Needing A Bit of Enthusiasm?
“In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil… Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts. This was Job’s regular custom.”
--From the Prologue to the book of Job
Many of us are familiar with the story of Job. It’s a story of the wealthiest person of the East losing everything. It’s a faith story and worthy of reading.
The book, Tuesdays with Morrie is a tremendous story worthy of reading. This book is the story of a college professor, Morrie Schwartz, and the last weeks of his life. Mitch Albom was one of the professor’s students who, upon hearing that his beloved teacher was dying, decided he wanted to spend time with his professor and learn some additional lessons about life. This little snippet shows that Morrie didn’t lose his spark and enthusiasm even as he journeyed toward his eternal rest.
Okay, question, I say to Morrie. His bony fingers hold his glasses across his chest, which rises and falls with each labored breath.
“What is the question?” he says.
Remember the Book of Job?
“From the Bible?”
Right, Job is a good man, but God makes him suffer. To test his faith.
“I remember.”
Takes away everything he has, his house, his money, his family…
“His health.”
Makes him sick.
“To test his faith.”
Right, I say. To test his faith. So, I’m wondering…
“What are you wondering?”
What you think about that?
Morrie coughs violently. His hands quiver as he drops them by his side.
“I think,” he says, smiling, “God overdid it.”
(Pages 150-151)
May you find enough spark and enthusiasm for today. Thanks, Morrie, for the insight!
--Ben Keckler
05.31.11
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 30
Celebration!
The little seeds planted some weeks ago are now healthy and ready for planting. The perennials are, for the most part, looking quite healthy. The tomato plants are thriving and little blossoms are hinting of better days ahead. The robins who built their nest in the fern are celebrating three youngsters who are now able to fly. The cat no longer looks through glass, but is sniffing fresh air as it comes into the house. Very good, yes, very good! The rhythm of life continues as it has for centuries!
This weekend in my hometown, 500,000 (who is counting) have descended on Indianapolis (actually Speedway), Indiana to watch the greatest spectacle in racing as Indianapolis Motor Speedway celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. The rhythm of the racetrack is not all that old, but it is worth celebrating.
Today we remember those who have died so that we can enjoy life in a very special way. I hope you will have a meaningful Memorial Day celebration and I truly hope that you can meditate for a bit on this wonderful insight of Jocele Meyer:
“I have a dream that one-day we, too, will see all that God has created as good. We will live in such ways that word and deed are one. We will work toward that day as we farm in more sustainable ways, plant trees that purify the air, cultivate our urban gardens, and make a habit of walking short distances so fewer parking lots represent the last harvest on the land. I have a dream that humankind will more fully understand what it means to live in covenant with God.” (Earthkeepers, p. 39)
A good Memorial Day to you!
--Ben Keckler
05.30.11
The little seeds planted some weeks ago are now healthy and ready for planting. The perennials are, for the most part, looking quite healthy. The tomato plants are thriving and little blossoms are hinting of better days ahead. The robins who built their nest in the fern are celebrating three youngsters who are now able to fly. The cat no longer looks through glass, but is sniffing fresh air as it comes into the house. Very good, yes, very good! The rhythm of life continues as it has for centuries!
This weekend in my hometown, 500,000 (who is counting) have descended on Indianapolis (actually Speedway), Indiana to watch the greatest spectacle in racing as Indianapolis Motor Speedway celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. The rhythm of the racetrack is not all that old, but it is worth celebrating.
Today we remember those who have died so that we can enjoy life in a very special way. I hope you will have a meaningful Memorial Day celebration and I truly hope that you can meditate for a bit on this wonderful insight of Jocele Meyer:
“I have a dream that one-day we, too, will see all that God has created as good. We will live in such ways that word and deed are one. We will work toward that day as we farm in more sustainable ways, plant trees that purify the air, cultivate our urban gardens, and make a habit of walking short distances so fewer parking lots represent the last harvest on the land. I have a dream that humankind will more fully understand what it means to live in covenant with God.” (Earthkeepers, p. 39)
A good Memorial Day to you!
--Ben Keckler
05.30.11
Friday, May 27, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 27
Reflections on Psalm 23
The closing verse of the Psalm says, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Two quotes for our final devotion on Psalm 23:
1. Attributed to Levi Yitzhak of Beditchev
“Lord of the universe, I do not beg you to reveal to me
the secret of your ways, for who am I to know them?
But show me one thing,
show it to me more clearly and more deeply,
show me what this which is happening
at this very moment means to me,
what it demands of me,
what you, Lord of the world,
are telling me by way of it.
Dear God, I do not ask you to take away my suffering;
I don’t even want to know why I suffer;
But only this, my God;
Do I suffer for your sake?”
2. Attributed to Julian of Norwich
“God did not say,
‘Thou shall not be tempted,
Thou shall not be travailed,
Thou shall not be diseased.’
But God did say,
‘Thou shall not be overcome.’”
May goodness and mercy follow you throughout the day and the entire weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.27.11
The closing verse of the Psalm says, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Two quotes for our final devotion on Psalm 23:
1. Attributed to Levi Yitzhak of Beditchev
“Lord of the universe, I do not beg you to reveal to me
the secret of your ways, for who am I to know them?
But show me one thing,
show it to me more clearly and more deeply,
show me what this which is happening
at this very moment means to me,
what it demands of me,
what you, Lord of the world,
are telling me by way of it.
Dear God, I do not ask you to take away my suffering;
I don’t even want to know why I suffer;
But only this, my God;
Do I suffer for your sake?”
2. Attributed to Julian of Norwich
“God did not say,
‘Thou shall not be tempted,
Thou shall not be travailed,
Thou shall not be diseased.’
But God did say,
‘Thou shall not be overcome.’”
May goodness and mercy follow you throughout the day and the entire weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.27.11
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 26
Reflections on Psalm 23
Yesterday we talked about relying on God’s guidance to lead us through the valleys of deep darkness. Today we are presented with a trio of statements about the shepherd’s care giving. “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.” Let’s approach this trio in two ways today.
First, receive these statements as gifts that flow to you, the created, from your creator.
Then, think about the ways that you prepare tables in the presence of enemies (like sickness, illness, disease); the ways you anoint people with healing oils (like medications, lotions, dressings); the ways you can fill people’s lives to overflowing (like gifts of gentleness, kindness and goodness).
As people dedicated to quality care giving, let us continue to display the words of the Psalmist in our words and our work. May the grace of God flow through you.
A Prayer attributed to Thomas A Kempis: “Make that possible to me, O Lord, by grace which appears impossible to me by nature. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.26.11
Yesterday we talked about relying on God’s guidance to lead us through the valleys of deep darkness. Today we are presented with a trio of statements about the shepherd’s care giving. “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.” Let’s approach this trio in two ways today.
First, receive these statements as gifts that flow to you, the created, from your creator.
Then, think about the ways that you prepare tables in the presence of enemies (like sickness, illness, disease); the ways you anoint people with healing oils (like medications, lotions, dressings); the ways you can fill people’s lives to overflowing (like gifts of gentleness, kindness and goodness).
As people dedicated to quality care giving, let us continue to display the words of the Psalmist in our words and our work. May the grace of God flow through you.
A Prayer attributed to Thomas A Kempis: “Make that possible to me, O Lord, by grace which appears impossible to me by nature. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.26.11
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 25
Reflections on Psalm 23
Have you ever been in a valley of deep darkness? If we were to translate the Hebrew words literally, that would be a preferred translation for the “valley of the shadow of death”. Think about valleys of deep darkness that we all experience. Dare we name them? Loneliness, sadness, being overwhelmed, feeling threatened — these are some of those valleys we hesitate to name.
When we are traveling though a valley of deep darkness we can be just like an easily frightened lamb. We feel very vulnerable. It is comforting to know when we are traveling through these difficult places that our Creator is present with rod and staff to guide us through. Sometimes the rod is needed to beat back the dangers around us. Sometimes the staff is necessary because the crook can pull us back onto a better path. Valleys of deep darkness don’t need to be lonely! They can be places where the silence teaches us to trust the shepherd.
Have a good day today. If you aren’t in a valley right now, there may be those around you who are. You may be the rod or staff to help guide them through their darkness. May your care giving be blessed with a touch of the divine?
A Prayer attributed to Marcarius the Great: “Lord, help! Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.25.11
Have you ever been in a valley of deep darkness? If we were to translate the Hebrew words literally, that would be a preferred translation for the “valley of the shadow of death”. Think about valleys of deep darkness that we all experience. Dare we name them? Loneliness, sadness, being overwhelmed, feeling threatened — these are some of those valleys we hesitate to name.
When we are traveling though a valley of deep darkness we can be just like an easily frightened lamb. We feel very vulnerable. It is comforting to know when we are traveling through these difficult places that our Creator is present with rod and staff to guide us through. Sometimes the rod is needed to beat back the dangers around us. Sometimes the staff is necessary because the crook can pull us back onto a better path. Valleys of deep darkness don’t need to be lonely! They can be places where the silence teaches us to trust the shepherd.
Have a good day today. If you aren’t in a valley right now, there may be those around you who are. You may be the rod or staff to help guide them through their darkness. May your care giving be blessed with a touch of the divine?
A Prayer attributed to Marcarius the Great: “Lord, help! Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.25.11
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 24
Reflections on Psalm 23
It is only Tuesday morning and, while it’s still very early in the week, we may be longing to experience the soothing words of Psalm 23. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.” There are still many more hours in the week and the demands on each of us will be great.
As this spring season unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket, lie down surrounded by green grass, and observe the budding of new life around us. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing, making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored.
The author of this song seems to say, “God leads me to the places he does and I know my shepherd is providing for my renewal. Yes, God is enabling me to recapture my energy and move ahead.” There are still many more hours this week. Listen closely and you will find your gentle shepherd is framing ways for you to discover wonderful treasures within your soul.
A Prayer attributed to John Neale: “Lord, one day I will live with you where you are. Live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.24.11
It is only Tuesday morning and, while it’s still very early in the week, we may be longing to experience the soothing words of Psalm 23. “He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul.” There are still many more hours in the week and the demands on each of us will be great.
As this spring season unfolds, it would be really nice to go over to the park, spread out a blanket, lie down surrounded by green grass, and observe the budding of new life around us. It would be equally nice to go over to the park and walk next to the stream, listening to the waters gently flowing, making just enough noise to relax our anxious souls. We long for our souls to be restored.
The author of this song seems to say, “God leads me to the places he does and I know my shepherd is providing for my renewal. Yes, God is enabling me to recapture my energy and move ahead.” There are still many more hours this week. Listen closely and you will find your gentle shepherd is framing ways for you to discover wonderful treasures within your soul.
A Prayer attributed to John Neale: “Lord, one day I will live with you where you are. Live with me where I am now. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.24.11
Monday, May 23, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 23
Reflections on Psalm 23
Those who work with sheep tell us that sheep are easily frightened. They tell us that sheep can get lost easily, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Sheep need a lot of guidance, they need to be watched and protected and encouraged. No one knows this better than a sheepherder. Psalm 23 starts with the writer confessing the needs of his soul. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
Imagine a shepherd and his flock of sheep in the barren, rocky and dry countryside of Biblical times. It wouldn’t take long for grasslands to disappear with a flock of sheep. The life of a shepherd was a life of constant movement, searching for a place where grass and water could nurture his animals. It was probably quite difficult. Yet, the writer says with confidence in his great shepherd, “I shall not want.”
As we begin a new week I encourage you to stay in touch with the caregiver who holds you in the palm of his hand. May your wants and needs be supplied. May you be blessed with the ability to care for others just as your caregiver provides for you.
A Prayer attributed to Martin Luther: “Lord, misery and misfortune oppress me. I long to be rid of them. You have said, ‘ask and it will be given you.’ So I come and ask. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.23.11
Those who work with sheep tell us that sheep are easily frightened. They tell us that sheep can get lost easily, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Sheep need a lot of guidance, they need to be watched and protected and encouraged. No one knows this better than a sheepherder. Psalm 23 starts with the writer confessing the needs of his soul. Another way of beginning this Psalm might sound like this: “Knowing that I possess many of the qualities that sheep possess, I am glad that God is present to be my caregiver, my shepherd.”
Imagine a shepherd and his flock of sheep in the barren, rocky and dry countryside of Biblical times. It wouldn’t take long for grasslands to disappear with a flock of sheep. The life of a shepherd was a life of constant movement, searching for a place where grass and water could nurture his animals. It was probably quite difficult. Yet, the writer says with confidence in his great shepherd, “I shall not want.”
As we begin a new week I encourage you to stay in touch with the caregiver who holds you in the palm of his hand. May your wants and needs be supplied. May you be blessed with the ability to care for others just as your caregiver provides for you.
A Prayer attributed to Martin Luther: “Lord, misery and misfortune oppress me. I long to be rid of them. You have said, ‘ask and it will be given you.’ So I come and ask. Amen.”
--Ben Keckler
05.23.11
Friday, May 20, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 20
Belief and Disbelief
“We both believe and disbelieve a hundred times an hour
which keeps believing nimble.”
--Emily Dickinson
What would it have been like to know and talk with Emily Dickinson? From time to time one of her great lines appears and it makes so much sense. She was/is so insightful. The quote above is one of those insightful quotes.
The struggle to trust God in all things is very difficult. Trusting calls for a leap of faith. Life really is acting as if we trust; and then, when we discover that we are kept safe, trust emerges.
As we take the necessary time to listen to our hearts, we discover a dialogue is going on! The dialogue is between belief and disbelief. It goes something like this, “Should I leave this place of comfort, not knowing whether there is going to be comfort beyond this place?”
Leaping into uncharted spaces, we can discover the boundaries of God’s love are greater than we imagined. We find an “at-homeness” that keeps expanding.
Are you ready for the weekend? It is filled with hundreds of possibilities. Leap into the spaciousness of the eternal, ever-present one; or…debate about it; or … stay in the present; or …???
May believing stay nimble.
A prayer: God, my weekend will have many opportunities to leap, embrace me.
--Ben Keckler
05.20.11
“We both believe and disbelieve a hundred times an hour
which keeps believing nimble.”
--Emily Dickinson
What would it have been like to know and talk with Emily Dickinson? From time to time one of her great lines appears and it makes so much sense. She was/is so insightful. The quote above is one of those insightful quotes.
The struggle to trust God in all things is very difficult. Trusting calls for a leap of faith. Life really is acting as if we trust; and then, when we discover that we are kept safe, trust emerges.
As we take the necessary time to listen to our hearts, we discover a dialogue is going on! The dialogue is between belief and disbelief. It goes something like this, “Should I leave this place of comfort, not knowing whether there is going to be comfort beyond this place?”
Leaping into uncharted spaces, we can discover the boundaries of God’s love are greater than we imagined. We find an “at-homeness” that keeps expanding.
Are you ready for the weekend? It is filled with hundreds of possibilities. Leap into the spaciousness of the eternal, ever-present one; or…debate about it; or … stay in the present; or …???
May believing stay nimble.
A prayer: God, my weekend will have many opportunities to leap, embrace me.
--Ben Keckler
05.20.11
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 19
Something to Ponder
“In a fabulous necklace
I had to admire
the anonymous string
by which the whole thing
was strung together.”
--Dom. Helder Camara,
Brazilian bishop to the poor
Each and every day more people are born into or arrive at the door of poverty than the number of people who are born into or arrive at self-sustaining affluence. It happens in our land and it happens in every country of the world. Global village realities are often ignored because we look at the fabulous necklace rather than the string.
How we long for a life where everyone is self-supporting, a life where everyone has nice gems on their necklace string! The reality is that fewer and fewer people are self-supporting. Susan Classen (Mennonite missionary to El Salvador) tells this story:
"A group of women in El Salvador called the 'Mothers of the Disappeared, Tortured and Assassinated' meet regularly as a support group. Affluent security forces during the civil war killed their husbands and/or children. One of the ladies, Antonia, says, 'My life is like a necklace—the beads would have gone rolling all over the floor with the suffering I’ve experienced, if it weren’t for the support group that holds me together just like the string that holds the beads together.'"
Poverty has many different forms. We usually think of it economically. Yet, there are many different losses that cause each of us to arrive at a door of poverty. A support group kept poor Antonia affluent in the midst of her poverty. Support groups are important for every person. In order to have a deep and lasting trust, we must open our hearts to the hearts of others. As we take time to weave strands of trust, we are remembering the importance of the fine string holding the gemstones of our life.
--Ben Keckler
05.19.11
“In a fabulous necklace
I had to admire
the anonymous string
by which the whole thing
was strung together.”
--Dom. Helder Camara,
Brazilian bishop to the poor
Each and every day more people are born into or arrive at the door of poverty than the number of people who are born into or arrive at self-sustaining affluence. It happens in our land and it happens in every country of the world. Global village realities are often ignored because we look at the fabulous necklace rather than the string.
How we long for a life where everyone is self-supporting, a life where everyone has nice gems on their necklace string! The reality is that fewer and fewer people are self-supporting. Susan Classen (Mennonite missionary to El Salvador) tells this story:
"A group of women in El Salvador called the 'Mothers of the Disappeared, Tortured and Assassinated' meet regularly as a support group. Affluent security forces during the civil war killed their husbands and/or children. One of the ladies, Antonia, says, 'My life is like a necklace—the beads would have gone rolling all over the floor with the suffering I’ve experienced, if it weren’t for the support group that holds me together just like the string that holds the beads together.'"
Poverty has many different forms. We usually think of it economically. Yet, there are many different losses that cause each of us to arrive at a door of poverty. A support group kept poor Antonia affluent in the midst of her poverty. Support groups are important for every person. In order to have a deep and lasting trust, we must open our hearts to the hearts of others. As we take time to weave strands of trust, we are remembering the importance of the fine string holding the gemstones of our life.
--Ben Keckler
05.19.11
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 18
Communication
“It was so cold that if the thermometer had been an inch longer,
we would have frozen to death.”
--Mark Twain
All of us are aware that the length of the thermometer is not what causes us to freeze to death. A similar analogy is probably true about the words we speak. Words can cause us to freeze to death, too — sometimes it’s not the words we say, but more often it’s how our words are decoded by the listener(s). Words, words, words. Here is a little story that Tony deMello tells about a farmer in Finland:
“When they were drawing up the Russian-Finnish border, the farmer had to decide whether he wanted to be in Russia or Finland. After a long time he said he wanted to be in Finland, but he didn’t want to offend the Russian officials. They came to and wanted to know why he wanted to be in Finland. The farmer replied, ‘It has always been my desire to live in Mother Russia, but at my age I wouldn’t be able to survive another Russian winter.’”
How problematic our words can be! Our communication with one another can sometimes be incomplete and misunderstood. Who knows? Maybe this very meditation doesn’t make sense! Maybe you are interpreting my words in a different way than I am wanting! It seems the Psalmist captured the most important aspect of communication:
“May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
--Ben Keckler
05.18.11
“It was so cold that if the thermometer had been an inch longer,
we would have frozen to death.”
--Mark Twain
All of us are aware that the length of the thermometer is not what causes us to freeze to death. A similar analogy is probably true about the words we speak. Words can cause us to freeze to death, too — sometimes it’s not the words we say, but more often it’s how our words are decoded by the listener(s). Words, words, words. Here is a little story that Tony deMello tells about a farmer in Finland:
“When they were drawing up the Russian-Finnish border, the farmer had to decide whether he wanted to be in Russia or Finland. After a long time he said he wanted to be in Finland, but he didn’t want to offend the Russian officials. They came to and wanted to know why he wanted to be in Finland. The farmer replied, ‘It has always been my desire to live in Mother Russia, but at my age I wouldn’t be able to survive another Russian winter.’”
How problematic our words can be! Our communication with one another can sometimes be incomplete and misunderstood. Who knows? Maybe this very meditation doesn’t make sense! Maybe you are interpreting my words in a different way than I am wanting! It seems the Psalmist captured the most important aspect of communication:
“May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
--Ben Keckler
05.18.11
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 17
Little Grief
A thought for today:
“If we include our ‘little griefs’ along with our ‘large griefs’,
we can say that grief is as natural to every person as breathing.”
Granger Westburg from Good Grief
A devotional thought on grief? You’ve got to be kidding.
No.
Over the last four or five decades grief awareness has grown remarkably. Unfortunately, much of the time we still associate the word grief with death. Westburg reminds us that death is a large grief, but that there are many other “little griefs” that come our way.
During springtime in Indiana some may have to face “tornado grief”. This spring has also brought “flood grief” to many people living near swollen rivers. During economic downtimes, people face “job-loss grief”. With some illnesses like Alzheimer’s, families face the loss of a person before the death of a person. Moving or other types of change in family life brings grief to the forefront. A hospital or a county with “growing pains” can be a grief producer. The list, in fact, could be quite lengthy.
Often we sweep this “grief stuff” under the carpet or hide it away in a closet. In the brief reading for today, Westburg reminds us that grief stuff is ok in public. When we open ourselves to the challenge of “working through” our grief (whether little or large), we affirm our common ground with one another. When we pour out our grief, we open ourselves to the healing power that others have to give.
May each of us have the courage to identify and clarify our own “griefs” and, as we work through them, may they all become “Good Grief”.
A prayer for today: Healing God, grant me honesty that will lead to healing. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.17.11
A thought for today:
“If we include our ‘little griefs’ along with our ‘large griefs’,
we can say that grief is as natural to every person as breathing.”
Granger Westburg from Good Grief
A devotional thought on grief? You’ve got to be kidding.
No.
Over the last four or five decades grief awareness has grown remarkably. Unfortunately, much of the time we still associate the word grief with death. Westburg reminds us that death is a large grief, but that there are many other “little griefs” that come our way.
During springtime in Indiana some may have to face “tornado grief”. This spring has also brought “flood grief” to many people living near swollen rivers. During economic downtimes, people face “job-loss grief”. With some illnesses like Alzheimer’s, families face the loss of a person before the death of a person. Moving or other types of change in family life brings grief to the forefront. A hospital or a county with “growing pains” can be a grief producer. The list, in fact, could be quite lengthy.
Often we sweep this “grief stuff” under the carpet or hide it away in a closet. In the brief reading for today, Westburg reminds us that grief stuff is ok in public. When we open ourselves to the challenge of “working through” our grief (whether little or large), we affirm our common ground with one another. When we pour out our grief, we open ourselves to the healing power that others have to give.
May each of us have the courage to identify and clarify our own “griefs” and, as we work through them, may they all become “Good Grief”.
A prayer for today: Healing God, grant me honesty that will lead to healing. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.17.11
Monday, May 16, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 16
As I See It
A thought for today:
“There are two ways of looking at the world,
of entering into relationship with it.
We may see in it nothing but things.
On the other hand,
one can lay oneself open to the world of persons.”
--Paul Tournier
Dr. Paul Tournier is a pioneer of holistic health care. Around 60 years ago this Swiss physician began writing books, calling health care providers to be concerned about the entire person. The books are classics and need to be referenced in each and every decade. We have three of those books, (The Meaning of Persons; The Healing of Persons; and Medicine of the Whole Person) in the chaplaincy office.
Our gadget filled, convenience oriented society puts a great deal of pressure on all of us to look at the world of things. For example, after a day at work it is often easier to go home and turn on the radio or TV than it is to take twenty of thirty minutes relating to those significant persons in our lives. We could create an endless list of ways the world of things takes precedence over the world of persons.
The “things” of society are not necessarily bad or evil. Take this devotional. The world of computers has given us a means of generating this and sending it out for the world to access. Not a bad thing! But if I sit in my office all day, I will miss the wonderful world of heart and soul interaction. Relational time contributes to healthier living.
Take some time today to “open to the world of persons”. It is a tremendous opportunity that may bring the Holy One closer to you than you ever imagined. Take some time and think about how you are relating to the things and persons around you. May your day be filled with blessedness!
A prayer for today: God of today, bring another soul my way. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.16.11
A thought for today:
“There are two ways of looking at the world,
of entering into relationship with it.
We may see in it nothing but things.
On the other hand,
one can lay oneself open to the world of persons.”
--Paul Tournier
Dr. Paul Tournier is a pioneer of holistic health care. Around 60 years ago this Swiss physician began writing books, calling health care providers to be concerned about the entire person. The books are classics and need to be referenced in each and every decade. We have three of those books, (The Meaning of Persons; The Healing of Persons; and Medicine of the Whole Person) in the chaplaincy office.
Our gadget filled, convenience oriented society puts a great deal of pressure on all of us to look at the world of things. For example, after a day at work it is often easier to go home and turn on the radio or TV than it is to take twenty of thirty minutes relating to those significant persons in our lives. We could create an endless list of ways the world of things takes precedence over the world of persons.
The “things” of society are not necessarily bad or evil. Take this devotional. The world of computers has given us a means of generating this and sending it out for the world to access. Not a bad thing! But if I sit in my office all day, I will miss the wonderful world of heart and soul interaction. Relational time contributes to healthier living.
Take some time today to “open to the world of persons”. It is a tremendous opportunity that may bring the Holy One closer to you than you ever imagined. Take some time and think about how you are relating to the things and persons around you. May your day be filled with blessedness!
A prayer for today: God of today, bring another soul my way. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
05.16.11
Friday, May 13, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 13
Something To Consider Today
(and maybe this weekend)
“No matter how far we've come, what you'll continue to discover is that there's always a next level of transformation, healing and improvement. Perhaps continuing to move forward on that path is what life is all about.”
--Bill Phillips
In one of the early Christian letters the writer suggested that transformation happens by the renewing of our minds, thereby learning to understand the way of God. Mr. Phillips’ quote says it in another way. For the end of the week (and for this weekend) maybe each of us can wrestle with this question: “What level of transformation is next for me?”
Journey on, friends, journey on! Have a meaningful weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.13.11
(and maybe this weekend)
“No matter how far we've come, what you'll continue to discover is that there's always a next level of transformation, healing and improvement. Perhaps continuing to move forward on that path is what life is all about.”
--Bill Phillips
In one of the early Christian letters the writer suggested that transformation happens by the renewing of our minds, thereby learning to understand the way of God. Mr. Phillips’ quote says it in another way. For the end of the week (and for this weekend) maybe each of us can wrestle with this question: “What level of transformation is next for me?”
Journey on, friends, journey on! Have a meaningful weekend.
--Ben Keckler
05.13.11
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 12
A Thursday Chuckle
I will always be grateful to a colleague. He believed that, for effective communication, our weekly pastor's column in the church newsletter should be limited to 120 words. We worked hard to honor that goal. Over the years I've learned that the same is true for devotions, sermons, prayers and just about every type of communication. Recently I came to understand the value of precision even more when I read a quote from Norman Ford:
“Never try to tell everything you know. It may take too short a time.”
Maybe I should conclude this devotion! Until tomorrow----
--Ben Keckler
05.12.11
I will always be grateful to a colleague. He believed that, for effective communication, our weekly pastor's column in the church newsletter should be limited to 120 words. We worked hard to honor that goal. Over the years I've learned that the same is true for devotions, sermons, prayers and just about every type of communication. Recently I came to understand the value of precision even more when I read a quote from Norman Ford:
“Never try to tell everything you know. It may take too short a time.”
Maybe I should conclude this devotion! Until tomorrow----
--Ben Keckler
05.12.11
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 11
Maybe This Can Help
“Sometimes all it takes for you to start making right choices
is the spark of realization that your life was meant for something better.”
--Wayne Heinrichs
Recently a friend of mine was growing increasingly frustrated with life. She felt like she was stuck and she couldn't figure out what was wrong with her life. She realized that life could be better, that something needed to change. We struggled for a bit about what kind of opportunities might help her get into a better place; a decision was made and an action plan developed.
Today I got the following e-mail: “Wow! I feel better. I going to stick with the plan!”
It is really enjoyable when the spark lights a new fire!
--Ben Keckler
05.11.11
“Sometimes all it takes for you to start making right choices
is the spark of realization that your life was meant for something better.”
--Wayne Heinrichs
Recently a friend of mine was growing increasingly frustrated with life. She felt like she was stuck and she couldn't figure out what was wrong with her life. She realized that life could be better, that something needed to change. We struggled for a bit about what kind of opportunities might help her get into a better place; a decision was made and an action plan developed.
Today I got the following e-mail: “Wow! I feel better. I going to stick with the plan!”
It is really enjoyable when the spark lights a new fire!
--Ben Keckler
05.11.11
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 10
A Bit Of Wisdom
This year I took a chance and I am glad I did! In Central Indiana it isn't wise to put plants outside until around Mother's Day (we had a heavy frost on May 5 this year). In mid-April there were a few very warm days and I took the ferns from our sunroom outside to enjoy their life. There was risk/fear involved. My wife works hard all winter to keep our ferns healthy and growing; the fear was two-fold: dead ferns and a frustrated wife! I didn't hesitate in carrying out my desire!
The result: In one of the ferns some robins have built a nest and are preparing to bring new life into the world.
Another result: The fern is alive and I am too!
There is an old wisdom saying that comes to us from Nigeria: “Hesitation enhances fear.” Generally I've found that taking action is good. This year I took a chance and I am glad I did!
--Ben Keckler
05.10.11
This year I took a chance and I am glad I did! In Central Indiana it isn't wise to put plants outside until around Mother's Day (we had a heavy frost on May 5 this year). In mid-April there were a few very warm days and I took the ferns from our sunroom outside to enjoy their life. There was risk/fear involved. My wife works hard all winter to keep our ferns healthy and growing; the fear was two-fold: dead ferns and a frustrated wife! I didn't hesitate in carrying out my desire!
The result: In one of the ferns some robins have built a nest and are preparing to bring new life into the world.
Another result: The fern is alive and I am too!
There is an old wisdom saying that comes to us from Nigeria: “Hesitation enhances fear.” Generally I've found that taking action is good. This year I took a chance and I am glad I did!
--Ben Keckler
05.10.11
Monday, May 9, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 9
An Inspirational Moment
One of the best parts of pastoral care work is building strong relationships with people, particularly when they journey through the tough passages of life. In recent years, it's become enjoyable to reestablish relationships through on-line social networks; four decades of ministry in various settings allowed many friendships to be established and now they continue to be nourished.
Recently I've reconnected with a person who seemed to be missing for a while. She's battling with cancer and she is doing a phenomenal job. She told me that she is in a new learning phase of life and she is truly enjoying the process of learning how to be healthy while dealing with disease! Our most recent meeting left me inspired; I told her I was going to write a devotion about her tremendous journey. She provided me with a supply of energy for another week of ministry!
Many devotions conclude with a prayer or a sacred verse. To honor my friend, let me leave you with a quote from Mel Brooks:
“Look, I really don't want to wax philosophic, but I will say that if you're alive, you got to flap your arms and legs, you got to jump around a lot, you got to make a lot of noise, because life is the very opposite of death. And therefore, as I see it, if you're quiet, you're not living. You've got to be noisy, or at least your thoughts should be noisy and colorful and lively.”
PS: My friend told me to thank everyone for their prayers and support. THANKS everyone!
--Ben Keckler
05.09.11
One of the best parts of pastoral care work is building strong relationships with people, particularly when they journey through the tough passages of life. In recent years, it's become enjoyable to reestablish relationships through on-line social networks; four decades of ministry in various settings allowed many friendships to be established and now they continue to be nourished.
Recently I've reconnected with a person who seemed to be missing for a while. She's battling with cancer and she is doing a phenomenal job. She told me that she is in a new learning phase of life and she is truly enjoying the process of learning how to be healthy while dealing with disease! Our most recent meeting left me inspired; I told her I was going to write a devotion about her tremendous journey. She provided me with a supply of energy for another week of ministry!
Many devotions conclude with a prayer or a sacred verse. To honor my friend, let me leave you with a quote from Mel Brooks:
“Look, I really don't want to wax philosophic, but I will say that if you're alive, you got to flap your arms and legs, you got to jump around a lot, you got to make a lot of noise, because life is the very opposite of death. And therefore, as I see it, if you're quiet, you're not living. You've got to be noisy, or at least your thoughts should be noisy and colorful and lively.”
PS: My friend told me to thank everyone for their prayers and support. THANKS everyone!
--Ben Keckler
05.09.11
Friday, May 6, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, May 6
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
This week we’ve spent our devotional time with some prayers and thoughts about the life journey. We’ve looked at a number of various passages in the life journey – baptism, transitioning to adolescence, guiding teenagers, and personal relationships. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched.
It seems fitting, as we come to the end of a week, to think about those difficult rhythms of adulthood (healing moments and moments of passage into eternal spaces). A meditation by Elias Amidon:
“Friend, you lie quiet, watching the dawn light color your heart,
Dreaming of healing for your hurt body,
laying there unanswerable to your will.
You breathe deep and your breath has two sides: inside and outside.
You are on both, being breathed.
The future approaches. You will heal
or you will go back to being God.
Which will you do?
“Oh by all that is beautiful—may it be that you live!
May your body heal happy and whole! May energy fill and delight you!
May we join the dance your presence gives.
May you live!
“And if you die? Oh dear self, by all that is beautiful,
Know you are Safe! Everything is All Right Forever and Ever and Ever!
The most wonderful, exquisite, familiar truth is what is True,
and welcomes you.
It will be very easy.
“You lie quiet now, praying.
A great healing is coming and you want to be ready.
The colors of your heart blend with the light of the morning and
YOU ARE BLESSED!”
Have a good weekend!
--Ben Keckler
05.06.11
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
This week we’ve spent our devotional time with some prayers and thoughts about the life journey. We’ve looked at a number of various passages in the life journey – baptism, transitioning to adolescence, guiding teenagers, and personal relationships. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched.
It seems fitting, as we come to the end of a week, to think about those difficult rhythms of adulthood (healing moments and moments of passage into eternal spaces). A meditation by Elias Amidon:
“Friend, you lie quiet, watching the dawn light color your heart,
Dreaming of healing for your hurt body,
laying there unanswerable to your will.
You breathe deep and your breath has two sides: inside and outside.
You are on both, being breathed.
The future approaches. You will heal
or you will go back to being God.
Which will you do?
“Oh by all that is beautiful—may it be that you live!
May your body heal happy and whole! May energy fill and delight you!
May we join the dance your presence gives.
May you live!
“And if you die? Oh dear self, by all that is beautiful,
Know you are Safe! Everything is All Right Forever and Ever and Ever!
The most wonderful, exquisite, familiar truth is what is True,
and welcomes you.
It will be very easy.
“You lie quiet now, praying.
A great healing is coming and you want to be ready.
The colors of your heart blend with the light of the morning and
YOU ARE BLESSED!”
Have a good weekend!
--Ben Keckler
05.06.11
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, May 5
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
Let’s continue spending some devotional time with prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today’s verse is Stephen Mitchell’s adaptation of Psalm 1, recast in the setting of personal relationship of two souls merging into one.
“Blessed are the woman and the man
Who have grown beyond their greed
And have put an end to their hatred
And no longer nourish illusions.
“But they delight in the way things are
And keep their hearts open, day and night.
They are like trees planted near flowing rivers,
Which bear fruit when they are ready.
Their leaves will not fall or wither.
Everything they do will succeed.”
Mr. Mitchell presents us with a most challenging interpretation.
--Ben Keckler
05.05.11
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
Let’s continue spending some devotional time with prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today’s verse is Stephen Mitchell’s adaptation of Psalm 1, recast in the setting of personal relationship of two souls merging into one.
“Blessed are the woman and the man
Who have grown beyond their greed
And have put an end to their hatred
And no longer nourish illusions.
“But they delight in the way things are
And keep their hearts open, day and night.
They are like trees planted near flowing rivers,
Which bear fruit when they are ready.
Their leaves will not fall or wither.
Everything they do will succeed.”
Mr. Mitchell presents us with a most challenging interpretation.
--Ben Keckler
05.05.11
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, May 4
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
Today we continue our devotional theme for the week with more prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today an anonymous prayer, probably from a parent attempting to summarize some important lessons for their “already mature” teenager:
“If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else and you want to use it, get permission.
If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.
If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If it will brighten someone’s day, by all means, say it!”
--Ben Keckler
05.04.11
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
Today we continue our devotional theme for the week with more prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today an anonymous prayer, probably from a parent attempting to summarize some important lessons for their “already mature” teenager:
“If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else and you want to use it, get permission.
If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.
If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If it will brighten someone’s day, by all means, say it!”
--Ben Keckler
05.04.11
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, May 3
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
This week we are spending some devotional time with prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today’s prayer by Mary Mackintosh is filled with the spirit of Irish descendants. This prayer is offered for a child transitioning into adolescence:
“Power of raven be yours,
Power of eagle be yours
Power of the Fianna.
“Power of storm be yours,
Power of moon be yours,
Power of sun.
“Power of sea be yours,
Power of land be yours,
Power of heaven.
“Goodness of sea be yours,
Goodness of earth be yours,
Goodness of heaven.
“Each day be joy to you
No day be too sad for you,
Honour and tenderness embrace you always.”
Note: Fianna refers to a listing of heroes and heroines of Irish folk legends.
--Ben Keckler
05.03.11
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65:9
This week we are spending some devotional time with prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate.
Today’s prayer by Mary Mackintosh is filled with the spirit of Irish descendants. This prayer is offered for a child transitioning into adolescence:
“Power of raven be yours,
Power of eagle be yours
Power of the Fianna.
“Power of storm be yours,
Power of moon be yours,
Power of sun.
“Power of sea be yours,
Power of land be yours,
Power of heaven.
“Goodness of sea be yours,
Goodness of earth be yours,
Goodness of heaven.
“Each day be joy to you
No day be too sad for you,
Honour and tenderness embrace you always.”
Note: Fianna refers to a listing of heroes and heroines of Irish folk legends.
--Ben Keckler
05.03.11
Monday, May 2, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, May 2
Rhythms in the Life Journey
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65: 9
This week we are going to spend some devotional time with some prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate. Today a prayer for a baptism or blessing of a child as written by The Rev. Mark Belletini:
“We bless this child with the elements of our common being,
With earth, air, fire and water.
“With earth, which is as solid as your given frame,
my child, we bless you.
Take care of yourself as a body;
be good to yourself, for you are a good gift.
“With air, which is as fluctuating as your given passion,
my child, we bless you.
You will know sorrow and joy, rage and contentment,
resentment and ecstasy.
Feel your passions my child, they are good gifts.
“With fire, which is as illuminating as your given intelligence,
my child, we bless you.
Reason with care, test the world, and think with care,
for your mind is a good gift.
“With water, which is as clear as your spirit,
my child, we bless you.
Grow in conscience, be rooted in good stories,
and grow spiritually, for spirit too is a good gift.
“Bless you, my child.”
--Ben Keckler
05.02.11
“You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it….”
A songwriter announces his/her belief
in the Creator’s springtime goodness
--Psalm 65: 9
This week we are going to spend some devotional time with some prayers and thoughts about the life journey. Children are born, children complete a school year, youth graduate from high school and college, weddings are celebrated, and death visits us. These rhythms come to us because Holy Presence visits us and our lives are enriched. Come and meditate. Today a prayer for a baptism or blessing of a child as written by The Rev. Mark Belletini:
“We bless this child with the elements of our common being,
With earth, air, fire and water.
“With earth, which is as solid as your given frame,
my child, we bless you.
Take care of yourself as a body;
be good to yourself, for you are a good gift.
“With air, which is as fluctuating as your given passion,
my child, we bless you.
You will know sorrow and joy, rage and contentment,
resentment and ecstasy.
Feel your passions my child, they are good gifts.
“With fire, which is as illuminating as your given intelligence,
my child, we bless you.
Reason with care, test the world, and think with care,
for your mind is a good gift.
“With water, which is as clear as your spirit,
my child, we bless you.
Grow in conscience, be rooted in good stories,
and grow spiritually, for spirit too is a good gift.
“Bless you, my child.”
--Ben Keckler
05.02.11
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