Prelude to the Super Bowl
Five years ago today I wrote the following devotion. While our Colts had a dismal season this year, I think this devotion still has a lesson or two in it. Enjoy!
I was privileged to watch the Patriots/Colts game from home. Don’t get me wrong—I think it would have been phenomenal to be there! The reason I call myself privileged is that I got to see all the post-game interviews LIVE! Rather than sitting in a traffic jam I got to see and hear the first words that Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning, Bill Belichick and Tom Brady shared with the public. Today I want to look at one of Peyton’s comments.
QUESTION: How big was Fletcher’s reception?
ANSWER: It was big.
And then Peyton went on with his little sermon. He shared that the route wasn’t Peyton’s idea, he shared that Fletcher’s route wasn’t the idea of anyone on the coaching staff. He shared that the idea was Fletcher’s idea (he also said he hesitated to say it cause he didn’t want Fletcher to get a big head). What an answer! Peyton didn’t take credit; he gave credit where credit was due. Peyton told us he was a listener. He told us he was willing to take an adventure. He told us that believing and trusting others is important. In this big game he was very willing to listen to others and act on their insights! I’m glad he did.
Peyton taught us a great deal about leadership in that game (there are some other things I could highlight but this is a devotion, not a sermon). Thanks for teaching us that listening is critical for success, Peyton.
Have a blessed day listening to and serving others.
--Ben Keckler
01.31.12
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, January 30
Prelude to the Super Bowl
Just one week ago (Monday, January 23) some of us dragged ourselves into work. We had stayed up to watch which teams would make their way to Indianapolis for the Super Bowl. Some of us had already figured out that Tom Brady would be using Peyton Manning’s locker at the Colts complex—that’s not right! This week, since we are privileged to host the big event in Indy, I’d like to give some attention to the Super Bowl, offering a series of devotions titled, “Prelude to the Super Bowl.”
This is my first experience to live in a city where our hometown has hosted the biggest game of the year. I’ve really enjoyed being part of all the football hype, probably because I really love the game of football. I do remember back to 2007, my first experience of the Colts in the Super Bowl. One day I opened my electronic mail and there was one from hospital President Dawes, with a flag waving and two brief words “GO COLTS!” Can’t do that this time but we can go downtown, watch folks on a zip line, and see all the hype first hand.
A big party has come to Indianapolis and we have an opportunity to demonstrate hospitality. So Mr. Brady, enjoy Mr. Manning’s locker and the wonderful complex we have for the Colts to practice. And Mr. Eli Manning, enjoy the locker you have down at University of Indianapolis. Practice well, gentlemen, and have a good Super Bowl experience in Indy!
--Ben Keckler
01.30.12
Just one week ago (Monday, January 23) some of us dragged ourselves into work. We had stayed up to watch which teams would make their way to Indianapolis for the Super Bowl. Some of us had already figured out that Tom Brady would be using Peyton Manning’s locker at the Colts complex—that’s not right! This week, since we are privileged to host the big event in Indy, I’d like to give some attention to the Super Bowl, offering a series of devotions titled, “Prelude to the Super Bowl.”
This is my first experience to live in a city where our hometown has hosted the biggest game of the year. I’ve really enjoyed being part of all the football hype, probably because I really love the game of football. I do remember back to 2007, my first experience of the Colts in the Super Bowl. One day I opened my electronic mail and there was one from hospital President Dawes, with a flag waving and two brief words “GO COLTS!” Can’t do that this time but we can go downtown, watch folks on a zip line, and see all the hype first hand.
A big party has come to Indianapolis and we have an opportunity to demonstrate hospitality. So Mr. Brady, enjoy Mr. Manning’s locker and the wonderful complex we have for the Colts to practice. And Mr. Eli Manning, enjoy the locker you have down at University of Indianapolis. Practice well, gentlemen, and have a good Super Bowl experience in Indy!
--Ben Keckler
01.30.12
Friday, January 27, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, January 27
Something to Contemplate
Note: This week’s devotions have been designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Some words on poverty from Henri Nouwen
The Road To Daybreak (1988)
“Poverty takes many forms. Whether rich or poor we all experience poverty. .. It is so easy to be swept off one’s own feet by the glitter of the world, seduced by its apparent splendor. Yet, the only place to be authentic is the place of poverty, the place where there is loneliness, anger, confusion, depression and pain.”
BK thought: Next week, we metro Indy folk will be swept off our feet as we host the Super Bowl. Lots of glitter will be apparent. Each person who visits our town possesses a spirit just like ours – longing to be peaceful in the midst of brokenness.
--Ben Keckler
1.27.12
Note: This week’s devotions have been designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Some words on poverty from Henri Nouwen
The Road To Daybreak (1988)
“Poverty takes many forms. Whether rich or poor we all experience poverty. .. It is so easy to be swept off one’s own feet by the glitter of the world, seduced by its apparent splendor. Yet, the only place to be authentic is the place of poverty, the place where there is loneliness, anger, confusion, depression and pain.”
BK thought: Next week, we metro Indy folk will be swept off our feet as we host the Super Bowl. Lots of glitter will be apparent. Each person who visits our town possesses a spirit just like ours – longing to be peaceful in the midst of brokenness.
--Ben Keckler
1.27.12
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, January 26
Something to Contemplate
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words on Spiritual Growth from Gerald May
Addiction and Grace (1988)
“…The spiritual growth process involves far more relinquishment than acquisition. We are conditional to expect growth to involve acquisition of new facts and understandings….. We have, in a way, become attached to the very process of expanding our attachments. But spiritual growth is different. It cannot be packaged, programmed or taught. The essential process is one of transformation, not education. …. Contemplation is simply trying to face life in a truly undefended and open-eyed way….”
--Ben Keckler
01.26.12
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words on Spiritual Growth from Gerald May
Addiction and Grace (1988)
“…The spiritual growth process involves far more relinquishment than acquisition. We are conditional to expect growth to involve acquisition of new facts and understandings….. We have, in a way, become attached to the very process of expanding our attachments. But spiritual growth is different. It cannot be packaged, programmed or taught. The essential process is one of transformation, not education. …. Contemplation is simply trying to face life in a truly undefended and open-eyed way….”
--Ben Keckler
01.26.12
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, January 25
Something to Contemplate
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Some words from Paul Tournier
To Understand Each Other (1976)
“Listen to all the conversations of our world, those between nations as well as those between couples. They are for the most part dialogues of the deaf. Exceedingly few exchanges of viewpoints manifest a real desire to understand the other person….. Here is a great mystery: no one comes to know himself through introspection alone, or in the solitude of a personal diary. If we wish to see ourselves clearly, we must open up to a confidant that we have freely chosen and feel is worthy of such trust.”
--Ben Keckler
01.25.12
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Some words from Paul Tournier
To Understand Each Other (1976)
“Listen to all the conversations of our world, those between nations as well as those between couples. They are for the most part dialogues of the deaf. Exceedingly few exchanges of viewpoints manifest a real desire to understand the other person….. Here is a great mystery: no one comes to know himself through introspection alone, or in the solitude of a personal diary. If we wish to see ourselves clearly, we must open up to a confidant that we have freely chosen and feel is worthy of such trust.”
--Ben Keckler
01.25.12
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, January 24
Something to Contemplate
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words from an Indonesian sojourner
Penned in 1983
In the depth of silence no words are needed, no language required.
In the depth of silence I am called to listen.
Listen to the beating of your heart.
Listen to the blowing of the wind,
The movement of the Spirit.
Be silent, said the Holy, and know that I am God.
And listen to the cry of the voiceless.
Listen to the groaning of the hungry.
Listen to the pain of the landless.
Listen to the sigh of the oppressed and
to the laughter of the children.
For that is authentic communication;
Listening to people
Living with people
Dying for people.
--Ben Keckler
01.24.12
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words from an Indonesian sojourner
Penned in 1983
In the depth of silence no words are needed, no language required.
In the depth of silence I am called to listen.
Listen to the beating of your heart.
Listen to the blowing of the wind,
The movement of the Spirit.
Be silent, said the Holy, and know that I am God.
And listen to the cry of the voiceless.
Listen to the groaning of the hungry.
Listen to the pain of the landless.
Listen to the sigh of the oppressed and
to the laughter of the children.
For that is authentic communication;
Listening to people
Living with people
Dying for people.
--Ben Keckler
01.24.12
Monday, January 23, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, January 23
Something to Contemplate
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words from Soren Kierkegaard:
“As my prayers became more attentive and inward,
I had less and less to say.
I finally became completely silent.
I started to listen—which is even further removed from speaking.
I then learned that praying is hearing, not merely being silent.
This is how it is:
to prayer does not mean to listen to oneself speaking.
Prayer involves becoming silent, and being silent,
and waiting until God is heard!”
Have a meaningful week!
--Ben Keckler
01.23.12
Note: This week’s devotions are designed to help us journey deeper; the thoughts, insights and prayers come from various pens of writers who influence my spiritual awareness. Hope you enjoy!
Words from Soren Kierkegaard:
“As my prayers became more attentive and inward,
I had less and less to say.
I finally became completely silent.
I started to listen—which is even further removed from speaking.
I then learned that praying is hearing, not merely being silent.
This is how it is:
to prayer does not mean to listen to oneself speaking.
Prayer involves becoming silent, and being silent,
and waiting until God is heard!”
Have a meaningful week!
--Ben Keckler
01.23.12
Friday, January 20, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, January 20
Can You Hear Me Now?
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for God;
do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
but take delight in the Lord,
and God will grant you the desires of your heart.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 37)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. Today we complete a week of exploring that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Learning to let life come to us can be a challenge. The longer I live, the more I realize that I don’t need to be “doing” nearly as much as I need to be “listening”. When I listen well, many opportunities will come my way. Here is a little teaching that might be helpful as you work on listening to the Holy One.
Our true home is in the present moment
To live in the present moment is a miracle.
The miracle is not to walk on water.
The miracle is to walk on the green Earth in the present moment,
To appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now.
Peace is all around us – in the world and in nature –
And peace is within us –
In our bodies and in our spirits.
Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed.
It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice.
This may be a good weekend for practicing!
--Ben Keckler
01.20.12
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for God;
do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
but take delight in the Lord,
and God will grant you the desires of your heart.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 37)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. Today we complete a week of exploring that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Learning to let life come to us can be a challenge. The longer I live, the more I realize that I don’t need to be “doing” nearly as much as I need to be “listening”. When I listen well, many opportunities will come my way. Here is a little teaching that might be helpful as you work on listening to the Holy One.
Our true home is in the present moment
To live in the present moment is a miracle.
The miracle is not to walk on water.
The miracle is to walk on the green Earth in the present moment,
To appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now.
Peace is all around us – in the world and in nature –
And peace is within us –
In our bodies and in our spirits.
Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed.
It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice.
This may be a good weekend for practicing!
--Ben Keckler
01.20.12
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, January 19
Can You Hear Me Now?
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for God”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 37)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Sounds like the writer of the selected verse was having a pretty good faith day, doesn’t it. They seem to say that there is a way to sense God’s voice when the Holy is trying to say: “Can You Hear Me Now?”
Learning to be still before the Lord and to wait patiently for God is the key to discovering joy and happiness. As we practice these virtues we will probably “hear” God pushing us to share in the brokenness of humanity and to reach out to those in need.
Authentic caregiving leaps forth from the souls of people who are practicing stillness, of people who are listening for God.
Building a world filled with peace and justice starts when we stand in solidarity with the broken, the grieving, the aching persons of our global village. “Can you hear me now?” the Holy One asks. Yes, Lord, we are listening.
--Ben Keckler
01.19.12
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for God”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 37)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Sounds like the writer of the selected verse was having a pretty good faith day, doesn’t it. They seem to say that there is a way to sense God’s voice when the Holy is trying to say: “Can You Hear Me Now?”
Learning to be still before the Lord and to wait patiently for God is the key to discovering joy and happiness. As we practice these virtues we will probably “hear” God pushing us to share in the brokenness of humanity and to reach out to those in need.
Authentic caregiving leaps forth from the souls of people who are practicing stillness, of people who are listening for God.
Building a world filled with peace and justice starts when we stand in solidarity with the broken, the grieving, the aching persons of our global village. “Can you hear me now?” the Holy One asks. Yes, Lord, we are listening.
--Ben Keckler
01.19.12
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, January 18
Can You Hear Me Now?
“Give ear to my prayer, O God;
do not hide yourself from my supplication.
Attend to me, and answer me; I am troubled in my complaint.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 55:1, 2)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Today’s opening verses sound like the writer isn’t quite sure if God is paying attention. Truly life is filled with many moments like this. If you listen to some of the ways we talk in our religious circles, it sounds like God is always paying attention and doing exactly what we hope God will do. I encounter a number of people who feel like the person who penned the opening words to Psalm 55. The following prayer expresses what my heart desires and what I pray regularly. Sometimes when I offer this prayer I’m tempted to be the Verizon wireless guy asking, “Can You Hear Me Now?”
God,
Lead us from death to life, from falsehood to truth.
Lead us from despair to hope, from fear to trust.
I pray for peace to fill my heart, this world and our universe.
I pray that we might dream together,
pray together and work together,
Building one world filled with peace and justice for all. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.18.12
“Give ear to my prayer, O God;
do not hide yourself from my supplication.
Attend to me, and answer me; I am troubled in my complaint.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 55:1, 2)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Today’s opening verses sound like the writer isn’t quite sure if God is paying attention. Truly life is filled with many moments like this. If you listen to some of the ways we talk in our religious circles, it sounds like God is always paying attention and doing exactly what we hope God will do. I encounter a number of people who feel like the person who penned the opening words to Psalm 55. The following prayer expresses what my heart desires and what I pray regularly. Sometimes when I offer this prayer I’m tempted to be the Verizon wireless guy asking, “Can You Hear Me Now?”
God,
Lead us from death to life, from falsehood to truth.
Lead us from despair to hope, from fear to trust.
I pray for peace to fill my heart, this world and our universe.
I pray that we might dream together,
pray together and work together,
Building one world filled with peace and justice for all. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.18.12
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, January 17
Can You Hear Me Now?
“To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, do not refuse to hear me,
for if you are silent to me,
I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 28:1)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Today is going to be a challenging day for this chaplain. A support group for persons trying to emerge after significant deaths in their lives; two counseling sessions with people going through dark times in their lives; visitation requests as per the normal day; and ending with a support group for folks whose world has been forever changed because of suicide. There is a lot on the schedule today and it all looks pretty tough. My insides seem to echo the writer of the old Hebrew psalm. Here is my prayer:
Holy God,
I know you are strong and willing to grant me strength for my day.
Help me to feel your presence and trust that presence
I really do believe for I have felt your amazing grace
Since you already know about the challenges of my day,
forgive me for checking but,
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?
Trusting.
Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.17.12
“To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, do not refuse to hear me,
for if you are silent to me,
I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 28:1)
NOTE: The series of commercials “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Today is going to be a challenging day for this chaplain. A support group for persons trying to emerge after significant deaths in their lives; two counseling sessions with people going through dark times in their lives; visitation requests as per the normal day; and ending with a support group for folks whose world has been forever changed because of suicide. There is a lot on the schedule today and it all looks pretty tough. My insides seem to echo the writer of the old Hebrew psalm. Here is my prayer:
Holy God,
I know you are strong and willing to grant me strength for my day.
Help me to feel your presence and trust that presence
I really do believe for I have felt your amazing grace
Since you already know about the challenges of my day,
forgive me for checking but,
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?
Trusting.
Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.17.12
Monday, January 16, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, January 16
Can You Hear Me Now?
“How long, O Lord?
Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 13:1)
NOTE: The series of commercials, “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Some years ago, Dan Rather interviewed Mother Teresa. My paraphrase of that interview follows:
Rather: “So what do you say when you pray to God?”
Mother Teresa: “Nothing, I just listen.”
Struggling quickly to come up with the next question, probably believing that the answer would be longer,
Rather: “Well, what does God say to you?”
Mother Teresa: “Nothing. He just listens too!”
The Psalmist was feeling silence from the Divine and could keep quiet no longer. The three quick questions that begin this devotional seem to cry out, “Can you hear me now?”
Sometimes prayer is like that.
--Ben Keckler
01.16.12
“How long, O Lord?
Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 13:1)
NOTE: The series of commercials, “Can You Hear Me Now?” developed by Verizon Wireless was quite memorable. This week we dare to explore that question as we look at another wireless connection.
Some years ago, Dan Rather interviewed Mother Teresa. My paraphrase of that interview follows:
Rather: “So what do you say when you pray to God?”
Mother Teresa: “Nothing, I just listen.”
Struggling quickly to come up with the next question, probably believing that the answer would be longer,
Rather: “Well, what does God say to you?”
Mother Teresa: “Nothing. He just listens too!”
The Psalmist was feeling silence from the Divine and could keep quiet no longer. The three quick questions that begin this devotional seem to cry out, “Can you hear me now?”
Sometimes prayer is like that.
--Ben Keckler
01.16.12
Friday, January 13, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, January 13
A New Year Dawns
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
This week’s devotions have been a small tribute to Henri Nouwen, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God. Henri was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century.
Let me finish this week of devotions with an observation made by Henri Nouwen more than two decades ago: “New ways must be found for nations to lift up their unity in global celebration and praise to the Creator in ecstatic, joyful song. Most people despair that such a peace is possible. They cling to old ways and prefer the security offered by preparing for war to the insecurity of taking risks for peace. But the few who dare to sing a new song of peace are the new St. Francises of our time. They offer a glimpse of a new order that is being born out of the ruin of the old. The world is waiting for new saints, ecstatic men and women who are so deeply rooted in the love of God that they are free to envision a new international order – where justice reigns and war is no longer the preferred way to solve conflicts among nations.”
A big task for a new year? Yes indeed. God be with this world.
--Ben Keckler
01.13.12
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
This week’s devotions have been a small tribute to Henri Nouwen, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God. Henri was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century.
Let me finish this week of devotions with an observation made by Henri Nouwen more than two decades ago: “New ways must be found for nations to lift up their unity in global celebration and praise to the Creator in ecstatic, joyful song. Most people despair that such a peace is possible. They cling to old ways and prefer the security offered by preparing for war to the insecurity of taking risks for peace. But the few who dare to sing a new song of peace are the new St. Francises of our time. They offer a glimpse of a new order that is being born out of the ruin of the old. The world is waiting for new saints, ecstatic men and women who are so deeply rooted in the love of God that they are free to envision a new international order – where justice reigns and war is no longer the preferred way to solve conflicts among nations.”
A big task for a new year? Yes indeed. God be with this world.
--Ben Keckler
01.13.12
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, January 12
A New Year Dawns
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
Henri Nouwen was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century. I was privileged to attend some of his presentations. He was an inspiration. Devotions this week have been a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As the New Year continues to unfold, I’d like to share this parable from Henri, written over a quarter of a century ago:
“Once there was a people who surveyed the resources of the world and said to each other: “How can we be sure that we will have enough in hard times? We want to survive whatever happens. Let us start collecting food, materials and knowledge so that we are safe and secure when a crisis occurs.” So they started hoarding, so much and so eagerly that other peoples protested and said: “You have much more than you need, while we don’t have enough to survive. Give us part of your wealth!” But the fearful hoarders said, “No, no, we need to keep this in case of an emergency, in case things go bad for us, too, in case our lives are threatened.” But the others said: “We are dying NOW, please give us food and materials and knowledge to survive. We can’t wait… we need it now!” Then the fearful hoarders became ever more fearful since they became afraid that the poor and hungry would attack them. So they said to one another: “Let us build walls around our wealth so that no stranger can take it from us.” They started erecting walls so high they could not even see anymore whether there were enemies outside the walls or not! As their fear increased they told each other: “Our enemies have become so numerous that they may be able to tear down our walls. Our walls are not strong enough to keep them away. We need to put bombs on top of the walls so that nobody will dare to even come close to us.” But instead of feeling safe and secure behind their armed walls they found themselves trapped in the prison they had built with their own fear. They even became afraid of their own bombs, wondering if they might harm themselves more than their enemy. And gradually they realized their fear of death had brought them closer to it.”
Something to pray through this year, I believe.
--Ben Keckler
01.12.12
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
Henri Nouwen was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century. I was privileged to attend some of his presentations. He was an inspiration. Devotions this week have been a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As the New Year continues to unfold, I’d like to share this parable from Henri, written over a quarter of a century ago:
“Once there was a people who surveyed the resources of the world and said to each other: “How can we be sure that we will have enough in hard times? We want to survive whatever happens. Let us start collecting food, materials and knowledge so that we are safe and secure when a crisis occurs.” So they started hoarding, so much and so eagerly that other peoples protested and said: “You have much more than you need, while we don’t have enough to survive. Give us part of your wealth!” But the fearful hoarders said, “No, no, we need to keep this in case of an emergency, in case things go bad for us, too, in case our lives are threatened.” But the others said: “We are dying NOW, please give us food and materials and knowledge to survive. We can’t wait… we need it now!” Then the fearful hoarders became ever more fearful since they became afraid that the poor and hungry would attack them. So they said to one another: “Let us build walls around our wealth so that no stranger can take it from us.” They started erecting walls so high they could not even see anymore whether there were enemies outside the walls or not! As their fear increased they told each other: “Our enemies have become so numerous that they may be able to tear down our walls. Our walls are not strong enough to keep them away. We need to put bombs on top of the walls so that nobody will dare to even come close to us.” But instead of feeling safe and secure behind their armed walls they found themselves trapped in the prison they had built with their own fear. They even became afraid of their own bombs, wondering if they might harm themselves more than their enemy. And gradually they realized their fear of death had brought them closer to it.”
Something to pray through this year, I believe.
--Ben Keckler
01.12.12
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, January 11
A New Year Dawns
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: Henri Nouwen was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
We have arrived at the middle of the second full week in the New Year. Today I would like to challenge us to think about the tensions between curing and caregiving. A person comes to us not feeling well. They obviously want to feel better than they do. What is our role?
I would think that the obvious answer is that we would find a way to “cure” them. How might this curing be accomplished? Most generally we do this through listening. A stethoscope is a great instrument; while I am not skilled in using one, I’ve been privileged to have trained persons tell me about the things they hear. Another way we cure is through observing. A tongue depressor or an otoscope can be helpful instruments, allowing persons to gather information for possible cure. The reality is that the presenting person appears to be seeking “health” and is looking for something to help them as soon as possible. Allow Henri to offer an additional insight:
“When we honestly ask ourselves which persons in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not-knowing, not-curing, not-healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is the friend who cares.”
--Ben Keckler
01.11.12
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: Henri Nouwen was one of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
We have arrived at the middle of the second full week in the New Year. Today I would like to challenge us to think about the tensions between curing and caregiving. A person comes to us not feeling well. They obviously want to feel better than they do. What is our role?
I would think that the obvious answer is that we would find a way to “cure” them. How might this curing be accomplished? Most generally we do this through listening. A stethoscope is a great instrument; while I am not skilled in using one, I’ve been privileged to have trained persons tell me about the things they hear. Another way we cure is through observing. A tongue depressor or an otoscope can be helpful instruments, allowing persons to gather information for possible cure. The reality is that the presenting person appears to be seeking “health” and is looking for something to help them as soon as possible. Allow Henri to offer an additional insight:
“When we honestly ask ourselves which persons in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not-knowing, not-curing, not-healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is the friend who cares.”
--Ben Keckler
01.11.12
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, January 10
A New Year Dawns
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: One of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century was Henri Nouwen. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As we begin a new year, I would pray that we would begin the year with hope. Here is a story that Henri liked to tell about the meaning of compassion. I use it today as a reminder about our commitment to offer quality, compassionate care.
“Once there was a very old man who used to meditate early every morning under a large tree on the bank of the Ganges River in India. One morning, having finished his meditation, the old man opened his eyes and saw a scorpion floating helplessly in the strong current of the river. As the scorpion was pulled close to the tree, it got caught in the long tree roots that branched out far into the river. The scorpion struggled frantically to free itself but got more and more entangled in the complex network of the tree roots.
“When the old man saw this he immediately stretched himself onto the extended roots and reached out to rescue the drowning scorpion. But as soon as he touched it, the animal jerked and stung him wildly. Instinctively, the man withdrew his hand, but then, after having regained his balance, he once again stretched himself out along the roots to save the agonized scorpion. But every time the old man came within reach, the scorpion stung him so badly with its poisonous tail that his hands became swollen and bloody and his face distorted by pain.
“At that moment, a passerby saw the old man stretched out on the roots struggling with the scorpion and shouted: ‘Hey, stupid old man, what’s wrong with you? Only a fool risks his life for the sake of an ugly, useless creature. Don’t you know that you may kill yourself to save that ungrateful animal?’
“Slowly the old man turned his head, and looking calmly in the stranger’s eyes, he said: “Friend, because it is the nature of the scorpion to sting, why should I give up my own nature to save?”
--Ben Keckler
01.10.12
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: One of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century was Henri Nouwen. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As we begin a new year, I would pray that we would begin the year with hope. Here is a story that Henri liked to tell about the meaning of compassion. I use it today as a reminder about our commitment to offer quality, compassionate care.
“Once there was a very old man who used to meditate early every morning under a large tree on the bank of the Ganges River in India. One morning, having finished his meditation, the old man opened his eyes and saw a scorpion floating helplessly in the strong current of the river. As the scorpion was pulled close to the tree, it got caught in the long tree roots that branched out far into the river. The scorpion struggled frantically to free itself but got more and more entangled in the complex network of the tree roots.
“When the old man saw this he immediately stretched himself onto the extended roots and reached out to rescue the drowning scorpion. But as soon as he touched it, the animal jerked and stung him wildly. Instinctively, the man withdrew his hand, but then, after having regained his balance, he once again stretched himself out along the roots to save the agonized scorpion. But every time the old man came within reach, the scorpion stung him so badly with its poisonous tail that his hands became swollen and bloody and his face distorted by pain.
“At that moment, a passerby saw the old man stretched out on the roots struggling with the scorpion and shouted: ‘Hey, stupid old man, what’s wrong with you? Only a fool risks his life for the sake of an ugly, useless creature. Don’t you know that you may kill yourself to save that ungrateful animal?’
“Slowly the old man turned his head, and looking calmly in the stranger’s eyes, he said: “Friend, because it is the nature of the scorpion to sting, why should I give up my own nature to save?”
--Ben Keckler
01.10.12
Monday, January 9, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, January 9
A New Year Dawns
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: One of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century was Henri Nouwen. I was privileged to attend several of his presentations on my personal journey. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As we begin a new year, I would pray that we would begin the year with hope. There is trouble all around us and it takes many different forms. Where is the message of hope? Where is God?
Within our health care system several hundred people will be treated today. For some the news will be routine, for others the news may be quite unexpected. Where is the message of hope? Where is God?
Henri writes, “God is ‘beyond’, beyond our heart and mind, beyond our feelings and thoughts, beyond our expectations and desires, and beyond all the events and experiences that make up our life. Still God is also in the center of all of it. Here we touch the heart of prayer since here it comes manifest that in prayer the distinction between God’s presence and absence cannot be distinguished. … When God chose to share our own most painful experience of divine absence, God became most present to us. It is into this mystery that we enter when we pray.”
--Ben Keckler
01.09.12
“God has put a new song in my mouth,
it is a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear,
And put their trust in the Lord.”
--An ancient Hebrew song (Psalm 40:3)
NOTE: One of the finest spiritual guides of the 20th century was Henri Nouwen. I was privileged to attend several of his presentations on my personal journey. This week’s devotions are a small tribute to Henri, a teacher who faithfully pointed people to God.
As we begin a new year, I would pray that we would begin the year with hope. There is trouble all around us and it takes many different forms. Where is the message of hope? Where is God?
Within our health care system several hundred people will be treated today. For some the news will be routine, for others the news may be quite unexpected. Where is the message of hope? Where is God?
Henri writes, “God is ‘beyond’, beyond our heart and mind, beyond our feelings and thoughts, beyond our expectations and desires, and beyond all the events and experiences that make up our life. Still God is also in the center of all of it. Here we touch the heart of prayer since here it comes manifest that in prayer the distinction between God’s presence and absence cannot be distinguished. … When God chose to share our own most painful experience of divine absence, God became most present to us. It is into this mystery that we enter when we pray.”
--Ben Keckler
01.09.12
Friday, January 6, 2012
Daily Devotion - Friday, January 6
Toward a New Dawn
Friends,
2% of 2012 will be history at the end of the day. I trust that this prayer will help each of us to utilize the rest of the year wisely.
“Help me to let go of my preoccupations with the future.
Give me the strength to stop my futile attempts
To predict and control the future.
Let me see no value in my plan of what the future should be.
Rid me of my senseless questions about tomorrow
And of all my desires to exercise control of others.
“Remind me that my fears and uncertainties of tomorrow
are only related to my unfounded fear of You.
“Help me to be still; help me listen and love.
“Let me feel Your Freedom within me,
And let me laugh at the illusions that my ego
once made me feel were so real.
Let me be the Light; let me be joy; let me know that
I am
The reflection of You wherever I am,
And wherever I go."
--Gerald G. Jampolsky
--Ben Keckler
01.06.12
Friends,
2% of 2012 will be history at the end of the day. I trust that this prayer will help each of us to utilize the rest of the year wisely.
“Help me to let go of my preoccupations with the future.
Give me the strength to stop my futile attempts
To predict and control the future.
Let me see no value in my plan of what the future should be.
Rid me of my senseless questions about tomorrow
And of all my desires to exercise control of others.
“Remind me that my fears and uncertainties of tomorrow
are only related to my unfounded fear of You.
“Help me to be still; help me listen and love.
“Let me feel Your Freedom within me,
And let me laugh at the illusions that my ego
once made me feel were so real.
Let me be the Light; let me be joy; let me know that
I am
The reflection of You wherever I am,
And wherever I go."
--Gerald G. Jampolsky
--Ben Keckler
01.06.12
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Daily Devotion - Thursday, January 5
Toward A New Dawn
Friends:
I believe these words, when understood and practiced, can lead each of us to an even better place in 2012.
After a while you learn the subtle difference
between holding a hand and chaining a soul.
And you learn that love doesn’t mean leaning
and company doesn’t mean security.
And you begin to learn that kisses aren’t compromises
and presents aren’t promises.
And you begin to accept your defeats
with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of a woman or a man, not the grief of a child.
Because tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.
After a while you learn that even sunshine burns if you ask too much.
So you plant your own garden
and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone to buy you flowers.
And you learn that you really can endure,
that you really are strong,
And you really do have worth.
And you learn. And you learn.
With every difficulty or failure, you learn.
Anonymous
--Ben Keckler
01.05.12
Friends:
I believe these words, when understood and practiced, can lead each of us to an even better place in 2012.
After a while you learn the subtle difference
between holding a hand and chaining a soul.
And you learn that love doesn’t mean leaning
and company doesn’t mean security.
And you begin to learn that kisses aren’t compromises
and presents aren’t promises.
And you begin to accept your defeats
with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of a woman or a man, not the grief of a child.
Because tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.
After a while you learn that even sunshine burns if you ask too much.
So you plant your own garden
and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone to buy you flowers.
And you learn that you really can endure,
that you really are strong,
And you really do have worth.
And you learn. And you learn.
With every difficulty or failure, you learn.
Anonymous
--Ben Keckler
01.05.12
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Daily Devotion - Wednesday, January 4
Toward A New Dawn
Friends:
I find this prayer by Jennie Butler to be filled with insight as a new year begins. Enjoy meditating with these strong images today.
“Infinite Spirit, when I pray each day for shelter for the homeless,
let me not ignore the pet without a home;
“As I ask for protection for those in areas of turmoil and unrest,
let me not forget endangered species of life;
“When I pray that the hungry be fed,
let me be mindful that all God’s creatures have need of sustenance;
“As I ask Divine assistance for those afflicted by fire,
flood, earthquake, storm or drought,
let me remember that this includes every living thing;
“In seeking miracle cures for human disease,
may I also speak for the well being of the planet itself.
“Let the words of my mouth, the meditations of my heart
and the actions of my life be as one,
that I may live each day in harmony with Mother Earth.
Amen.”
Jennie Frost Butler
--Ben Keckler
01.04.12
Friends:
I find this prayer by Jennie Butler to be filled with insight as a new year begins. Enjoy meditating with these strong images today.
“Infinite Spirit, when I pray each day for shelter for the homeless,
let me not ignore the pet without a home;
“As I ask for protection for those in areas of turmoil and unrest,
let me not forget endangered species of life;
“When I pray that the hungry be fed,
let me be mindful that all God’s creatures have need of sustenance;
“As I ask Divine assistance for those afflicted by fire,
flood, earthquake, storm or drought,
let me remember that this includes every living thing;
“In seeking miracle cures for human disease,
may I also speak for the well being of the planet itself.
“Let the words of my mouth, the meditations of my heart
and the actions of my life be as one,
that I may live each day in harmony with Mother Earth.
Amen.”
Jennie Frost Butler
--Ben Keckler
01.04.12
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Daily Devotion - Tuesday, January 3
Toward a New Dawn
Friends:
I find this powerful observation meaningful for launching into a new year. I trust that you can find time to meditate with these words.
“This being human is a guest house.
Every morning is a new arrival.
“A joy, a depression, a mean-ness,
Some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.
“Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house
Empty of its furniture,
Still, treat each guest honorably.
The Holy One may be clearing you out for some new delight.
“The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
Meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in.
“Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent
As a guide from beyond.”
--Rumi, as translated by Coleman Barks
--Ben Keckler
01.03.12
Friends:
I find this powerful observation meaningful for launching into a new year. I trust that you can find time to meditate with these words.
“This being human is a guest house.
Every morning is a new arrival.
“A joy, a depression, a mean-ness,
Some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.
“Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house
Empty of its furniture,
Still, treat each guest honorably.
The Holy One may be clearing you out for some new delight.
“The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
Meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in.
“Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent
As a guide from beyond.”
--Rumi, as translated by Coleman Barks
--Ben Keckler
01.03.12
Monday, January 2, 2012
Daily Devotion - Monday, January 2
A New Year Begins
Creator of all that was, is and what is yet to be,
Holy Presence that knows about our chaos and conflict,
Instill within people a spirit of peace and a desire for understanding.
Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.02.12
Creator of all that was, is and what is yet to be,
Holy Presence that knows about our chaos and conflict,
Instill within people a spirit of peace and a desire for understanding.
Amen.
--Ben Keckler
01.02.12
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