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
Showing posts with label Love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Love. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Friday, December 23, 2011
Daily Devotion - Friday, December 23
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
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
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, October 27
Thoughts for the Journey
If we believe in eternal life then what does that say about a person who has died? Are they dead or are they living? Something to think about I believe!
I believe life is eternal. I like the challenge Melody Beattie presents in these thoughts:
“Speak your truth. Listen when others speak theirs, too.
When you let go of fear, you will learn to love others
and you will let them love you.
Do not be afraid of dying. And do not be afraid to live!
Ask yourself what that line means.
Open your heart to love, for that is why you’re here.
And know that you are, and always have been One
with Me and all who live.”
Have a great day.
--Ben Keckler
10.27.10
If we believe in eternal life then what does that say about a person who has died? Are they dead or are they living? Something to think about I believe!
I believe life is eternal. I like the challenge Melody Beattie presents in these thoughts:
“Speak your truth. Listen when others speak theirs, too.
When you let go of fear, you will learn to love others
and you will let them love you.
Do not be afraid of dying. And do not be afraid to live!
Ask yourself what that line means.
Open your heart to love, for that is why you’re here.
And know that you are, and always have been One
with Me and all who live.”
Have a great day.
--Ben Keckler
10.27.10
Friday, February 26, 2010
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 26
Steadfast Love and Trust
“Let those who are wise give heed to these things,
and consider the steadfast love of the Lord.”
--From an ancient song of trust
Our week concludes with a verse from an old Hebrew hymn. This Psalm is a litany of the many ways God demonstrates steadfast love in all sorts of circumstances. It is as though the writer is concluding the song saying, “OK folks, if you are wise you will look at all these examples and trust in the steadfast love of the Lord.” Psalm 107 is filled with good observations that still ring true today—around 3,000 years later.
Popular writer, Max Lucado, has a deck of cards known as “Comfort Cards.” This 50 card set is a contemporary example echoing the sentiments of the Psalms. Here is a card that seems to incorporate our theme of the week, trust, and our meditation verse for today.
One side of the card says, “You can trust God.” The other side affirms this simple statement with these words; “You are not a candidate for insecurity. You are no longer a client of timidity. He has given His love to you; why don’t you give your doubts to Him?
On the days you don’t feel close to God, trust your faith and not your feelings.”
The steadfast love of God is trustworthy. Have a good day and a good weekend trusting in God’s steadfast love.
A prayer: Watch over me, God. Help me to recognize your steadfast love. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
02.26.10
“Let those who are wise give heed to these things,
and consider the steadfast love of the Lord.”
--From an ancient song of trust
Our week concludes with a verse from an old Hebrew hymn. This Psalm is a litany of the many ways God demonstrates steadfast love in all sorts of circumstances. It is as though the writer is concluding the song saying, “OK folks, if you are wise you will look at all these examples and trust in the steadfast love of the Lord.” Psalm 107 is filled with good observations that still ring true today—around 3,000 years later.
Popular writer, Max Lucado, has a deck of cards known as “Comfort Cards.” This 50 card set is a contemporary example echoing the sentiments of the Psalms. Here is a card that seems to incorporate our theme of the week, trust, and our meditation verse for today.
One side of the card says, “You can trust God.” The other side affirms this simple statement with these words; “You are not a candidate for insecurity. You are no longer a client of timidity. He has given His love to you; why don’t you give your doubts to Him?
On the days you don’t feel close to God, trust your faith and not your feelings.”
The steadfast love of God is trustworthy. Have a good day and a good weekend trusting in God’s steadfast love.
A prayer: Watch over me, God. Help me to recognize your steadfast love. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
02.26.10
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 18
The Quality of Love 4
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
This week we are examining some observations about the enduring quality of love. Today we turn to a brief prayer by Dawna Markova. Dawna is the author of several helpful books, like I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and No Enemies Within. The quality of love springs forth from lives where we are connected with our own inner core. Through her writing she helps people explore necessary questions that help in reclaiming (or maybe discovering) a passion for life. Here is her prayer:
“May we learn to open in love
so all the doors and windows
of our bodies swing wide
on their rusty hinges.
“May we learn to give ourselves with both hands,
to lift each other on our shoulders,
to carry one another along.
“May holiness move in us
so we pay attention to its small voice
and honor its light in each other.”
Have a very good day, friends.
--Ben Keckler
02.18.10
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
This week we are examining some observations about the enduring quality of love. Today we turn to a brief prayer by Dawna Markova. Dawna is the author of several helpful books, like I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and No Enemies Within. The quality of love springs forth from lives where we are connected with our own inner core. Through her writing she helps people explore necessary questions that help in reclaiming (or maybe discovering) a passion for life. Here is her prayer:
“May we learn to open in love
so all the doors and windows
of our bodies swing wide
on their rusty hinges.
“May we learn to give ourselves with both hands,
to lift each other on our shoulders,
to carry one another along.
“May holiness move in us
so we pay attention to its small voice
and honor its light in each other.”
Have a very good day, friends.
--Ben Keckler
02.18.10
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 17
The Quality of Love 3
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Love continues to endure. We celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, but love is with us for the entire year. The qualities of faith, hope and love - truly, the greatest of all qualities is love. We continue with some observations about love.
Today we turn to a brief prayer by Hazrat Inayat Khan. Following the prayer, is an introduction of Khan.
“Fill my heart with Love,
that my every teardrop may become a star.”
Hazrat Inayat Khan: In the Western religious experience we seldom encounter the teachings of Sufism. The world continues to be drawn together, allowing us to be aware of our “connectedness” with others. We have more and more opportunities to develop sensitivity or spiritual awareness about the many different religions in our world. Khan started the “Sufi Order in the West”. He grew up in a musical family in the country of India. He learned a great deal from the poets and composers. As he listened he was able to see the vast similarities in the beliefs of humankind. Sufism honors all the world’s major religions and draws from the teachings of their holy books.
--Ben Keckler
02.17.10
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Love continues to endure. We celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, but love is with us for the entire year. The qualities of faith, hope and love - truly, the greatest of all qualities is love. We continue with some observations about love.
Today we turn to a brief prayer by Hazrat Inayat Khan. Following the prayer, is an introduction of Khan.
“Fill my heart with Love,
that my every teardrop may become a star.”
Hazrat Inayat Khan: In the Western religious experience we seldom encounter the teachings of Sufism. The world continues to be drawn together, allowing us to be aware of our “connectedness” with others. We have more and more opportunities to develop sensitivity or spiritual awareness about the many different religions in our world. Khan started the “Sufi Order in the West”. He grew up in a musical family in the country of India. He learned a great deal from the poets and composers. As he listened he was able to see the vast similarities in the beliefs of humankind. Sufism honors all the world’s major religions and draws from the teachings of their holy books.
--Ben Keckler
02.17.10
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 16
The Quality of Love 2
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Valentines Day is history but love continues to endure. Truly, the greatest of all qualities is LOVE. This week we are examining some observations about love.
Again today I offer you some insights by the late George Carlin.
“Remember, to say “I love you” to your partner and your loved ones,
but most of all, mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt
when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment
for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak and give time to share
the precious thoughts and feeling in your mind and heart.”
--Ben Keckler
02.16.10
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Valentines Day is history but love continues to endure. Truly, the greatest of all qualities is LOVE. This week we are examining some observations about love.
Again today I offer you some insights by the late George Carlin.
“Remember, to say “I love you” to your partner and your loved ones,
but most of all, mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt
when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment
for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak and give time to share
the precious thoughts and feeling in your mind and heart.”
--Ben Keckler
02.16.10
Monday, February 15, 2010
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 15
The Quality of Love
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Well, the weekend of Valentine’s is now history, but the quality that we celebrated over the weekend, love, continues to endure. Truly, the greatest of all qualities is LOVE. This week we will examine some observations about love.
Today we turn to some insights offered by the late George Carlin.
“Remember, spend some time with your loved ones,
because they are not going to be around forever.
Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe,
because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.
Remember, give a warm hug to the one next to you,
because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart
and it doesn’t cost a cent.”
--Ben Keckler
02.15.10
“And now abide three things, faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--From a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
Well, the weekend of Valentine’s is now history, but the quality that we celebrated over the weekend, love, continues to endure. Truly, the greatest of all qualities is LOVE. This week we will examine some observations about love.
Today we turn to some insights offered by the late George Carlin.
“Remember, spend some time with your loved ones,
because they are not going to be around forever.
Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe,
because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.
Remember, give a warm hug to the one next to you,
because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart
and it doesn’t cost a cent.”
--Ben Keckler
02.15.10
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, December 24
Working on the “Inn” Side
Yestereday we looked at the “Inn” side room of hope. Today, Christmas Eve Day, let's explore 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, and whose religion are 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
12.24.09
Yestereday we looked at the “Inn” side room of hope. Today, Christmas Eve Day, let's explore 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, and whose religion are 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
12.24.09
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, September 23
Brokenness
NOTE: I hope you enjoy this little dialogue between Morrie Schwartz and Mitch Albom. I think it gives some interesting thoughts as we deal with the broken moments of life.
Morrie: “Have I told you about the tension of opposites?”
Mitch: “The tension of opposites?”
Morrie: “Life is a series of pulls back and forth. You want to do one thing, but you are bound to do something else. Something hurts you, yet you know it shouldn't. You take certain things for granted, even when you know you should never take anything for granted. A tension of opposites, like a pull on a rubber band. And most of us live somewhere in the middle.”
Mitch: “Sounds like a wresting match,” I say.
Morrie: “A wresting match.” He laughs. “Yes, you could describe life that way.”
Mitch: “So which side wins?” I ask.
Morrie: “Which side wins?” He smiles and with crinkled eyes and crooked teeth, “Love wins. Love always wins.”
Tuesdays With Morrie, p. 40
Broken? Be open to love.
--Ben Keckler
09.23.09
NOTE: I hope you enjoy this little dialogue between Morrie Schwartz and Mitch Albom. I think it gives some interesting thoughts as we deal with the broken moments of life.
Morrie: “Have I told you about the tension of opposites?”
Mitch: “The tension of opposites?”
Morrie: “Life is a series of pulls back and forth. You want to do one thing, but you are bound to do something else. Something hurts you, yet you know it shouldn't. You take certain things for granted, even when you know you should never take anything for granted. A tension of opposites, like a pull on a rubber band. And most of us live somewhere in the middle.”
Mitch: “Sounds like a wresting match,” I say.
Morrie: “A wresting match.” He laughs. “Yes, you could describe life that way.”
Mitch: “So which side wins?” I ask.
Morrie: “Which side wins?” He smiles and with crinkled eyes and crooked teeth, “Love wins. Love always wins.”
Tuesdays With Morrie, p. 40
Broken? Be open to love.
--Ben Keckler
09.23.09
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, June 25
Works of Love and Peace
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.”
--A wisdom saying from the Proverbs
Chapter 3:3
One day Mother Teresa was writing a letter to her fellow laborers in Calcutta, the Missionaries of Charity and their Co-Workers. Her goal was to inspire the workers as they performed their acts of mercy with people in need. She quoted from one of Cardinal Newman’s prayers and added her own thoughts. Pray with me today:
“Help me to spread thy fragrance everywhere I go—
let me preach thee without preaching, not by words but by example—
by the catching force;
let the sympathetic influence of what I do
be evidence of the full love my heart feels to thee.” (Newman)
She then continued saying, “Our works of love are nothing but works of peace. Let us do them with greater love and efficiency—each in her or his daily work both in your home and with your neighbor. Listen to the cry: I was hungry – not only for food, but for peace that comes from a pure heart; I was thirsty – not for water, but for peace that satiates the passionate thirst of passion for war; I was naked – not for clothes, but for that beautiful dignity of people for their bodies; I was homeless – not for a shelter made of bricks, but for a heart that understands, that covers, that loves.”
A prayer: God, may I act with mercy today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
06.25.09
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.”
--A wisdom saying from the Proverbs
Chapter 3:3
One day Mother Teresa was writing a letter to her fellow laborers in Calcutta, the Missionaries of Charity and their Co-Workers. Her goal was to inspire the workers as they performed their acts of mercy with people in need. She quoted from one of Cardinal Newman’s prayers and added her own thoughts. Pray with me today:
“Help me to spread thy fragrance everywhere I go—
let me preach thee without preaching, not by words but by example—
by the catching force;
let the sympathetic influence of what I do
be evidence of the full love my heart feels to thee.” (Newman)
She then continued saying, “Our works of love are nothing but works of peace. Let us do them with greater love and efficiency—each in her or his daily work both in your home and with your neighbor. Listen to the cry: I was hungry – not only for food, but for peace that comes from a pure heart; I was thirsty – not for water, but for peace that satiates the passionate thirst of passion for war; I was naked – not for clothes, but for that beautiful dignity of people for their bodies; I was homeless – not for a shelter made of bricks, but for a heart that understands, that covers, that loves.”
A prayer: God, may I act with mercy today. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
06.25.09
Friday, February 27, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 27
All-Embracing Love
Dr. Henri Nouwen, a renowned priest, caregiver and writer, has greatly influenced my life. Several years before his death, he was in an accident that took him to the very door of death. He wrote a book reflecting on his experience, Beyond the Mirror. It is a short book and worthy of your reading. In the chapter that deals with his recovery he writes:
“When I awoke from my operation and realized that I was not yet
in God’s house but still alive in the world, I had an immediate
perception of being sent: sent to make the all-embracing love
of the Father known to people who hunger and thirst for love,
but often look for it within a world where it cannot be found.”
Henri fully recovered and went on to conduct many seminars around the world, two of which I was privileged to attend. This “all-embracing love” as he calls it, is something he shared daily. Life presents us with fragmentation, separation and pain. Through loving, caring actions we can help that “all-embracing love” to be experienced.
Have a blessed day and weekend.
Ben Keckler
02.27.09
Dr. Henri Nouwen, a renowned priest, caregiver and writer, has greatly influenced my life. Several years before his death, he was in an accident that took him to the very door of death. He wrote a book reflecting on his experience, Beyond the Mirror. It is a short book and worthy of your reading. In the chapter that deals with his recovery he writes:
“When I awoke from my operation and realized that I was not yet
in God’s house but still alive in the world, I had an immediate
perception of being sent: sent to make the all-embracing love
of the Father known to people who hunger and thirst for love,
but often look for it within a world where it cannot be found.”
Henri fully recovered and went on to conduct many seminars around the world, two of which I was privileged to attend. This “all-embracing love” as he calls it, is something he shared daily. Life presents us with fragmentation, separation and pain. Through loving, caring actions we can help that “all-embracing love” to be experienced.
Have a blessed day and weekend.
Ben Keckler
02.27.09
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 26
Understanding Love
Those of us who work in the field of health care find our work to be both challenging and rewarding. Discovering the delicate balance needed to work with individuals and with groups nudges us to explore and understand love.
Those of us who work in the field of health care work in a place where bringing health, healing and life are our primary goals. We work in a place where experiencing death, grief and loss are not supposed to happen. The reality is, we journey with people in every rhythm of the life experience. The wisdom writer said, “there is a time for every season.” There is one significant opportunity we have working in a care giving institution – the challenge to demonstrate love, care and compassion. Whether in life or in death, we can be people whose loving spirits let our patients (friends) feel loved.
We’ve focused on love during this month of meditations. In just a couple days a new month will march in like a lion and hopefully go out like a lamb.. 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
02.26.09
Those of us who work in the field of health care find our work to be both challenging and rewarding. Discovering the delicate balance needed to work with individuals and with groups nudges us to explore and understand love.
Those of us who work in the field of health care work in a place where bringing health, healing and life are our primary goals. We work in a place where experiencing death, grief and loss are not supposed to happen. The reality is, we journey with people in every rhythm of the life experience. The wisdom writer said, “there is a time for every season.” There is one significant opportunity we have working in a care giving institution – the challenge to demonstrate love, care and compassion. Whether in life or in death, we can be people whose loving spirits let our patients (friends) feel loved.
We’ve focused on love during this month of meditations. In just a couple days a new month will march in like a lion and hopefully go out like a lamb.. 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
02.26.09
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 25
The Way of Love
It is good to know that there are hundreds—thousands—millions—who have lived the way of love. In Henri Nouwen’s book Compassion, A Reflection on the Christian Life he talks about learning the art of displacement as we journey toward being loving, compassionate people. He sights a variety of people who have followed “our Lord to places they would rather not go.” He issues a call for people of faith to learn this art. Henri says, “Voluntary displacement leads to compassion; by bringing us closer to our own brokenness it opens our eyes to our fellow human beings who seek our consolation and comfort.”
Sometimes in our daily lives we discover we are in difficult, uncharted territories. As we take courage and allow ourselves the freedom to travel in this “strange place,” insight and love take charge. It’s actually quite empowering! We discover that faith does work!
If you find yourself “displaced” today, take courage and listen. You will receive. The Sacred writings of Scripture tell us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God’s mercies never come to an end.”
Ben Keckler
02.25.09
It is good to know that there are hundreds—thousands—millions—who have lived the way of love. In Henri Nouwen’s book Compassion, A Reflection on the Christian Life he talks about learning the art of displacement as we journey toward being loving, compassionate people. He sights a variety of people who have followed “our Lord to places they would rather not go.” He issues a call for people of faith to learn this art. Henri says, “Voluntary displacement leads to compassion; by bringing us closer to our own brokenness it opens our eyes to our fellow human beings who seek our consolation and comfort.”
Sometimes in our daily lives we discover we are in difficult, uncharted territories. As we take courage and allow ourselves the freedom to travel in this “strange place,” insight and love take charge. It’s actually quite empowering! We discover that faith does work!
If you find yourself “displaced” today, take courage and listen. You will receive. The Sacred writings of Scripture tell us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God’s mercies never come to an end.”
Ben Keckler
02.25.09
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 24
Emotions with Morrie
I like to refer to the book Tuesdays with Morrie from time to time in these devotions. It is an engaging book which details Mitch Albom’s stories of his weekly (Tuesday) visits with a college professor who was dying. Morrie’s disease was ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, sometimes we call it Lou Gehrig’s disease.
The sixth Tuesday that Mitch and Morrie spent together they dealt with the subject of emotions. Since one of the themes we encounter in the month of February focuses on love, here are some of Morrie’s insights about a way of dealing with all of our emotions. Think about these quotes today:
• “Take any emotion,” he says, and “allow yourself to go all the way through it.”
• “By throwing yourself into your emotions, by allowing yourself to dive in, all the way, over your head even, you experience your emotions fully and completely.”
• “Only when you jump in all the way can you say, ‘All right. I have experienced that emotion. I recognize that emotion. I can name my emotions and experience them as well.’”
We are thinking about love this month. Enjoy this emotion. Dive in and enjoy the experience of living love today.
Ben Keckler
02.24.09
I like to refer to the book Tuesdays with Morrie from time to time in these devotions. It is an engaging book which details Mitch Albom’s stories of his weekly (Tuesday) visits with a college professor who was dying. Morrie’s disease was ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, sometimes we call it Lou Gehrig’s disease.
The sixth Tuesday that Mitch and Morrie spent together they dealt with the subject of emotions. Since one of the themes we encounter in the month of February focuses on love, here are some of Morrie’s insights about a way of dealing with all of our emotions. Think about these quotes today:
• “Take any emotion,” he says, and “allow yourself to go all the way through it.”
• “By throwing yourself into your emotions, by allowing yourself to dive in, all the way, over your head even, you experience your emotions fully and completely.”
• “Only when you jump in all the way can you say, ‘All right. I have experienced that emotion. I recognize that emotion. I can name my emotions and experience them as well.’”
We are thinking about love this month. Enjoy this emotion. Dive in and enjoy the experience of living love today.
Ben Keckler
02.24.09
Daily Devotion - Monday, February 23
More Loving
In A Book of Uncommon Prayer, written by Presbyterian professor and pastor Kenneth G. Phifer, there is a prayer entitled “I Need To Be More Loving.” Here it is:
“Almighty God, I know so little of what love in its fullness can be. My love is marred by jealousy, scarred by envy and limited by selfishness. I withhold love at the slightest provocation, and withdraw myself from involvement with others for fear of being hurt.
Still, I know something of what love can be like. I can remember being forgiven generously and freely by someone I had wronged. I can remember being made strong by the realization that someone cared. And, if your teachings are right, to know what love is like is to know what you are like.
Out of your heart came the evidences of love for all kinds of people and a refusal to give up on any of us. Thank you for that love and for that refusal. I hope that I can catch more of your Spirit in my life.
Help me to be more outgoing, less sensitive to slights, and more alert to the feelings of others. Slow my judging nature. Diminish my righteous spirit. Open me to life and to the beauty in others. Increase my confidence so that I am less defensive and reactionary. Maximize my ability to love for, as you know O God, I need to be more loving. Amen.”
Ben Keckler
02.23.09
In A Book of Uncommon Prayer, written by Presbyterian professor and pastor Kenneth G. Phifer, there is a prayer entitled “I Need To Be More Loving.” Here it is:
“Almighty God, I know so little of what love in its fullness can be. My love is marred by jealousy, scarred by envy and limited by selfishness. I withhold love at the slightest provocation, and withdraw myself from involvement with others for fear of being hurt.
Still, I know something of what love can be like. I can remember being forgiven generously and freely by someone I had wronged. I can remember being made strong by the realization that someone cared. And, if your teachings are right, to know what love is like is to know what you are like.
Out of your heart came the evidences of love for all kinds of people and a refusal to give up on any of us. Thank you for that love and for that refusal. I hope that I can catch more of your Spirit in my life.
Help me to be more outgoing, less sensitive to slights, and more alert to the feelings of others. Slow my judging nature. Diminish my righteous spirit. Open me to life and to the beauty in others. Increase my confidence so that I am less defensive and reactionary. Maximize my ability to love for, as you know O God, I need to be more loving. Amen.”
Ben Keckler
02.23.09
Friday, February 20, 2009
Daily Devotion - Friday, February 20
LOVE at the End of the Week
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
This week we have looked at the enduring quality of love with insights or prayers from George Carlin, Hazrat Inayat Khan and Dawna Markova. Our final prayer for the week is simply marvelous. It seems just right for a Friday. It seems just right for a day when we are thinking about the coming of spring. It seems just right for everyone. Molly Fumia writes:
"Oh Great Spirit of Surprise,
Dazzle us with a day full of amazing embraces,
Capricious, uncalculated caring,
Great hearts, kind souls and doers of good deeds."
Have a good day and may your weekend be filled with goodness too!
Ben Keckler
02.20.09
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
This week we have looked at the enduring quality of love with insights or prayers from George Carlin, Hazrat Inayat Khan and Dawna Markova. Our final prayer for the week is simply marvelous. It seems just right for a Friday. It seems just right for a day when we are thinking about the coming of spring. It seems just right for everyone. Molly Fumia writes:
"Oh Great Spirit of Surprise,
Dazzle us with a day full of amazing embraces,
Capricious, uncalculated caring,
Great hearts, kind souls and doers of good deeds."
Have a good day and may your weekend be filled with goodness too!
Ben Keckler
02.20.09
Daily Devotion - Thursday, February 19
LOVE
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
In our journey with the quality of love, we turn to a brief prayer by Dawna Markova. Dawna is the author of several helpful books like I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and No Enemies Within. The quality of love springs forth from lives where we are connected with our own inner core. Through her writing she helps people explore necessary questions that help in reclaiming (or maybe discovering) a passion for life. Here is her prayer:
“May we learn to open in love
so all the doors and windows
of our bodies swing wide
on their rusty hinges.
May we learn to give ourselves with both hands,
to lift each other on our shoulders,
to carry one another along.
May holiness move in us
so we pay attention to its small voice
and honor its light in each other."
Have a very good day, friends.
Ben Keckler
02.19.09
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
In our journey with the quality of love, we turn to a brief prayer by Dawna Markova. Dawna is the author of several helpful books like I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and No Enemies Within. The quality of love springs forth from lives where we are connected with our own inner core. Through her writing she helps people explore necessary questions that help in reclaiming (or maybe discovering) a passion for life. Here is her prayer:
“May we learn to open in love
so all the doors and windows
of our bodies swing wide
on their rusty hinges.
May we learn to give ourselves with both hands,
to lift each other on our shoulders,
to carry one another along.
May holiness move in us
so we pay attention to its small voice
and honor its light in each other."
Have a very good day, friends.
Ben Keckler
02.19.09
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, February 18
Filled with LOVE
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
As we continue with the quality of love, we turn to a brief prayer by Hazrat Inayat Khan. Following the prayer, a brief introduction of Khan.
“Fill my heart with Love,
that my every teardrop may become a star.”
Hazrat Inayat Khan: In the Western religious experience we seldom encounter the teachings of Sufism. The world continues to be drawn together, allowing us to be aware of our “connectedness” with others. We have more and more opportunities to develop sensitivity or spiritual awareness about the many different religions in our world. Khan started the “Sufi Order in the West”. He grew up in a musical family in the country of India. He learned a great deal from the poets and composers. As he listened he was able to see the vast similarities in the beliefs of humankind. Sufism honors all the world’s major religions and draws from the teachings of their holy books.
Ben Keckler
02.18.09
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
As we continue with the quality of love, we turn to a brief prayer by Hazrat Inayat Khan. Following the prayer, a brief introduction of Khan.
“Fill my heart with Love,
that my every teardrop may become a star.”
Hazrat Inayat Khan: In the Western religious experience we seldom encounter the teachings of Sufism. The world continues to be drawn together, allowing us to be aware of our “connectedness” with others. We have more and more opportunities to develop sensitivity or spiritual awareness about the many different religions in our world. Khan started the “Sufi Order in the West”. He grew up in a musical family in the country of India. He learned a great deal from the poets and composers. As he listened he was able to see the vast similarities in the beliefs of humankind. Sufism honors all the world’s major religions and draws from the teachings of their holy books.
Ben Keckler
02.18.09
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, February 17
More on LOVE
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
The greatest of all qualities is LOVE. Even though Valentine’s Day is over, the quality of love that we celebrated for Valentine’s Day continues to endure. We turn to some further insights offered by George Carlin.
“Remember, to say “I love you” to your partner and your loved ones,
but most of all, mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt
when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment
for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak and give time to share
the precious thoughts and feelings in your mind and heart.”
Ben Keckler
02.17.09
“And now abide three things,
faith, hope and love,
and the greatest of these is love.”
--from a letter to people living in the city of Corinth
The greatest of all qualities is LOVE. Even though Valentine’s Day is over, the quality of love that we celebrated for Valentine’s Day continues to endure. We turn to some further insights offered by George Carlin.
“Remember, to say “I love you” to your partner and your loved ones,
but most of all, mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt
when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment
for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak and give time to share
the precious thoughts and feelings in your mind and heart.”
Ben Keckler
02.17.09
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