Working on the Inn Side
We’ve been looking at “Inn” side rooms as Christians prepare for the religious holy day set aside to commemorate the birth of Jesus. Rooms like hope, peace and joy have been explored this week. Today we close our devotional life by exploring the theme of love.
The question for exploration today is this: “So how inclusive is that room known as LOVE?”
We like to talk about how love came among us, but far too often it seems that it is only talk. As I listen to the stories that people share with me, my heart gets a bit uneasy. Love seems to be rather conditional – we tend to give to those whose values, whose beliefs, whose religion is like ours.
I’m trying something very different this year: for every dollar I spend on those whom I love because I feel connected to them, I am also giving away a dollar in ways that reach out and give to others regardless of race, color, creed, nationality, etc. It is an attempt to expand the “room of love”. I believe that God is in love with the world and can’t keep it a secret; this is a very small way for me to let others know they are loved.
Have a blessed holy season, a Merry Christmas; may your “inn” side be filled with hope, joy, peace and love. And, friends, may your “inn” side have enough space to be a bit more inclusive than ever before.
--Ben Keckler
12.23.11
Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 22
Working on the Inn-Side
There are other rooms at the “inn”. Today I’d like to visit the room of hope and see how that room is for you these days.
The Indianapolis community is buzzing with hope about this year being the year for hosting the Super Bowl (without our hapless Colts playing). It didn’t take more than a couple of losses for pessimism to ring in the air about both playing and hosting the Super Bowl. With each additional loss, our hope has changed to who might be the #1 draft pick. Also, we are hopeful that we can be a great host city, maybe even surprise a few skeptics!
A few minutes ago I finished a luncheon with a Grief Support Group. Fifteen people gathered around the table dealing with the realities of loss in their lives. I must tell you HOPE was abounding! There the newly bereaved folk heard people who have been living for more than 6 years with losses that, at the time, were overwhelming.
As you view the “inn-side”, how is your room of hope?
--Ben Keckler
12.22.11
There are other rooms at the “inn”. Today I’d like to visit the room of hope and see how that room is for you these days.
The Indianapolis community is buzzing with hope about this year being the year for hosting the Super Bowl (without our hapless Colts playing). It didn’t take more than a couple of losses for pessimism to ring in the air about both playing and hosting the Super Bowl. With each additional loss, our hope has changed to who might be the #1 draft pick. Also, we are hopeful that we can be a great host city, maybe even surprise a few skeptics!
A few minutes ago I finished a luncheon with a Grief Support Group. Fifteen people gathered around the table dealing with the realities of loss in their lives. I must tell you HOPE was abounding! There the newly bereaved folk heard people who have been living for more than 6 years with losses that, at the time, were overwhelming.
As you view the “inn-side”, how is your room of hope?
--Ben Keckler
12.22.11
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 21
Working on the Inn-Side
Okay let’s keep on with our exploration. What room should we visit at the “inn” today? How about the room known as “joy”? (By the way, if you want to pick up on the devotional theme for the week, you can visit the archived texts for Monday and Tuesday.)
The room of joy is a room that is sometimes tough to access. Sometimes we just get too busy to sit down and enjoy the gift of life. A lot of my time is spent with persons who have experienced the loss of love through many different kinds of death or loss. The doorway to joy is slammed shut as persons deal with grief, loss and transition.
There are many, many people who are not joyful today. Most of us are not dealing with grief or loss, but we are not joyful. Can you put aside all the “stuff” you think you need to get done? Can you take some time and allow Holy Presence to flood your room of joy.
Praying that you may experience a deep and abiding joy the rest of this week.
--Ben Keckler
12.21.11
Okay let’s keep on with our exploration. What room should we visit at the “inn” today? How about the room known as “joy”? (By the way, if you want to pick up on the devotional theme for the week, you can visit the archived texts for Monday and Tuesday.)
The room of joy is a room that is sometimes tough to access. Sometimes we just get too busy to sit down and enjoy the gift of life. A lot of my time is spent with persons who have experienced the loss of love through many different kinds of death or loss. The doorway to joy is slammed shut as persons deal with grief, loss and transition.
There are many, many people who are not joyful today. Most of us are not dealing with grief or loss, but we are not joyful. Can you put aside all the “stuff” you think you need to get done? Can you take some time and allow Holy Presence to flood your room of joy.
Praying that you may experience a deep and abiding joy the rest of this week.
--Ben Keckler
12.21.11
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 20
Working on the Inn-Side
Let’s see, what room should we visit at the “inn” today? Yes, I think I have it — the room of peace and calm.
Now the opposite side of peace and calm might be called chaos. Do a bit of self-examination today, if you would. How is it on the “inn-side” of your soul these days?
Are the stresses of the season overwhelming you?
Do you have any space in the room for a pervading sense of Holy Presence to reside?
Holy Presence always finds space. Just wondering if there was a place for lodging within you these days.
Praying that you will have a peace-filled day.
--Ben Keckler
12.20.11
Let’s see, what room should we visit at the “inn” today? Yes, I think I have it — the room of peace and calm.
Now the opposite side of peace and calm might be called chaos. Do a bit of self-examination today, if you would. How is it on the “inn-side” of your soul these days?
Are the stresses of the season overwhelming you?
Do you have any space in the room for a pervading sense of Holy Presence to reside?
Holy Presence always finds space. Just wondering if there was a place for lodging within you these days.
Praying that you will have a peace-filled day.
--Ben Keckler
12.20.11
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 19
Working on the Inn-Side
One ancient story of this season is a story about journeys people took to experience a new birth. This week I’d like to “play” with one part of the story that I find most interesting. I’m pretty sure that all of us, regardless of our religious tradition, are familiar with the story of Jesus’ birth. The particular section I want to focus on is the story about how there was no room for Jesus at the local Holiday Inn. Or was it a Motel 6?
This week as each of us prepare in our own way for the holiday of Christmas, I want to explore some of those rooms that are a part of our “inn-side”. Hopefully you will be challenged to invite Holy Presence into each of these rooms. While my faith tradition is Christianity, you are free to invite Holy Presence within these rooms through whatever faith tradition you claim. A new week is unfolding. I will introduce you to a new room each day.
For today, journey to your “inn-side” and try to figure out what 4 rooms I am going to present. Consider this a warm up exercise for Christmas day as you try to guess what I’ve got “inn-side” my devotional box this week. Have a great week, friends!
--Ben Keckler
12.19.11
One ancient story of this season is a story about journeys people took to experience a new birth. This week I’d like to “play” with one part of the story that I find most interesting. I’m pretty sure that all of us, regardless of our religious tradition, are familiar with the story of Jesus’ birth. The particular section I want to focus on is the story about how there was no room for Jesus at the local Holiday Inn. Or was it a Motel 6?
This week as each of us prepare in our own way for the holiday of Christmas, I want to explore some of those rooms that are a part of our “inn-side”. Hopefully you will be challenged to invite Holy Presence into each of these rooms. While my faith tradition is Christianity, you are free to invite Holy Presence within these rooms through whatever faith tradition you claim. A new week is unfolding. I will introduce you to a new room each day.
For today, journey to your “inn-side” and try to figure out what 4 rooms I am going to present. Consider this a warm up exercise for Christmas day as you try to guess what I’ve got “inn-side” my devotional box this week. Have a great week, friends!
--Ben Keckler
12.19.11
Friday, December 16, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 16
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“For God alone my soul waits in silence;
from him comes my salvation.
God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress;
I shall never be shaken.”
--Psalm 62:1, 2
During the week we’ve examined holy days and/or seasons that make up the rhythm of “the holidays.” There is a common thread in the religious holidays of the world’s religions. Woven throughout the fabric of all religious communities is the theme that “light (divine light) is visible in the midst of personal darkness.” The language that describes this belief is demonstrated in a variety of symbolic ways. For generations, people of all faiths have taken great pride in their “stream of faith” that allows God to empower their souls. As co-participants in a global village, the present moment is a good time for us to grow in our understanding and appreciation of the ways each religion expresses their convictions.
In the chaplaincy office we have a book “A Hospital Handbook on Multiculturalism and Religion”. In this book are insights about the beliefs and practices of the major religions, as well as discussions about the significance of attitudes, rites, rituals, and dietary observances. Most who read this devotion today will be Western Christians, caught up in the busy-ness of our holiday season. Taking time to listen to the heartbeat of other faith traditions is just as important as listening for the vital signs of the patients we serve. When we do this, God alone will be our rock and another step will be taken to having a global village dwelling together in peace.
A prayer: Holy God, be near your people this Holy Season. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.16.11
“For God alone my soul waits in silence;
from him comes my salvation.
God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress;
I shall never be shaken.”
--Psalm 62:1, 2
During the week we’ve examined holy days and/or seasons that make up the rhythm of “the holidays.” There is a common thread in the religious holidays of the world’s religions. Woven throughout the fabric of all religious communities is the theme that “light (divine light) is visible in the midst of personal darkness.” The language that describes this belief is demonstrated in a variety of symbolic ways. For generations, people of all faiths have taken great pride in their “stream of faith” that allows God to empower their souls. As co-participants in a global village, the present moment is a good time for us to grow in our understanding and appreciation of the ways each religion expresses their convictions.
In the chaplaincy office we have a book “A Hospital Handbook on Multiculturalism and Religion”. In this book are insights about the beliefs and practices of the major religions, as well as discussions about the significance of attitudes, rites, rituals, and dietary observances. Most who read this devotion today will be Western Christians, caught up in the busy-ness of our holiday season. Taking time to listen to the heartbeat of other faith traditions is just as important as listening for the vital signs of the patients we serve. When we do this, God alone will be our rock and another step will be taken to having a global village dwelling together in peace.
A prayer: Holy God, be near your people this Holy Season. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.16.11
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 15
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears;
but with righteousness he will judge the need,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.”
--Isaiah 11:3
A holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week are looking at some of these holy days/holy seasons.
Western Christianity’s celebrations surrounding Christmas are probably the most festive of all religious holiday celebrations. Even during the season of preparation, commonly known as Advent, Christians are anxious to sing the carols of Christmas. In the United States it is common for all the Christmas traditions from the birth of Christ to Saint Nicholas a be displayed inside and outside of homes and businesses. Western Christians, whether in impoverished countries like Nicaragua or in affluent countries like the US and Canada, demonstrate their festive spirits in many ways. Acts of charity increase, social and religious calendars are filled and Christians welcome the gift of Emmanuel with gifts (large or small) to family and friends.
A prayer: O gift of God revealed among us, shine through our hearts this Christmas. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.15.11
“He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears;
but with righteousness he will judge the need,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.”
--Isaiah 11:3
A holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week are looking at some of these holy days/holy seasons.
Western Christianity’s celebrations surrounding Christmas are probably the most festive of all religious holiday celebrations. Even during the season of preparation, commonly known as Advent, Christians are anxious to sing the carols of Christmas. In the United States it is common for all the Christmas traditions from the birth of Christ to Saint Nicholas a be displayed inside and outside of homes and businesses. Western Christians, whether in impoverished countries like Nicaragua or in affluent countries like the US and Canada, demonstrate their festive spirits in many ways. Acts of charity increase, social and religious calendars are filled and Christians welcome the gift of Emmanuel with gifts (large or small) to family and friends.
A prayer: O gift of God revealed among us, shine through our hearts this Christmas. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.15.11
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 14
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
--Psalm 27:1
Holidays. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, like the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at a few of these holy days/ holy seasons.
Soon the Jewish community commences a celebration known as the Festival of Lights and the Feast of Dedication. The season is Hanukkah or Chanukkah. Each evening during the season, Jewish families and communities light an additional candle on their menorahs until all eight are burning. The 27th Psalm gives a poetic backdrop for what these people of faith are celebrating.
The festival season commemorates the rededication of the holy Temple after the Jews defeated the Hellenist Syrians (Greeks) in 165 BC. Three years prior (168 BC) the temple was seized and dedicated to the worship of Zeus and a battle for control of the holy place was waged. Judah Maccabee and his soldiers, upon claiming victory, went to the holy Temple and were saddened that many things were missing or broken, including the golden menorah. They decided to rededicate the temple and light the menorah. Legend tells us they finally found some oil, enough for one day. Miraculously, however, the oil lasted for eight days. Now, the season is remembered by lighting menorah candles each night for the eight days; during this time the people celebrate the power of God and the faithfulness of Israel.
A prayer: God, who has been and still is the light and salvation of those who trust in you, be my light and salvation again today as I work among your creation. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.14.11
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
--Psalm 27:1
Holidays. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, like the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at a few of these holy days/ holy seasons.
Soon the Jewish community commences a celebration known as the Festival of Lights and the Feast of Dedication. The season is Hanukkah or Chanukkah. Each evening during the season, Jewish families and communities light an additional candle on their menorahs until all eight are burning. The 27th Psalm gives a poetic backdrop for what these people of faith are celebrating.
The festival season commemorates the rededication of the holy Temple after the Jews defeated the Hellenist Syrians (Greeks) in 165 BC. Three years prior (168 BC) the temple was seized and dedicated to the worship of Zeus and a battle for control of the holy place was waged. Judah Maccabee and his soldiers, upon claiming victory, went to the holy Temple and were saddened that many things were missing or broken, including the golden menorah. They decided to rededicate the temple and light the menorah. Legend tells us they finally found some oil, enough for one day. Miraculously, however, the oil lasted for eight days. Now, the season is remembered by lighting menorah candles each night for the eight days; during this time the people celebrate the power of God and the faithfulness of Israel.
A prayer: God, who has been and still is the light and salvation of those who trust in you, be my light and salvation again today as I work among your creation. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.14.11
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 13
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“I will create new heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”
--Isaiah 65.17
Holidays. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at a couple of these holy days/holy seasons.
During the week from Christmas to New Year’s, there is a festival called Kwanzaa. This celebration is a faith-based observance primarily celebrated by many North Americans of West African descent. A seven-branched candelabrum is used to call the celebrants to focus on important attributes for living life with integrity. The attributes include the following: unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Each day of the festival another candle is lit and participants focus on the meaning of one of these characteristics.
New festivals emerge in culture, often rooted in old traditions. It is important to learn about them and understand their significance. Taking the time to incorporate the unfamiliar with our time-honored traditions, we may very well find a meaning of the text for today. The characteristics examined during Kwanzaa deserve special attention in every person’s life.
A prayer: Creator God, continually open us to the new things you have for your creation. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.13.11
“I will create new heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”
--Isaiah 65.17
Holidays. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind. First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we are looking at a couple of these holy days/holy seasons.
During the week from Christmas to New Year’s, there is a festival called Kwanzaa. This celebration is a faith-based observance primarily celebrated by many North Americans of West African descent. A seven-branched candelabrum is used to call the celebrants to focus on important attributes for living life with integrity. The attributes include the following: unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Each day of the festival another candle is lit and participants focus on the meaning of one of these characteristics.
New festivals emerge in culture, often rooted in old traditions. It is important to learn about them and understand their significance. Taking the time to incorporate the unfamiliar with our time-honored traditions, we may very well find a meaning of the text for today. The characteristics examined during Kwanzaa deserve special attention in every person’s life.
A prayer: Creator God, continually open us to the new things you have for your creation. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.13.11
Monday, December 12, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 12
Holy Days, Holy Seasons
“And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
--Isaiah 9:6b
Holidays. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind, don’t they? First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we will look at a couple of these holy days/holy seasons.
Christianity, the largest of the world’s religions, actually celebrates the holy day of Christmas in a variety of ways. A significant number of Christians are known as Eastern Orthodox Christians. Eastern Christianity is significantly different from Western Christianity—both are Christian and probably would not even recognize their common lineage during this holiday season. Today we think about Eastern Christianity.
The Christmas holiday is not very significant in Eastern tradition. There is some festivity surrounding the Holy Family and the Holy Child, of whom the prophet said would have many names. Orthodox churches that are found in our Western culture (Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Serbian Orthodox to give a few) may adapt some of the Western traditions, like exchanging of gifts. Generally this is a difficult struggle for these Orthodox believers who tend to be more liturgically centered, approaching the day with more regard for worship than family festivity. Our nation is filled with Western practices relating to Christmas and sometimes it is difficult to understand that some believers don’t make a “big deal” about this special holiday.
The prophet stated that the child who was born would have many names. It seems right, then, that there would be many ways to recognize his birth. Thanks to God for the gift of the Eastern Orthodox practice of Christianity. Please be aware that we have both associates and patients from various Eastern Orthodox traditions at our hospital.
A prayer: God, who comes to this world again and again, may we always honor the many ways your people recognize you. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.12.11
“And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
--Isaiah 9:6b
Holidays. We think of that word and a number of pictures come to mind, don’t they? First and foremost a holiday is a Holy Day, a festival day set aside for people to celebrate a sacred happening. Some Holy Days spread themselves out into a series of days, an example being the “twelve days of Christmas”. Several of the world’s major religions have holy seasons during this part of the calendar year. This week we will look at a couple of these holy days/holy seasons.
Christianity, the largest of the world’s religions, actually celebrates the holy day of Christmas in a variety of ways. A significant number of Christians are known as Eastern Orthodox Christians. Eastern Christianity is significantly different from Western Christianity—both are Christian and probably would not even recognize their common lineage during this holiday season. Today we think about Eastern Christianity.
The Christmas holiday is not very significant in Eastern tradition. There is some festivity surrounding the Holy Family and the Holy Child, of whom the prophet said would have many names. Orthodox churches that are found in our Western culture (Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Serbian Orthodox to give a few) may adapt some of the Western traditions, like exchanging of gifts. Generally this is a difficult struggle for these Orthodox believers who tend to be more liturgically centered, approaching the day with more regard for worship than family festivity. Our nation is filled with Western practices relating to Christmas and sometimes it is difficult to understand that some believers don’t make a “big deal” about this special holiday.
The prophet stated that the child who was born would have many names. It seems right, then, that there would be many ways to recognize his birth. Thanks to God for the gift of the Eastern Orthodox practice of Christianity. Please be aware that we have both associates and patients from various Eastern Orthodox traditions at our hospital.
A prayer: God, who comes to this world again and again, may we always honor the many ways your people recognize you. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.12.11
Friday, December 9, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 9
Splendid Simplicity
We are in a season when culture seems to spin chaotically out of control. This week we have focused our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
With thanks for guidance through the week, guide me throughout my weekend to the unfinished tasks of preparation. Then, teach me to bask in the splendid simplicity of Love throughout this sacred season.
--Ben Keckler
12.09.11
We are in a season when culture seems to spin chaotically out of control. This week we have focused our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
With thanks for guidance through the week, guide me throughout my weekend to the unfinished tasks of preparation. Then, teach me to bask in the splendid simplicity of Love throughout this sacred season.
--Ben Keckler
12.09.11
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 8
Splendid Simplicity
This is a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control. During this season, we are focusing our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
Help me accept Love as it is given to me, even though it may not come in the package I requested.
--Ben Keckler
12.08.11
This is a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control. During this season, we are focusing our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
Help me accept Love as it is given to me, even though it may not come in the package I requested.
--Ben Keckler
12.08.11
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, December 7
Splendid Simplicity
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we are focusing our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
The brisk breezes and bright snows of winter seem to wake us up and bring refreshment amidst the gray of wintry days and the early darkness of wintry nights. Bring your refreshing breeze and your gentle snowfall upon all whose burdens are heavy today.
--Ben Keckler
12.07.11
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we are focusing our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
The brisk breezes and bright snows of winter seem to wake us up and bring refreshment amidst the gray of wintry days and the early darkness of wintry nights. Bring your refreshing breeze and your gentle snowfall upon all whose burdens are heavy today.
--Ben Keckler
12.07.11
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, December 6
Splendid Simplicity
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we will focus our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
In this season when it is easiest to cut down the evergreen, teach me the difficult lesson of remaining “green” year round, especially when winters of doubt and darkness seem to surround me. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.06.11
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we will focus our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
In this season when it is easiest to cut down the evergreen, teach me the difficult lesson of remaining “green” year round, especially when winters of doubt and darkness seem to surround me. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.06.11
Monday, December 5, 2011
Daily Devotion - Monday, December 5
Splendid Simplicity
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we will focus our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
As a new week begins, help me focus on the tasks for today. I confess there is unfinished business from the weekend; I realize it can sometimes creep into my thought patterns at work. Grant me the clarity I need for work today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.05.11
In a season when culture seems to be spinning chaotically out of control, we will focus our devotions on brief prayers that speak to the rhythms of our lives.
Holy One,
As a new week begins, help me focus on the tasks for today. I confess there is unfinished business from the weekend; I realize it can sometimes creep into my thought patterns at work. Grant me the clarity I need for work today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
12.05.11
Friday, December 2, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 2
Reflecting on Last Week
Realizing that the poor will always be a part of our lives and that most of us could be there quickly if our fortunes changed, I offer this prayer to conclude our two weeks of devotions focused on challenging us to live lives of gratitude:
All-knowing God, show us the poor—
Not just the ones who have been pushed aside in the wake of competition,
but the ones who are losing self-confidence,
the ones who are victims of the system they helped to build,
the ones whose jobs no longer exist.
Show us that there also is a poverty of the heart
when saving is more important than sharing.
Help us to find security in sharing all our resources so that through our total effort,
we will answer your call
we will learn the value of kinship with all
and we will discover that sharing by all can mean scarcity for none.
Have a wonderful weekend in whatever you do.
--Ben Keckler
12.02.11
Realizing that the poor will always be a part of our lives and that most of us could be there quickly if our fortunes changed, I offer this prayer to conclude our two weeks of devotions focused on challenging us to live lives of gratitude:
All-knowing God, show us the poor—
Not just the ones who have been pushed aside in the wake of competition,
but the ones who are losing self-confidence,
the ones who are victims of the system they helped to build,
the ones whose jobs no longer exist.
Show us that there also is a poverty of the heart
when saving is more important than sharing.
Help us to find security in sharing all our resources so that through our total effort,
we will answer your call
we will learn the value of kinship with all
and we will discover that sharing by all can mean scarcity for none.
Have a wonderful weekend in whatever you do.
--Ben Keckler
12.02.11
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 2
Healing Words
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices
Who wondrous things has done
In you this world rejoices.
Who from our mother’s arms,
You’ve blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love
Which still are ours today.
Today is another day where associates at hospitals around our land are practicing the art of care giving while other associates are on-call and other associates are enjoying a day off. THANK YOU to all associates who are working today. Sometimes we just don't get to hear those simple words that mean so much. It may be a week after thanksgiving, but it is still appropriate to say “THANK YOU.”
We have all been blessed with countless gifts of love and today, whether in our homes, here at the hospital or somewhere else, may we stop and be thankful.
--Ben Keckler
12.01.11
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices
Who wondrous things has done
In you this world rejoices.
Who from our mother’s arms,
You’ve blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love
Which still are ours today.
Today is another day where associates at hospitals around our land are practicing the art of care giving while other associates are on-call and other associates are enjoying a day off. THANK YOU to all associates who are working today. Sometimes we just don't get to hear those simple words that mean so much. It may be a week after thanksgiving, but it is still appropriate to say “THANK YOU.”
We have all been blessed with countless gifts of love and today, whether in our homes, here at the hospital or somewhere else, may we stop and be thankful.
--Ben Keckler
12.01.11
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