen to the sound of my cry O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
Today we conclude our work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. I trust we can emerge as better listeners because of a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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 weight 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 voices of those around us.
--Ben Keckler
04.08.11
“Listen to the sound of my cry O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
Today we conclude our work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. I trust we can emerge as better listeners because of a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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 weight 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 voices of those around us.
--Ben Keckler
04.08.11
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, April 7
Are You Listening?
“Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we continue to work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. I trust we can emerge as better listeners because of a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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 can enable us to be better listeners. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.07.11
“Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we continue to work through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need to Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. I trust we can emerge as better listeners because of a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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 can enable us to be better listeners. Have a good day.
--Ben Keckler
04.07.11
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, April 6
Are You Listening?
“Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are working through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need To Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. Let’s become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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.”
There are multiple reasons for people shouting around this global villiage, trying to understand. In my workplace the shouting may be muffled, weakened by disease, but it is still very present. Listen closely today to shouts and screams; may you find a Holy Presence giving you clarity in your listening. God bless you.
--Ben Keckler
04.06.11
“Listen to the sound of my cry, O my God,
for to you I pray.”
--From Psalm 5
This week we are working through a prayer by Kenneth Phifer entitled, “I Need To Listen”. The verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. Let’s become better listeners through a prayer to the Great Listener, our Holy God.
“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.”
There are multiple reasons for people shouting around this global villiage, trying to understand. In my workplace the shouting may be muffled, weakened by disease, but it is still very present. Listen closely today to shouts and screams; may you find a Holy Presence giving you clarity in your listening. God bless you.
--Ben Keckler
04.06.11
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, April 5
Are You Listening?
“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 verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. Let’s 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
04.05.11
“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 verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. Let’s 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
04.05.11
Monday, April 4, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, April 4
Are You Listening?
“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 verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. 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
04.04.11
“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 verse of the Psalm introduces 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 are quite congruent. 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
04.04.11
Friday, April 1, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, April 1
Love All Creation
“O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.”
--From Psalm 96
The weekend will be a bit chilly compared to a couple weeks ago! Still, the spring flowers continue to push toward the sun. The lilac continues to show courage; clearly some leaves are wanting to burst forth from their bud. The green blades keep emerging from under the brown grass blades of winter. A new song is being sung in creation while we sit inside watching NCAA basketball, complete with the latest news interruptions.
Maybe this poetic piece by Fyodor Dostoyevsky can help frame our faith journey this weekend; it certainly seems to encourage us to sing a song of love for everything that surrounds us.
“Love all Creation
The whole of it and every grain of sand
Love every leaf
Every ray of God’s light
Love the animals
Love the plants
Love everything
If you love everything
You will perceive
The divine mystery in things
And once you have perceived it
You will begin to comprehend it ceaselessly
More and more everyday
And you will at last come to love the whole world
With an abiding universal love.”
A prayer: Creator God put a new song in my heart. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.01.11
“O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.”
--From Psalm 96
The weekend will be a bit chilly compared to a couple weeks ago! Still, the spring flowers continue to push toward the sun. The lilac continues to show courage; clearly some leaves are wanting to burst forth from their bud. The green blades keep emerging from under the brown grass blades of winter. A new song is being sung in creation while we sit inside watching NCAA basketball, complete with the latest news interruptions.
Maybe this poetic piece by Fyodor Dostoyevsky can help frame our faith journey this weekend; it certainly seems to encourage us to sing a song of love for everything that surrounds us.
“Love all Creation
The whole of it and every grain of sand
Love every leaf
Every ray of God’s light
Love the animals
Love the plants
Love everything
If you love everything
You will perceive
The divine mystery in things
And once you have perceived it
You will begin to comprehend it ceaselessly
More and more everyday
And you will at last come to love the whole world
With an abiding universal love.”
A prayer: Creator God put a new song in my heart. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
04.01.11
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