Another Word about Love?
Work is generally challenging and rewarding.
I work in a place where bringing health, healing and life is our primary goal. I work in a place where experiencing death, grief and loss are not supposed to happen, but they do! The reality is I journey with people in every rhythm of the life experience. One wisdom writer said, “there is a time for every season”.
There is one significant opportunity I have working in a care giving institution — the challenge to demonstrate love, care and compassion. Whether in life or in death, I can be a person whose loving spirit lets clients feel loved.
We’ve focused on the theme of love quite a bit this month. Know that you are loved!! “Beloved, let us love one another. For love is of God and everyone that loves is born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4:7)
--Ben Keckler
02.28.12
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 27
Remembering
Over the years we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having spent several weeks reading and listening to Henri Nouwen and even sitting at the dinner table with him, he feels like a friend, but a better term is “acquaintance.” Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death, but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
Recently I have been brought to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, grief, loss, and hopeful recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following excerpt, from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being ‘better again’ was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help in understanding the wrestling felt by many. Have a good day, a blessed week and enjoy every minute of life.
--Ben Keckler
02.27.12
Over the years we meet people who have a profound impact on our lives. Having spent several weeks reading and listening to Henri Nouwen and even sitting at the dinner table with him, he feels like a friend, but a better term is “acquaintance.” Henri was walking to work one day and was struck by the mirror of a passing motorist. His injuries took him to the door of death, but he did recover and wrote a wonderful reflection on life and death. The book is titled Beyond the Mirror.
Recently I have been brought to a number of folks who are reflecting on the end of life, grief, loss, and hopeful recovery from serious illnesses or diseases. For whatever reason, Henri came to mind. The following excerpt, from the chapter on recovery:
“The way my friends reacted to my recovery caused me to reflect on the way life and death are perceived in our society. Unanimously, they congratulated me on my restoration to health and expressed their gratitude that I was doing so well again. Although I was deeply grateful for the attention and affection, the encounter with God in my hours near death made me wonder whether being ‘better again’ was indeed the best thing for me.”
Maybe these reflective words from a fellow journeyer can help in understanding the wrestling felt by many. Have a good day, a blessed week and enjoy every minute of life.
--Ben Keckler
02.27.12
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 24
The Roller Coaster Ride
“What is this roller coaster, a nightmare,
Or is it part of my journey from here to there?”
One of the lessons that grief walking teaches us is this: When facing a significant loss or transition (not just a death) in our lives, our emotions generally go for a wild roller coaster ride.
The highs can be identified as happy, glad, joy. The lows can be identified as lonely, sad, mad. At one moment you can feel a high and then suddenly, without warning, the roller coaster dips to an unbelievable low. As you experience the rapid free-fall from high to low you throw your hands in the air, you try to contain your scream but generally give up and let it all out. Or, you grip the safety bar holding you in and everything inside just plain tenses up!
Needless to say, there are some jerky curves along the way as you start another ascent from the pit to yet another high. These reality jerks assure you that you survived the low and that, whether you like it or not, you are alive and are preparing for the next experiences of your roller coaster journey through life.
The rhythm continues until the end comes and a new normal is established.
As I reflect on our life at Hendricks Regional Health, I realize that in part we are in a state of anticipatory grief walking, prepare for a major transition next week. So for today, I will claim that I am anticipating some grief walk and I will brace my emotional self for the lonely, sad, mad part of my roller coaster ride.
Enjoy your weekend and enjoy next week’s roller coaster!
--Ben Keckler
02.24.12
“What is this roller coaster, a nightmare,
Or is it part of my journey from here to there?”
One of the lessons that grief walking teaches us is this: When facing a significant loss or transition (not just a death) in our lives, our emotions generally go for a wild roller coaster ride.
The highs can be identified as happy, glad, joy. The lows can be identified as lonely, sad, mad. At one moment you can feel a high and then suddenly, without warning, the roller coaster dips to an unbelievable low. As you experience the rapid free-fall from high to low you throw your hands in the air, you try to contain your scream but generally give up and let it all out. Or, you grip the safety bar holding you in and everything inside just plain tenses up!
Needless to say, there are some jerky curves along the way as you start another ascent from the pit to yet another high. These reality jerks assure you that you survived the low and that, whether you like it or not, you are alive and are preparing for the next experiences of your roller coaster journey through life.
The rhythm continues until the end comes and a new normal is established.
As I reflect on our life at Hendricks Regional Health, I realize that in part we are in a state of anticipatory grief walking, prepare for a major transition next week. So for today, I will claim that I am anticipating some grief walk and I will brace my emotional self for the lonely, sad, mad part of my roller coaster ride.
Enjoy your weekend and enjoy next week’s roller coaster!
--Ben Keckler
02.24.12
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 23
A Resource for Troubling Times
Trouble. The word looms large in today’s world – from individual troubles confronting the patients seeking care here, to global troubles confronting the international scene. Trouble. It may even be a big word for your inner being today.
In this increasingly apocalyptic world, it is reassuring to know that fear does not need to dominate our lives. Over the centuries there have been witnesses who have pointed people toward a way of living faithfully “in times of trouble.”
• The Desert Fathers fled to an unpopulated area.
• A Roman aristocrat, Arsenius, heard these words from a sage counselor he consulted, “Flee from the world, be silent and pray always.”
What kind of response is a healthy response in times of trouble?
Try solitude, friends. Take some time to be alone and just meditate, listen to silence. In fact, don’t take time with the chaplain’s devotions or with Sacred Scripture (obviously I do believe both are important)! Take time to listen to the silence and you too will discover the words of the Psalm are true and trustworthy, “Why should I fear…God will ransom my soul and receive me.” Have a good, good day!
--Ben Keckler
02.23.12
Trouble. The word looms large in today’s world – from individual troubles confronting the patients seeking care here, to global troubles confronting the international scene. Trouble. It may even be a big word for your inner being today.
In this increasingly apocalyptic world, it is reassuring to know that fear does not need to dominate our lives. Over the centuries there have been witnesses who have pointed people toward a way of living faithfully “in times of trouble.”
• The Desert Fathers fled to an unpopulated area.
• A Roman aristocrat, Arsenius, heard these words from a sage counselor he consulted, “Flee from the world, be silent and pray always.”
What kind of response is a healthy response in times of trouble?
Try solitude, friends. Take some time to be alone and just meditate, listen to silence. In fact, don’t take time with the chaplain’s devotions or with Sacred Scripture (obviously I do believe both are important)! Take time to listen to the silence and you too will discover the words of the Psalm are true and trustworthy, “Why should I fear…God will ransom my soul and receive me.” Have a good, good day!
--Ben Keckler
02.23.12
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 22
Where Is the Love?
“All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance
and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.”
--Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Loving our work is so very important. Our work through Hendricks Regional Health is to uplift those who are experiencing “down” moments in their lives. Dr. King reminds us that our work has dignity and importance. He also challenges us or calls us to perform our work with painstaking excellence.
If we allow Divine love to surround us and support us in everything we do in the workplace, then we will radiate a love for our work and we will only perform our tasks with painstaking excellence.
To answer the title question from above, I suggest that the answer is: INSIDE ME/YOU!
--Ben Keckler
02.22.12
“All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance
and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.”
--Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Loving our work is so very important. Our work through Hendricks Regional Health is to uplift those who are experiencing “down” moments in their lives. Dr. King reminds us that our work has dignity and importance. He also challenges us or calls us to perform our work with painstaking excellence.
If we allow Divine love to surround us and support us in everything we do in the workplace, then we will radiate a love for our work and we will only perform our tasks with painstaking excellence.
To answer the title question from above, I suggest that the answer is: INSIDE ME/YOU!
--Ben Keckler
02.22.12
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 21
Where Is the Love?
“The Lord is good;
God’s steadfast love endures forever,
And faithfulness to all generations.”
--Lyrics from a Hebrew song (Psalm 100:5)
One of the frequent phrases in Hebrew hymnology is “the steadfast love of the Lord.” These ancient songwriters realized that the Holy One remains steadfast even when we choose to live rather self-centered lives. There is a wonderful book entitled, The Prophet, and in that text the writer observes:
“Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
for they have their own thoughts.”
Think about the really important gift that our children, our loved ones and our friends really want. My now “grown and on their own children” probably do not want to know my thoughts. If they do, they will ask. In the meantime, my non-ordered tasks are:
1. Assuring them that their father’s deep and endless love faithfully surrounds them and
2. Pointing them toward the “steadfast love of the Lord” that endures forever.
Authentically performing these two tasks is my personal challenge! If you care to “try on” these tasks, feel free to do so.
A prayer for today:
Loving God, may your love flow through me today and always. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
02.21.12
“The Lord is good;
God’s steadfast love endures forever,
And faithfulness to all generations.”
--Lyrics from a Hebrew song (Psalm 100:5)
One of the frequent phrases in Hebrew hymnology is “the steadfast love of the Lord.” These ancient songwriters realized that the Holy One remains steadfast even when we choose to live rather self-centered lives. There is a wonderful book entitled, The Prophet, and in that text the writer observes:
“Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
for they have their own thoughts.”
Think about the really important gift that our children, our loved ones and our friends really want. My now “grown and on their own children” probably do not want to know my thoughts. If they do, they will ask. In the meantime, my non-ordered tasks are:
1. Assuring them that their father’s deep and endless love faithfully surrounds them and
2. Pointing them toward the “steadfast love of the Lord” that endures forever.
Authentically performing these two tasks is my personal challenge! If you care to “try on” these tasks, feel free to do so.
A prayer for today:
Loving God, may your love flow through me today and always. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
02.21.12
Monday, February 20, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 20
Where Is the Love?
“A friend loves at all times,
And a brother/sister is born for adversity.”
--Teachings from Wisdom literature (Proverbs 17: 17)
Stopping to think about all the ways people tried to communicate “I love you” last Tuesday would be mind-boggling. That holiday is designed for people to share with one another tangible statements of our affection. I hope you enjoyed the day!
Today is also a good day to express your “I love you” to those who have shaped your life. Spending some time in meditation, remembering family members who have died and family members who are miles and miles away can nurture significant relationships. Spending some time with people you know who are lonely and grieving is another way to deepen the significance of living in community.
Take some quiet time today. Think about friends who are experiencing adverse times and assure them that they are loved. Think about those who have helped in your formation process and allow that old relationship to take on new meaning. Spread the love, from your heart to the hearts of others. As we take that kind of time, we will experience a blessed start to our week! Go for it, friends! Enjoy the day!
--Ben Keckler
02.20.12
“A friend loves at all times,
And a brother/sister is born for adversity.”
--Teachings from Wisdom literature (Proverbs 17: 17)
Stopping to think about all the ways people tried to communicate “I love you” last Tuesday would be mind-boggling. That holiday is designed for people to share with one another tangible statements of our affection. I hope you enjoyed the day!
Today is also a good day to express your “I love you” to those who have shaped your life. Spending some time in meditation, remembering family members who have died and family members who are miles and miles away can nurture significant relationships. Spending some time with people you know who are lonely and grieving is another way to deepen the significance of living in community.
Take some quiet time today. Think about friends who are experiencing adverse times and assure them that they are loved. Think about those who have helped in your formation process and allow that old relationship to take on new meaning. Spread the love, from your heart to the hearts of others. As we take that kind of time, we will experience a blessed start to our week! Go for it, friends! Enjoy the day!
--Ben Keckler
02.20.12
Friday, February 17, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 17
Preparing for the Weekend
Ralph Waldo Emerson was one of the great writers and thinkers of the 1800’s. He was a poet and a philosopher, a mystic and an ordained clergyman whose only parish experience was at Old North Church in Boston, Massachusetts. I have always treasured many of his insights and want to share this one with you, hoping you will reflect on his words throughout the weekend:
“The whole course of existence goes to teach us faith.
We need only obey.
There is guidance for each of us and by listening we shall hear the right word….
Place yourself in the middle of the stream of power and wisdom,
A stream that flows into you as life.
Place yourself in the full center of that stream,
then you are without effort
Impelled to truth, to right and to perfect contentment.”
This quote seems worthy of integrating into life! Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
02.17.12
Ralph Waldo Emerson was one of the great writers and thinkers of the 1800’s. He was a poet and a philosopher, a mystic and an ordained clergyman whose only parish experience was at Old North Church in Boston, Massachusetts. I have always treasured many of his insights and want to share this one with you, hoping you will reflect on his words throughout the weekend:
“The whole course of existence goes to teach us faith.
We need only obey.
There is guidance for each of us and by listening we shall hear the right word….
Place yourself in the middle of the stream of power and wisdom,
A stream that flows into you as life.
Place yourself in the full center of that stream,
then you are without effort
Impelled to truth, to right and to perfect contentment.”
This quote seems worthy of integrating into life! Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
02.17.12
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 16
Just Wonderin’
How would it be if just for today
We thought less about contests and rivalries,
Profits and politics,
Winners and sinners,
And more about helping and giving,
Mending and blending,
Reaching out and pitching in?
How would it be?
--Ben Keckler
02.16.12
How would it be if just for today
We thought less about contests and rivalries,
Profits and politics,
Winners and sinners,
And more about helping and giving,
Mending and blending,
Reaching out and pitching in?
How would it be?
--Ben Keckler
02.16.12
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 15
The Day after Valentine’s Day
“Everyone has forgotten me, as though I were dead;
I am like something thrown away.”
--An observation by Job (31:12)
One of the books in my library is a book by Malcolm Muggeridge, probably known best for his broadcasts for the British Broadcasting Company. The book is about Mother Teresa, titled Something Beautiful for God. One chapter of the book is a dialogue between them as Muggeridge tries to understand what motivated Mother Teresa and the sisters to compassionately reach out to people who felt a lot like Job felt (see the above quote). Here is what she shared about her work among the poor in Calcutta:
“In these twenty years of work amongst the people,
I have come more and more to realize that it is being unwanted
That is the worst disease that any human being can ever experience.
Nowadays we have found medicine for lepers
and lepers can be cured.
There’s medicine for TB and consumptives can be cured.
For all kinds of diseases there are medicines and cures.
But for being unwanted, except there are willing hands to serve
and there’s a loving heart to love,
I don’t think this terrible disease of unwantedness
can ever be cured.”
Just thought you might want to ponder this quote as you go about life on the day after Valentine’s Day.
--Ben Keckler
02.15.12
“Everyone has forgotten me, as though I were dead;
I am like something thrown away.”
--An observation by Job (31:12)
One of the books in my library is a book by Malcolm Muggeridge, probably known best for his broadcasts for the British Broadcasting Company. The book is about Mother Teresa, titled Something Beautiful for God. One chapter of the book is a dialogue between them as Muggeridge tries to understand what motivated Mother Teresa and the sisters to compassionately reach out to people who felt a lot like Job felt (see the above quote). Here is what she shared about her work among the poor in Calcutta:
“In these twenty years of work amongst the people,
I have come more and more to realize that it is being unwanted
That is the worst disease that any human being can ever experience.
Nowadays we have found medicine for lepers
and lepers can be cured.
There’s medicine for TB and consumptives can be cured.
For all kinds of diseases there are medicines and cures.
But for being unwanted, except there are willing hands to serve
and there’s a loving heart to love,
I don’t think this terrible disease of unwantedness
can ever be cured.”
Just thought you might want to ponder this quote as you go about life on the day after Valentine’s Day.
--Ben Keckler
02.15.12
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 14
Competition or Compassion
“May your constant love be with us, Lord,
as we put our hope in you.”
--From an ancient song (Psalm 33:22)
Happy Valentine’s Day
A quote to ponder: “If there is one notion that is central to all great religions it is that of “compassion.” The sacred scriptures of the Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, Jews and Christians all speak about God as the God of compassion. In a world in which competition continues to be the dominant mode of relating among people, be it in politics, sports or economics, all true believers proclaim compassion, not competition, as the way of God.”
--Here and Now, p. 98 – Henri Nouwen
May each act of Valentine’s Day 2012 be filled with compassion as you care for self and others!
--Ben Keckler
02.14.12
“May your constant love be with us, Lord,
as we put our hope in you.”
--From an ancient song (Psalm 33:22)
Happy Valentine’s Day
A quote to ponder: “If there is one notion that is central to all great religions it is that of “compassion.” The sacred scriptures of the Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, Jews and Christians all speak about God as the God of compassion. In a world in which competition continues to be the dominant mode of relating among people, be it in politics, sports or economics, all true believers proclaim compassion, not competition, as the way of God.”
--Here and Now, p. 98 – Henri Nouwen
May each act of Valentine’s Day 2012 be filled with compassion as you care for self and others!
--Ben Keckler
02.14.12
Monday, February 13, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 13
Exploring Feelings
Faith Reflections on emotions we experience
“You have changed my sadness into a joyful dance!”
--A line from an ancient Hebrew hymn (30:11)
I just love this line. It tells me that sad and glad are never far apart. We tend to think that a person cannot experience them at the same time. I think you can! Often I spend some very precious moments with families who experience their last moments with another family member. Let me tell you about one of those family experiences that helped me understand that sad and glad are like “heads and tails on a coin.”
Gathered in a room they stood. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing.
There was sadness. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing. We cried and told a story or two.
There was gladness. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing. We smiled and told a story or two.
Both feelings were dancing inside of the family members and they kept “flipping the coin” between sad and glad.
We paused in silence, we prayed, we expressed sad and glad. So, I’d like to submit today that whenever you are glad, make sure you explore the sad side of the coin. AND, whenever you are sad, make sure you look on the glad side. Seems to me it is a pretty good way to journey through life. Have a great week.
--Ben Keckler
02.13.12
Faith Reflections on emotions we experience
“You have changed my sadness into a joyful dance!”
--A line from an ancient Hebrew hymn (30:11)
I just love this line. It tells me that sad and glad are never far apart. We tend to think that a person cannot experience them at the same time. I think you can! Often I spend some very precious moments with families who experience their last moments with another family member. Let me tell you about one of those family experiences that helped me understand that sad and glad are like “heads and tails on a coin.”
Gathered in a room they stood. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing.
There was sadness. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing. We cried and told a story or two.
There was gladness. A woman who had graced this world with her presence for 80 plus years was no longer breathing. We smiled and told a story or two.
Both feelings were dancing inside of the family members and they kept “flipping the coin” between sad and glad.
We paused in silence, we prayed, we expressed sad and glad. So, I’d like to submit today that whenever you are glad, make sure you explore the sad side of the coin. AND, whenever you are sad, make sure you look on the glad side. Seems to me it is a pretty good way to journey through life. Have a great week.
--Ben Keckler
02.13.12
Friday, February 10, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 10
Thoughts at Mid-Winter
The devotions this week are written before “Groundhog Day”. I am pretty certain we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts can prove helpful.
“To achieve great things, two things are needed:
A plan
And not quite enough time.”
--Leonard Bernstein
I would assume the originator of this quote is well known to you. If not go on-line and discover what a talent Mr. Bernstein was. I would write more, but I believe there are some great things that you and I can achieve. If you don’t know what your “great thing” is, use the weekend and develop your plan. If you do know, quit letting me take your time.
Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
02.10.12
The devotions this week are written before “Groundhog Day”. I am pretty certain we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts can prove helpful.
“To achieve great things, two things are needed:
A plan
And not quite enough time.”
--Leonard Bernstein
I would assume the originator of this quote is well known to you. If not go on-line and discover what a talent Mr. Bernstein was. I would write more, but I believe there are some great things that you and I can achieve. If you don’t know what your “great thing” is, use the weekend and develop your plan. If you do know, quit letting me take your time.
Have a blessed weekend.
--Ben Keckler
02.10.12
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 9
Thoughts at Mid-Winter
This week’s devotions were written before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“He who would accomplish little must sacrifice little;
He who would accomplish much must sacrifice much.”
--James Allen
One hundred years ago a pioneer of the self-help movement died. The story of James Allen is a most touching story and I would encourage you to read about him. His father came to America after economic woes forced him to leave England and two days after his arrival he was murdered. James had to quit school and find work. Eventually his industry led him to writing. His best known work is probably As A Man Thinketh.
Meditate on today’s quote. What insights might you gain about self?
--Ben Keckler
02.09.12
This week’s devotions were written before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“He who would accomplish little must sacrifice little;
He who would accomplish much must sacrifice much.”
--James Allen
One hundred years ago a pioneer of the self-help movement died. The story of James Allen is a most touching story and I would encourage you to read about him. His father came to America after economic woes forced him to leave England and two days after his arrival he was murdered. James had to quit school and find work. Eventually his industry led him to writing. His best known work is probably As A Man Thinketh.
Meditate on today’s quote. What insights might you gain about self?
--Ben Keckler
02.09.12
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 8
Thoughts at Mid-Winter
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether the groundhog sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of winter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts can prove helpful.
“The greatest achievement of the human spirit
is to live up to one’s opportunities and
make the most of one’s resources.”
--Marquis de Vauvenargues
Today’s quote comes from the French writer who died at the far too youthful age of 31. He was encouraged to write by Voltaire, the great French philosopher and commentator on civil liberties. The Marquis’ works were not circulated broadly until 50 years after his death and became well known about a century after his death.
Many would not consider an achievement great unless recognition was given. The Marquis lived up to his opportunities and made the most of what he had, even though recognition of his gifts and contributions was not truly noted until decades later.
The mid-winter questions might be: What opportunities are before you? Can you make better use of your resources?
--Ben Keckler
02.08.11
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether the groundhog sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of winter, generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts can prove helpful.
“The greatest achievement of the human spirit
is to live up to one’s opportunities and
make the most of one’s resources.”
--Marquis de Vauvenargues
Today’s quote comes from the French writer who died at the far too youthful age of 31. He was encouraged to write by Voltaire, the great French philosopher and commentator on civil liberties. The Marquis’ works were not circulated broadly until 50 years after his death and became well known about a century after his death.
Many would not consider an achievement great unless recognition was given. The Marquis lived up to his opportunities and made the most of what he had, even though recognition of his gifts and contributions was not truly noted until decades later.
The mid-winter questions might be: What opportunities are before you? Can you make better use of your resources?
--Ben Keckler
02.08.11
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 7
Thoughts at Mid-Winter
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“I long to accomplish a great and noble task;
but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks
as if they were great and noble.”
--Helen Keller
I have the privilege of watching this quote lived out as I go about my daily work and so do you. Here at our hospital there are some racks that are filled with little 8 page booklets known as Care Notes. Up to 1,000 of those care notes disappear from this hospital each month. Quite a few of you noticed that the racks were quite depleted recently and wondered what had happened.
We have a volunteer who sees her chief duty as making certain the care note racks are full. She needed to be away from us for a little over a month and I chose to let her task remain undone until her return. She believes it is her duty, her calling to serve her community in this way. It may seem like a small task but she does it well and about 1,000 people a month are grateful. Thanks, Mary!
--Ben Keckler
02.07.12
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“I long to accomplish a great and noble task;
but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks
as if they were great and noble.”
--Helen Keller
I have the privilege of watching this quote lived out as I go about my daily work and so do you. Here at our hospital there are some racks that are filled with little 8 page booklets known as Care Notes. Up to 1,000 of those care notes disappear from this hospital each month. Quite a few of you noticed that the racks were quite depleted recently and wondered what had happened.
We have a volunteer who sees her chief duty as making certain the care note racks are full. She needed to be away from us for a little over a month and I chose to let her task remain undone until her return. She believes it is her duty, her calling to serve her community in this way. It may seem like a small task but she does it well and about 1,000 people a month are grateful. Thanks, Mary!
--Ben Keckler
02.07.12
Monday, February 6, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 6
Thoughts at Mid-Winter
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.”
--Sir Edmund Hillary
Edmund Hillary knew how to conquer mountains. There is something special about going to a high point and observing the world from that vantage point. My wife and I recently began visiting the high points in each state. Do you know where Indiana’s highpoint is?
Edmund Hillary also understood that the toughest mountain to climb is the one where we stand and gaze deep into our inner being, seeking to discover self. When we journey inward and discover the resources of our soul, we can “climb every mountain and ford every stream.” I wish you well on your journey and encourage you to remember the words of a great old spiritual:
“Lord don’t move the mountain, just give me the strength to climb.”
--Ben Keckler
02.06.12
I decided to write the devotions for this week before “Groundhog Day”; I am pretty certain that we will have six more weeks of winter whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not. In the bleakness of midwinter generating energy can sometimes be tough. Maybe these thoughts at mid-winter can prove helpful.
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.”
--Sir Edmund Hillary
Edmund Hillary knew how to conquer mountains. There is something special about going to a high point and observing the world from that vantage point. My wife and I recently began visiting the high points in each state. Do you know where Indiana’s highpoint is?
Edmund Hillary also understood that the toughest mountain to climb is the one where we stand and gaze deep into our inner being, seeking to discover self. When we journey inward and discover the resources of our soul, we can “climb every mountain and ford every stream.” I wish you well on your journey and encourage you to remember the words of a great old spiritual:
“Lord don’t move the mountain, just give me the strength to climb.”
--Ben Keckler
02.06.12
Friday, February 3, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 3
Prelude to the Super Bowl
I’ve been enjoying Super Bowl week here in Indianapolis. I’m a fan of football but not necessarily the Giants or the Patriots. I am just hoping for a really good game and lots of great press about Indianapolis. I am most impressed by the work that organizers and planners have done to create a welcoming environment for those who arrive for the game.
Each team has some really outstanding players, both teams are in this championship game because they have learned what it means to be a team. The fans and the media try their best to make this game about various individuals but the players are all about their organization, their team.
There are many lessons to be learned from both the planning committee for their significant planning as well as the teams. For now, I am completely content to just dream about the big game and maintaining my belief that a bunch of folks from Indianapolis have worked diligently to show the world that we are NOT “nap-town” any longer.
THANKS INDIANAPOLIS!
--Ben Keckler
02.03.12
I’ve been enjoying Super Bowl week here in Indianapolis. I’m a fan of football but not necessarily the Giants or the Patriots. I am just hoping for a really good game and lots of great press about Indianapolis. I am most impressed by the work that organizers and planners have done to create a welcoming environment for those who arrive for the game.
Each team has some really outstanding players, both teams are in this championship game because they have learned what it means to be a team. The fans and the media try their best to make this game about various individuals but the players are all about their organization, their team.
There are many lessons to be learned from both the planning committee for their significant planning as well as the teams. For now, I am completely content to just dream about the big game and maintaining my belief that a bunch of folks from Indianapolis have worked diligently to show the world that we are NOT “nap-town” any longer.
THANKS INDIANAPOLIS!
--Ben Keckler
02.03.12
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 2
Prelude to the Super Bowl
25 years ago I spent the Thursday before the Super Bowl getting ready for a big party; at that time I was a Youth Minister at a large church in Lancaster, PA. The youth advisors and I spent the evening getting the games lined up, planned back-up activities in case the game was a blow out and finalized plans for the party.
Super Bowl XXI found the New York Giants battling the Denver Broncos. New York won the game and Phil Simms won the Most Valuable Player award. Does that mean the Giants will win and Eli will be the MVP?
We had a fun evening with the 30 or 40 kids who showed up at the Youth Center. I was exhausted when the evening concluded.
I am going to have a fun evening enjoying the Super Bowl at home. No big party this year! We are planning to have some friends over to enjoy a simple supper as we sit in the family room with a fire in the fireplace and our eyes glued to the TV watching OUR City entertain the watching world.
Here's to a great weekend! Enjoy it whether you are downtown or at home.
--Ben Keckler
02.02.12
25 years ago I spent the Thursday before the Super Bowl getting ready for a big party; at that time I was a Youth Minister at a large church in Lancaster, PA. The youth advisors and I spent the evening getting the games lined up, planned back-up activities in case the game was a blow out and finalized plans for the party.
Super Bowl XXI found the New York Giants battling the Denver Broncos. New York won the game and Phil Simms won the Most Valuable Player award. Does that mean the Giants will win and Eli will be the MVP?
We had a fun evening with the 30 or 40 kids who showed up at the Youth Center. I was exhausted when the evening concluded.
I am going to have a fun evening enjoying the Super Bowl at home. No big party this year! We are planning to have some friends over to enjoy a simple supper as we sit in the family room with a fire in the fireplace and our eyes glued to the TV watching OUR City entertain the watching world.
Here's to a great weekend! Enjoy it whether you are downtown or at home.
--Ben Keckler
02.02.12
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 1
Prelude to the Super Bowl
This week I'm giving some attention to the Super Bowl, offering a series of devotions titled, “Prelude to the Super Bowl.” We will likely see some gestures or hear some God language during this week. You usually do, especially from the winners.
Back when the Colts won the Super Bowl in 2007, both Jim Irsay and Tony Dungy quickly interjected their thoughts about how God played a role in the victory with words like, “I want to give all the glory to God.” It isn’t offensive language for me but it does cause me to wonder:
● Would we have heard the same words in a loss?
● Is God only on the side of the winner?
● What's God got to do with it?
● Is God a micro-manager or a macro-manager or....?
I certainly don't have a problem giving thanks to God! In fact, I think thanksgiving to the Creator is always in order. My challenge comes when language appears to reflect special favoritism being bestowed upon a person, a group of persons or a city of God's people.
I really like the words from one of my fellow chaplains. He shared with me some years ago: “It's all God!” Enjoy these final days and sense the Spirit that is among us.
--Ben Keckler
02.01.12
This week I'm giving some attention to the Super Bowl, offering a series of devotions titled, “Prelude to the Super Bowl.” We will likely see some gestures or hear some God language during this week. You usually do, especially from the winners.
Back when the Colts won the Super Bowl in 2007, both Jim Irsay and Tony Dungy quickly interjected their thoughts about how God played a role in the victory with words like, “I want to give all the glory to God.” It isn’t offensive language for me but it does cause me to wonder:
● Would we have heard the same words in a loss?
● Is God only on the side of the winner?
● What's God got to do with it?
● Is God a micro-manager or a macro-manager or....?
I certainly don't have a problem giving thanks to God! In fact, I think thanksgiving to the Creator is always in order. My challenge comes when language appears to reflect special favoritism being bestowed upon a person, a group of persons or a city of God's people.
I really like the words from one of my fellow chaplains. He shared with me some years ago: “It's all God!” Enjoy these final days and sense the Spirit that is among us.
--Ben Keckler
02.01.12
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
