The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
God seems to be remote, but nothing is as close as (God) is. When we think (God) is close, then (God) is remote; when we think (God) is remote, then (God) is near… The bridge to God is awe.
…We have no nouns by which to describe (God’s) essence; we have only adverbs by which to indicate the ways in which (God) acts toward us.
It is always God who acts…and God is always acting on our behalf...for our well being…for our growth...for the new life that is available and ready for us to enter. Too often, we can be quite tempted to claim that God is our God – packaged as we like and working in a way that would be somewhat in agreement with how we think life – the world – and the cosmos need to be. And yet, in all that speculation for our own benefit, we miss out on the wonder-filled ways God engages us – for our God never stops engaging us. Notice that when we attempt to use adverbs to speak about our God, we are not at all in control of how our God works. Rather, we watch…we wonder…we are filled with awe.
Connection: Our use of language is important. The manner in which we speak about God says quite a bit about how we view our lives and how we go about our day. Listen to how God is addressed by others & one another. We may find out that we need to let go of some of our need to control our God – a futile adventure in and of itself. We may discover how our God steps into our day to be among us.
Come, Lord and dwell among us so that we may find our hope in you alone. Open our eyes to see how you engage us and invite us into new life within this day. Amen.
Monday, June 30, 2003
Friday, June 27, 2003
Friday, 27 June, 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 7:21-23
Not everyone who says to me, "Lord. Lord," will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many deeds of power in your name?" Then I will declare to them, "I never knew you; go away from me, you evil doers."
Much like the text from yesterday, we are called to consider our "fruits"...or as it is described here, "one who does the will of my Father in heaven." It is one thing to have to announce everything we do. It is quite another to simply be involved in the will of God as though it is the norm and the expectation of the day. No need to make much of what we have done or are doing if what we are doing is what we do all the time! Doing God's will in our lives is a life -- not a mere listing of when we did something in God's name Rather than listing the "deeds" that have been done, why not rest in knowledge that we are involved in lives that are knit together by the weightier issues of the law...like mercy, justice, loving kindness, love for others. In that way, we would be tying God's reign into each and every part of the day that there would be no need to lift up the isolated times when we did this or that. Our whole life would be the witness.
Connection: How is it that you enter this day? What is the vision for life you have for yourself as a follower of Jesus and how does that transform everything else you do? Are random acts of kindness - the norm of the day - or are they isolated events that seem to be "out of character" for you? Can we make them a very part of our "character" - part of God's reign?
Be present with us in our day, O Lord. Be here to shape our every deed. Be the word that directs us and keeps us "in character" to the part we play as your daughters and sons. Be the very breath of our life that sustains our actions in your name. Amen.
Text: Matthew 7:21-23
Not everyone who says to me, "Lord. Lord," will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many deeds of power in your name?" Then I will declare to them, "I never knew you; go away from me, you evil doers."
Much like the text from yesterday, we are called to consider our "fruits"...or as it is described here, "one who does the will of my Father in heaven." It is one thing to have to announce everything we do. It is quite another to simply be involved in the will of God as though it is the norm and the expectation of the day. No need to make much of what we have done or are doing if what we are doing is what we do all the time! Doing God's will in our lives is a life -- not a mere listing of when we did something in God's name Rather than listing the "deeds" that have been done, why not rest in knowledge that we are involved in lives that are knit together by the weightier issues of the law...like mercy, justice, loving kindness, love for others. In that way, we would be tying God's reign into each and every part of the day that there would be no need to lift up the isolated times when we did this or that. Our whole life would be the witness.
Connection: How is it that you enter this day? What is the vision for life you have for yourself as a follower of Jesus and how does that transform everything else you do? Are random acts of kindness - the norm of the day - or are they isolated events that seem to be "out of character" for you? Can we make them a very part of our "character" - part of God's reign?
Be present with us in our day, O Lord. Be here to shape our every deed. Be the word that directs us and keeps us "in character" to the part we play as your daughters and sons. Be the very breath of our life that sustains our actions in your name. Amen.
Wednesday, June 25, 2003
26 June, 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 7:13-14
Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. For the gate is narrow and the road is hared that leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Hey, the most popular way may not be the way. It was a minority opinion in the churches of this country to live free from racial bigotry...in fact if you were welcoming, you were, in some cases beaten and in other cases shunned. The Good News is news for life that is just, loving, welcoming, life giving for the welfare of others...that is not...and has never been a majority opinion. Even today, the notion of homogeneous communities seems to be the essential component for growth...and it is! It really works...It really brings folks into churches! At the same time, there is this notion that in Christ we are blessed by our diversity - that is God given! It will always be hard to walk in the way of Jesus for it will always mean giving our lives for the welfare of those who may not be willing to give the same back to us.
Connection: Are you able to see in this day how often you let yourself be ruled by the popular opinion...the accepted norm? That is fine...unless of course it pulls us away from the all inclusive love of God. At times we just need to say no...to the patterns and directions and rules that attempt to stir our lives.
Most blessed Lord of Life, watch over us and keep us in tune with the call of your most beloved child. Press our lives up against those around us that we might never remove ourselves from any of your children. Amen.
Text: Matthew 7:13-14
Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. For the gate is narrow and the road is hared that leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Hey, the most popular way may not be the way. It was a minority opinion in the churches of this country to live free from racial bigotry...in fact if you were welcoming, you were, in some cases beaten and in other cases shunned. The Good News is news for life that is just, loving, welcoming, life giving for the welfare of others...that is not...and has never been a majority opinion. Even today, the notion of homogeneous communities seems to be the essential component for growth...and it is! It really works...It really brings folks into churches! At the same time, there is this notion that in Christ we are blessed by our diversity - that is God given! It will always be hard to walk in the way of Jesus for it will always mean giving our lives for the welfare of those who may not be willing to give the same back to us.
Connection: Are you able to see in this day how often you let yourself be ruled by the popular opinion...the accepted norm? That is fine...unless of course it pulls us away from the all inclusive love of God. At times we just need to say no...to the patterns and directions and rules that attempt to stir our lives.
Most blessed Lord of Life, watch over us and keep us in tune with the call of your most beloved child. Press our lives up against those around us that we might never remove ourselves from any of your children. Amen.
25 June, 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 7:12
In everything do unto others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.
Most every religion has a golden rule like this. In the context of the material in this Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is again pointing to the life that is of God. The whole notion of being "perfect" seems like a pipe dream. Then again, in this simply "rule" we find some wisdom that says, "If you live by this...you will get it right most of the time." For Jesus in Matthew's gospel, this will also come into significance as what he will call the Law of Love. I find it its simplicity a great challenge and something that leads into adventures at every turn of the days events.
Connection: Well...give it a go.
O God of new life, beckon us to love one another and remind us of what it means to us each and every time we are loved by others. Shape us as your loving children. Amen.
Text: Matthew 7:12
In everything do unto others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.
Most every religion has a golden rule like this. In the context of the material in this Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is again pointing to the life that is of God. The whole notion of being "perfect" seems like a pipe dream. Then again, in this simply "rule" we find some wisdom that says, "If you live by this...you will get it right most of the time." For Jesus in Matthew's gospel, this will also come into significance as what he will call the Law of Love. I find it its simplicity a great challenge and something that leads into adventures at every turn of the days events.
Connection: Well...give it a go.
O God of new life, beckon us to love one another and remind us of what it means to us each and every time we are loved by others. Shape us as your loving children. Amen.
Friday, June 20, 2003
Friday, 20 June 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 7:1-5
Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck in you neighbor's eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, "Let me take the speck out of your eye,"while the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of yore neighbor's eye.
Judging is the opposite of forgiving. Have you ever noticed that as we judge others, we keep holding on to an event that has happened rather than getting on with life. You could even say that we let that event rule over us and let it become bigger than life. Our judging can become some what of a "possession." It is like there is no other way we can be. It is a cycle that is difficult to break for often, we come away thinking we are more than the other person - even if just for a moment. Actually, when we judge, we don't let ourselves see our own "stuff" and therefore, we preclude our own personal growth. We are too busy picking on others, we don't let ourselves look into the mirror at what we do.
Connection: I was a Candid Camera fan. So...if you are able - if you are open to it...catch yourself in the act of judging others. It may be a fleeting moment, then again, it may be a whole morning or after noon stewing. Can you let go? Is is possible to look at a situation differently? Please note, I am not asking if you can ignore something has happened or can you bury what has happened and simply change your focus. Can you let go? Can you face someone face-to-face and put the situation on the table to resolve it before judging? I know, tough homework.
God of new life and forgiveness, show us your ways. Save us from going on a crusade to correct others and give us the patience to deal with ourselves and others in a forgiving and gracious manner. Amen
Text: Matthew 7:1-5
Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck in you neighbor's eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, "Let me take the speck out of your eye,"while the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of yore neighbor's eye.
Judging is the opposite of forgiving. Have you ever noticed that as we judge others, we keep holding on to an event that has happened rather than getting on with life. You could even say that we let that event rule over us and let it become bigger than life. Our judging can become some what of a "possession." It is like there is no other way we can be. It is a cycle that is difficult to break for often, we come away thinking we are more than the other person - even if just for a moment. Actually, when we judge, we don't let ourselves see our own "stuff" and therefore, we preclude our own personal growth. We are too busy picking on others, we don't let ourselves look into the mirror at what we do.
Connection: I was a Candid Camera fan. So...if you are able - if you are open to it...catch yourself in the act of judging others. It may be a fleeting moment, then again, it may be a whole morning or after noon stewing. Can you let go? Is is possible to look at a situation differently? Please note, I am not asking if you can ignore something has happened or can you bury what has happened and simply change your focus. Can you let go? Can you face someone face-to-face and put the situation on the table to resolve it before judging? I know, tough homework.
God of new life and forgiveness, show us your ways. Save us from going on a crusade to correct others and give us the patience to deal with ourselves and others in a forgiving and gracious manner. Amen
Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Thursday, 19 June, 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 6:31-34
Therefore do not worry, saying "what will we eat?" or "What will we drink?" or "What will we wear?" For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Perspective is critical to how we look at what is needed in the day. God knows, already, that we need these basics. Actually they are what is needed in order to live within the Reign of God if that Reign has truly arrived in Jesus. But now, do we put the weight of the day on living within the life of the vision of the Reign of God or do we make our focus these things that are needed. It is my guess that when our focus shifts to the "stuff" we need that focus has a way of pulling us...or sucking us...into an immediate concern for those things. Therefore, we can become anxious about not having them or where we are going to get them or how we are going to get them or whether we have "enough". It becomes an never-ending cycle that grabs our attention and we worry our way right out of the life of the Reign of God.
Connection: Stay focused. There will be many things that will call for your attention as you go through this day. Some of them will concern you very much and you must deal with them. Others concerns you will be dumping on yourself - causing much anxiety and worry. How many of those things can you "let go"?
O Lord of the day, remind us of your loving care. Guide us as we look at our world and enter into it with the vision of your Blessed Reign. Lift us out of the worries that can consume us and rob us of life. AMEN
Text: Matthew 6:31-34
Therefore do not worry, saying "what will we eat?" or "What will we drink?" or "What will we wear?" For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Perspective is critical to how we look at what is needed in the day. God knows, already, that we need these basics. Actually they are what is needed in order to live within the Reign of God if that Reign has truly arrived in Jesus. But now, do we put the weight of the day on living within the life of the vision of the Reign of God or do we make our focus these things that are needed. It is my guess that when our focus shifts to the "stuff" we need that focus has a way of pulling us...or sucking us...into an immediate concern for those things. Therefore, we can become anxious about not having them or where we are going to get them or how we are going to get them or whether we have "enough". It becomes an never-ending cycle that grabs our attention and we worry our way right out of the life of the Reign of God.
Connection: Stay focused. There will be many things that will call for your attention as you go through this day. Some of them will concern you very much and you must deal with them. Others concerns you will be dumping on yourself - causing much anxiety and worry. How many of those things can you "let go"?
O Lord of the day, remind us of your loving care. Guide us as we look at our world and enter into it with the vision of your Blessed Reign. Lift us out of the worries that can consume us and rob us of life. AMEN
Wednesday, 18 June, 2003
Due to Pastor Al being out of town, we are providing archived devotions from July of 2000.
Text: Matthew 6:25-
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neithersow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you - you of little faith.
The rest of this passage will be used tomorrow.
There are many things that can cause us to forget the way of life within the Reign of God. Previously we looked a t "mammon," treasures, our piety....but now it is the simple everyday experience of worry or anxiety. That which consummes us through worrying...takes us away from the promise of God to be our God. Our worry can also be a sign of putting more weight and paying more allegiance to something than we need to be doing. The quality of life within the REign of God is more than the way we dress it up - clothes & things that we say we "have to have or else." Again, we come back to the character of our lives. It is so easy to be swept away by the worrys of things around us that we do not let ourselves be settled in the great gift of life that is emerging for us each day. Of course there will be concerns in every day that distress us and need our attention. But then again, they are not the end of all things. We are abundantly blessed with many "jewels" of life as simple as a smile and the person next to us. Jesus reference to the birds and the lilies is quite humbling. Sure we are of a "higher" level of being according to other creatures and parts of creation, and yet from their simple beauty - which we admire greatly - we can learn a bit more about the Creator who puts such things - and us - into place be just who we are.
Connection: A simple question for the worries for this day. Ask yourself why you are giving a situation in your life so much energy and letting it gain control of the moment. What are we trusting...what are we counting on...what are we expecting? How can we remind ourselve of our place before God and how will we let that be our foundation to easy the storms of the day that often bring worries?
Gracious God and Caring Lord, we know you hold us and will never let us go. Help us to be assured of your ever present loving hand that will uphold us in this day. Amen
Text: Matthew 6:25-
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neithersow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you - you of little faith.
The rest of this passage will be used tomorrow.
There are many things that can cause us to forget the way of life within the Reign of God. Previously we looked a t "mammon," treasures, our piety....but now it is the simple everyday experience of worry or anxiety. That which consummes us through worrying...takes us away from the promise of God to be our God. Our worry can also be a sign of putting more weight and paying more allegiance to something than we need to be doing. The quality of life within the REign of God is more than the way we dress it up - clothes & things that we say we "have to have or else." Again, we come back to the character of our lives. It is so easy to be swept away by the worrys of things around us that we do not let ourselves be settled in the great gift of life that is emerging for us each day. Of course there will be concerns in every day that distress us and need our attention. But then again, they are not the end of all things. We are abundantly blessed with many "jewels" of life as simple as a smile and the person next to us. Jesus reference to the birds and the lilies is quite humbling. Sure we are of a "higher" level of being according to other creatures and parts of creation, and yet from their simple beauty - which we admire greatly - we can learn a bit more about the Creator who puts such things - and us - into place be just who we are.
Connection: A simple question for the worries for this day. Ask yourself why you are giving a situation in your life so much energy and letting it gain control of the moment. What are we trusting...what are we counting on...what are we expecting? How can we remind ourselve of our place before God and how will we let that be our foundation to easy the storms of the day that often bring worries?
Gracious God and Caring Lord, we know you hold us and will never let us go. Help us to be assured of your ever present loving hand that will uphold us in this day. Amen
Monday, June 16, 2003
Tuesday, June 17, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Our sense of what is right and wrong may at times be uncertain. What is indubitably certain is our sense of obligation to answer for our conduct. A unique feature of the conscience is that, unlike reason, its main awareness does not lie in conceiving something but in being related to, in being accountable, in being judged as well as in judging. Accountability means to be accountable to someone. Who is that someone? That someone cannot be an abstract law or a blind force; in violating a physical law we never feel any guilt. Nor can it be our own self; the essential admission of the soul is that the self is not its final authority. We have not the power to forgive ourselves the wrongs we have committed. We are open and communicative to someone who transcends us and is concerned with our life.
Picking up from yesterday, the importance of trusting a God who is concerned about us places us within a relationship. The relationship carries demands. The demands have to do with the way we live our lives. It is like, for example, a parent who tells a child, “This is how we act.” From that point on, there is the expectation that life within that family will follow such guidelines as we walk through our life. When we go outside those guidelines, we begin to experience the notion of right or wrong and then direct our lives to be in dialogue with those guidelines and those who claim to live by them. We become accountable. It is common when speaking about ethics that we ask ourselves, how would we act if no one was around? What becomes for us a guide…a rule…a standard? Also, what kind of dialogue is followed within a community that holds common guidelines and expectations? In such a dialogical body, the rights and wrongs can take on a community feel in which they can be changed in time and adjusted. Within our personal life, the expectations of God’s Reign become the character shaping influence among us. Most often, these are spelled out in broad categories that influence our specific actions.
Connection: When you hear that voice that tries to say what is right or wrong, can you tell where it originates? When you speak the words of right or wrong can you tell where that voice enters your life? There may be many fronts to those voices.
Lord God, speak to us of the grand design of your reign. Remind us of the vision for life that truly brings life to us in the midst of all the ways people move through this day. Amen.
Our sense of what is right and wrong may at times be uncertain. What is indubitably certain is our sense of obligation to answer for our conduct. A unique feature of the conscience is that, unlike reason, its main awareness does not lie in conceiving something but in being related to, in being accountable, in being judged as well as in judging. Accountability means to be accountable to someone. Who is that someone? That someone cannot be an abstract law or a blind force; in violating a physical law we never feel any guilt. Nor can it be our own self; the essential admission of the soul is that the self is not its final authority. We have not the power to forgive ourselves the wrongs we have committed. We are open and communicative to someone who transcends us and is concerned with our life.
Picking up from yesterday, the importance of trusting a God who is concerned about us places us within a relationship. The relationship carries demands. The demands have to do with the way we live our lives. It is like, for example, a parent who tells a child, “This is how we act.” From that point on, there is the expectation that life within that family will follow such guidelines as we walk through our life. When we go outside those guidelines, we begin to experience the notion of right or wrong and then direct our lives to be in dialogue with those guidelines and those who claim to live by them. We become accountable. It is common when speaking about ethics that we ask ourselves, how would we act if no one was around? What becomes for us a guide…a rule…a standard? Also, what kind of dialogue is followed within a community that holds common guidelines and expectations? In such a dialogical body, the rights and wrongs can take on a community feel in which they can be changed in time and adjusted. Within our personal life, the expectations of God’s Reign become the character shaping influence among us. Most often, these are spelled out in broad categories that influence our specific actions.
Connection: When you hear that voice that tries to say what is right or wrong, can you tell where it originates? When you speak the words of right or wrong can you tell where that voice enters your life? There may be many fronts to those voices.
Lord God, speak to us of the grand design of your reign. Remind us of the vision for life that truly brings life to us in the midst of all the ways people move through this day. Amen.
Monday, June 16, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
What is the cognitive value of our insights? What is disclosed and what is retained out of such moments? When a person is hit by a bullet, s/he feels the pain, not the bullet. When a person is called to return, s/he feels s/he is being called rather than the call. The guiding hand is hidden; what s/he may sense is his/her being an object of concern. There would be no call to (humanity) without a concern for (humanity).
This is the certainty which overwhelms us in such moments: (humanity) lives not only in time and space but also in the dimension of God’s attentiveness. God is concern, not only power. God is (the One) to whom we are accountable.
It is a wonderful notion to come to understand that we live in the “dimension of God’s attentiveness.” We hear much of God’s power and might but to also be aware of how attentive God is to us…how concerned for us…each of us…individually…and as a people. We must know that in our heart. It is such a realization that empowers us to live as faithful people of our concerned God. Such concern draws us out of ourselves and will connect us to other because with the insight that God is concerned for me…is also the truth that God is concerned…for you…and you…and you. It is no wonder that we are called children of God…the whole bunch of us even beyond our ability to see the likeness of God within our diversity.
Connection: Just imagine how attentive God is…concerned about you! Wonder what that may do to life.
Creating God, you bring into life all that is and then you seek us and call us and yearn to make us your people through your love. When we are in our darkest days or when we try to run from you, remind us of how your concern for our well being never ends…never ends. Amen.
What is the cognitive value of our insights? What is disclosed and what is retained out of such moments? When a person is hit by a bullet, s/he feels the pain, not the bullet. When a person is called to return, s/he feels s/he is being called rather than the call. The guiding hand is hidden; what s/he may sense is his/her being an object of concern. There would be no call to (humanity) without a concern for (humanity).
This is the certainty which overwhelms us in such moments: (humanity) lives not only in time and space but also in the dimension of God’s attentiveness. God is concern, not only power. God is (the One) to whom we are accountable.
It is a wonderful notion to come to understand that we live in the “dimension of God’s attentiveness.” We hear much of God’s power and might but to also be aware of how attentive God is to us…how concerned for us…each of us…individually…and as a people. We must know that in our heart. It is such a realization that empowers us to live as faithful people of our concerned God. Such concern draws us out of ourselves and will connect us to other because with the insight that God is concerned for me…is also the truth that God is concerned…for you…and you…and you. It is no wonder that we are called children of God…the whole bunch of us even beyond our ability to see the likeness of God within our diversity.
Connection: Just imagine how attentive God is…concerned about you! Wonder what that may do to life.
Creating God, you bring into life all that is and then you seek us and call us and yearn to make us your people through your love. When we are in our darkest days or when we try to run from you, remind us of how your concern for our well being never ends…never ends. Amen.
Thursday, June 12, 2003
Friday, June 13, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
…God is not indifferent to (humanity’s) quest of (God). (God) is in need of (humanity), in need of (humanity’s) share in redemption. God who created the world is not at home in the world, in its dark alleys of misery, callousness, and defiance…
the words, “I am a stranger on earth” (Psalm 119:19), were interpreted to refer to God. God is a stranger in the world. The Shechinah, the presence of God, is in exile. Our task is to bring God back into the world, into our lives. To worship is to expand the presence of God in the world. To have faith in God is to reveal what is concealed.
Reading through this, I noted what I would see is a difference between Heschel’s idea of God’s involvement in the ways of humanity and that of the followers of Jesus. We would say God, incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth, enters and lives and moves within the dark alleys of misery, callousness, and defiance. We follow a Lord who is very present in these mundane and brutal places of real life. In fact, we know more about God through seeing God in the flesh in Jesus. I must agree though, that even if Jesus is God in the flesh, Jesus was still a stranger. The ways of God are always strange within a world that is unwilling to follow the ways of God’ reign. People of faith are called to exercise our faith…that is, worship, pray, and make this God who is a stranger as close as we can be to others around us. By the power of the Holy Spirit, the presence of our God is made known through us.
Connection: How might the presence of God be expanded through you today? Consider that prayerfully and who knows what will appear around us.
Lord of Life, be present in this place and time…be present among your people as Jesus was once among us even unto death. Amen.
…God is not indifferent to (humanity’s) quest of (God). (God) is in need of (humanity), in need of (humanity’s) share in redemption. God who created the world is not at home in the world, in its dark alleys of misery, callousness, and defiance…
the words, “I am a stranger on earth” (Psalm 119:19), were interpreted to refer to God. God is a stranger in the world. The Shechinah, the presence of God, is in exile. Our task is to bring God back into the world, into our lives. To worship is to expand the presence of God in the world. To have faith in God is to reveal what is concealed.
Reading through this, I noted what I would see is a difference between Heschel’s idea of God’s involvement in the ways of humanity and that of the followers of Jesus. We would say God, incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth, enters and lives and moves within the dark alleys of misery, callousness, and defiance. We follow a Lord who is very present in these mundane and brutal places of real life. In fact, we know more about God through seeing God in the flesh in Jesus. I must agree though, that even if Jesus is God in the flesh, Jesus was still a stranger. The ways of God are always strange within a world that is unwilling to follow the ways of God’ reign. People of faith are called to exercise our faith…that is, worship, pray, and make this God who is a stranger as close as we can be to others around us. By the power of the Holy Spirit, the presence of our God is made known through us.
Connection: How might the presence of God be expanded through you today? Consider that prayerfully and who knows what will appear around us.
Lord of Life, be present in this place and time…be present among your people as Jesus was once among us even unto death. Amen.
Wednesday, June 11, 2003
Thursday, June 12, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Faith includes faithfulness, strength of waiting, the acceptance of (God’s) concealment, defiance of history.
O Lord our God,
Other lords besides You have had dominion over us,
But Your name alone we acknowledge. Isaiah 26:13
Even in the face of what is…the movement of events in the world…the record of what has taken place and who rules, God is Lord of all. That has been the faithfulness that has shaped God’s people in every generation. We cannot follow the lords of the world no matter how persuasive and powerful they may be. We wait…we trust that God reigns even when we see no complete manifestation of God’s rule. Sure there are other powers and lords that have us under their rule, but we are always called to follow, even unto death and into new life, our God who is eternally present.
Connection: It is a promise that our God will be for us and present with us and a source of power for life no matter what the condition of the world may be. In the face of all that attempts to pull us into submission, how do we stay focused on the reign of God and the life it offers to us in the face of all other things?
We praise you, O God, for you alone have the power to make all things new. Keep us ever mindful of your abundant grace and the many ways you lead us into life eternal and help us resist the powers that seek to win our hearts. Amen.
Faith includes faithfulness, strength of waiting, the acceptance of (God’s) concealment, defiance of history.
O Lord our God,
Other lords besides You have had dominion over us,
But Your name alone we acknowledge. Isaiah 26:13
Even in the face of what is…the movement of events in the world…the record of what has taken place and who rules, God is Lord of all. That has been the faithfulness that has shaped God’s people in every generation. We cannot follow the lords of the world no matter how persuasive and powerful they may be. We wait…we trust that God reigns even when we see no complete manifestation of God’s rule. Sure there are other powers and lords that have us under their rule, but we are always called to follow, even unto death and into new life, our God who is eternally present.
Connection: It is a promise that our God will be for us and present with us and a source of power for life no matter what the condition of the world may be. In the face of all that attempts to pull us into submission, how do we stay focused on the reign of God and the life it offers to us in the face of all other things?
We praise you, O God, for you alone have the power to make all things new. Keep us ever mindful of your abundant grace and the many ways you lead us into life eternal and help us resist the powers that seek to win our hearts. Amen.
Wednesday, June 11, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Faith in the living God is, we repeat, not easily attained. Had it been possible to prove (God’s) existence beyond dispute, atheism would have been refuted as an error long ago. Had it been possible to awaken in every (person) the power to answer (God’s) ultimate question, the great prophets would have achieved it long ago. Tragic is the embarrassment of the (person) of faith. “My tears have been my food day and night, while they say unto me all the day, where is they God?” (Psalm 42:4).
It seems like having faith includes being taken to the edge of what is and therefore it can be a place far away from the experience of everyday life. Therefore, it is often an “odd” position or place to be. The prophets called the people into a life of justice, mercy and care for one another. It was a far cry from the ways of society and how society turns in on itself and become self-consumed and self-centered. It is much easier to follow the flow and ways of society than to enter into lives of faithfulness to our God – it is not as though the life of faith brings one rewards and success that would serve to draw people into having faith in God promises. The person of faith is often standing alone on a ledge and ready to be pushed off of it because s/he cannot offer concrete proof in God’s very existence let alone the vision of God’s reign.
Connection: We live within a promise. That means we live with a sense of integrity that is based on and draws from that promise. Therefore, we may be called into actions within this day that may seem to be quite contrary to what our world is teaching us to be.
Lord God, encourage our faithfulness so that in our moments of doubt we may continue to find peace within your promises and see life in new and joy filled ways. Amen.
Faith in the living God is, we repeat, not easily attained. Had it been possible to prove (God’s) existence beyond dispute, atheism would have been refuted as an error long ago. Had it been possible to awaken in every (person) the power to answer (God’s) ultimate question, the great prophets would have achieved it long ago. Tragic is the embarrassment of the (person) of faith. “My tears have been my food day and night, while they say unto me all the day, where is they God?” (Psalm 42:4).
It seems like having faith includes being taken to the edge of what is and therefore it can be a place far away from the experience of everyday life. Therefore, it is often an “odd” position or place to be. The prophets called the people into a life of justice, mercy and care for one another. It was a far cry from the ways of society and how society turns in on itself and become self-consumed and self-centered. It is much easier to follow the flow and ways of society than to enter into lives of faithfulness to our God – it is not as though the life of faith brings one rewards and success that would serve to draw people into having faith in God promises. The person of faith is often standing alone on a ledge and ready to be pushed off of it because s/he cannot offer concrete proof in God’s very existence let alone the vision of God’s reign.
Connection: We live within a promise. That means we live with a sense of integrity that is based on and draws from that promise. Therefore, we may be called into actions within this day that may seem to be quite contrary to what our world is teaching us to be.
Lord God, encourage our faithfulness so that in our moments of doubt we may continue to find peace within your promises and see life in new and joy filled ways. Amen.
Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Tuesday, June 10, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Faith is not the same as belief, not the same as the attitude of regarding something as true. When the people of Israel worshiped a golden calf, forty days after Sinai, their belief in the event was surely present. Faith is an act of the whole person, of mind, will, and heart. Faith is sensitivity, understanding, engagement, and attachment; not something achieved once and for all, but an attitude one may gain and lose.
This may seem like a small distinction….but it is a great one. We all use these words (belief & faith) in many ways. It appears that the point being made here about faith is that it demands everything – our whole being. There are no facts that are listed and then we make a decision that these facts are indeed true. Facts can be discarded for what ever is to come along next. The event of Sinai bit the dust once the golden calf was made. We could say it took the next generation of wilderness wandering to help the people of Israel…give their whole lives to this God who rescues and sustains. The community of faith is much needed because within that community, we continue to bath ourselves in the wonder and awe – the presence of God that is available and for us. Alone, it is so easy to simply believe what we see and the data of the day given to us. We gather as people of faith to make sure the sensitivity and vision and power of God’s reign stays fresh among us even in the face of whatever pulls at us.
Connection: Our God has given us vision to see God’s never ending claim on us. It is always important for us to affirm that claim everyday. Like exercising, it shapes our whole life.
Lord lead us and hold us and shake us up so that we may continue to focus on the ways of your Reign even as we walk through the parts of our day when we would often choose to follow and trust other things around. Amen.
Faith is not the same as belief, not the same as the attitude of regarding something as true. When the people of Israel worshiped a golden calf, forty days after Sinai, their belief in the event was surely present. Faith is an act of the whole person, of mind, will, and heart. Faith is sensitivity, understanding, engagement, and attachment; not something achieved once and for all, but an attitude one may gain and lose.
This may seem like a small distinction….but it is a great one. We all use these words (belief & faith) in many ways. It appears that the point being made here about faith is that it demands everything – our whole being. There are no facts that are listed and then we make a decision that these facts are indeed true. Facts can be discarded for what ever is to come along next. The event of Sinai bit the dust once the golden calf was made. We could say it took the next generation of wilderness wandering to help the people of Israel…give their whole lives to this God who rescues and sustains. The community of faith is much needed because within that community, we continue to bath ourselves in the wonder and awe – the presence of God that is available and for us. Alone, it is so easy to simply believe what we see and the data of the day given to us. We gather as people of faith to make sure the sensitivity and vision and power of God’s reign stays fresh among us even in the face of whatever pulls at us.
Connection: Our God has given us vision to see God’s never ending claim on us. It is always important for us to affirm that claim everyday. Like exercising, it shapes our whole life.
Lord lead us and hold us and shake us up so that we may continue to focus on the ways of your Reign even as we walk through the parts of our day when we would often choose to follow and trust other things around. Amen.
Monday, June 9, 2003
Monday, June 9, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
There is no faith at first sight. A faith that comes into being like a butterfly is ephemeral. (One) who is swift to believe is swift to forget.
Faith does not come into being out of nothing, inadvertently, unprepared, as an unearthed surprise. Faith is preceded by awe, by acts of amazement at things that we apprehend but cannot comprehend. In the story of the Red Sea we read: “Israel saw the great works which the Lord did…and the people feared the Lord…and they believed in the Lord.” (Exodus 14:31). We must learn how to see “the miracles which are daily with us”; we must learn how to live in awe, in order to attain the insights of faith.
In the gospels and in the Book of Acts, it is interesting to see when people are “filled with amazement” or “terror and amazement” or “perplexed” or “filled with wonder and amazement.” It is also interesting to see what happens next. The come to trust/have faith…or…they try to react violently to what it was that was so amazing. I think Heschel’s comment that “acts of amazement” are at “things that we apprehend but cannot comprehend.” It is as though we see…we connect…we are thrown for a loop…we cannot grab hold of the whole thing…and yet we are draw/pulled forward to trust…to go forward with no absolute proof of anything...and yet we go. The future becomes that which is engaged with a sense of awe and wonder…and therefore with a sense of openness to what may take place….trusting….faith.
Connection: There are many ways that we brush against the wonder of God’s reign each day. It may well be the beginning of a new adventure in which we have faith in our God to lead us and guide us into our next brush with God’s reign.
Lord of New Life, take hold of us and let your Spirit sweep us off our feet and shake us up so that we may look with new eyes…eyes of faith at the day ahead. Amen.
There is no faith at first sight. A faith that comes into being like a butterfly is ephemeral. (One) who is swift to believe is swift to forget.
Faith does not come into being out of nothing, inadvertently, unprepared, as an unearthed surprise. Faith is preceded by awe, by acts of amazement at things that we apprehend but cannot comprehend. In the story of the Red Sea we read: “Israel saw the great works which the Lord did…and the people feared the Lord…and they believed in the Lord.” (Exodus 14:31). We must learn how to see “the miracles which are daily with us”; we must learn how to live in awe, in order to attain the insights of faith.
In the gospels and in the Book of Acts, it is interesting to see when people are “filled with amazement” or “terror and amazement” or “perplexed” or “filled with wonder and amazement.” It is also interesting to see what happens next. The come to trust/have faith…or…they try to react violently to what it was that was so amazing. I think Heschel’s comment that “acts of amazement” are at “things that we apprehend but cannot comprehend.” It is as though we see…we connect…we are thrown for a loop…we cannot grab hold of the whole thing…and yet we are draw/pulled forward to trust…to go forward with no absolute proof of anything...and yet we go. The future becomes that which is engaged with a sense of awe and wonder…and therefore with a sense of openness to what may take place….trusting….faith.
Connection: There are many ways that we brush against the wonder of God’s reign each day. It may well be the beginning of a new adventure in which we have faith in our God to lead us and guide us into our next brush with God’s reign.
Lord of New Life, take hold of us and let your Spirit sweep us off our feet and shake us up so that we may look with new eyes…eyes of faith at the day ahead. Amen.
Friday, June 6, 2003
Friday, June 6, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Just as clairvoyants may see the future, the religious (person) comes to sense the present moment. And this is an extreme achievement. For the present is the presence of God. Things have a past and a future, but only God is pure presence.
I immediately thought of the story of Moses and the burning bush. With all that had gone on in Moses life and all that was about to go on, the only time and space that was of ultimate concern was that moment. Facing the burning bush, taking off his sandals and being in the utter presence of God happened in the here and now for Moses. There are many reasons to want to ignore the present moment and be concerned about past and future events. And yet, to give ourselves over to the time at hand allows us to begin our day with a new and powerful sense of the vitality of life that surrounds us.
Connection: Burning bushes grab our attention…and yet we can still blow it all off. It is a gift for life to stop and pay attention to the many ways God will coax us into standing alongside the God who is available to us within this time.
Creating God, keep us aware of your never failing presence and love so that we may face this day with confidence and with a keen awareness of the potential that is at hand. Amen.
Just as clairvoyants may see the future, the religious (person) comes to sense the present moment. And this is an extreme achievement. For the present is the presence of God. Things have a past and a future, but only God is pure presence.
I immediately thought of the story of Moses and the burning bush. With all that had gone on in Moses life and all that was about to go on, the only time and space that was of ultimate concern was that moment. Facing the burning bush, taking off his sandals and being in the utter presence of God happened in the here and now for Moses. There are many reasons to want to ignore the present moment and be concerned about past and future events. And yet, to give ourselves over to the time at hand allows us to begin our day with a new and powerful sense of the vitality of life that surrounds us.
Connection: Burning bushes grab our attention…and yet we can still blow it all off. It is a gift for life to stop and pay attention to the many ways God will coax us into standing alongside the God who is available to us within this time.
Creating God, keep us aware of your never failing presence and love so that we may face this day with confidence and with a keen awareness of the potential that is at hand. Amen.
Wednesday, June 4, 2003
Thursday, June 5, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
The essence of Jewish religious thinking does not lie in entertaining a concept of God but in the ability to articulate a memory of moments of illumination by (God’s) presence. Israel is not a people of definers but a people of witness: “You are my witnesses” (Isaiah 43:10). Reminders of what has been disclosed to us are hanging over our souls like stars, remote and of mind-surpassing grandeur. They shine through dark and dangerous ages, and their reflection can be seen in the lives of those who guard the path of conscience and memory in the wilderness of careless living.
Too often, we become nothing more than “definers.” For me that means the Church gets caught in a game that is so involved with clarifying what can and cannot be a part of the faithful, that we do not let ourselves be faithful to the witness. We are to be witnesses to the resurrection life in Jesus….witnesses to the feast of victory…witnesses to the life of the beloved community. Unfortunately, we can be so afraid of what is the right or wrong that we leave no witness at all. That’s why it takes us so long to work through the issues of the day around which the Church could give great witness to the love of God and the life of God’s Reign. We would rather be right (right to some criteria of definition that fits for now) than to let the flowing stream of justice, peace, loving kindness and forgiveness flow like a stream or shine like the stars in the sky.
Connection: We may not be right or wrong today…but what is it that we hold up as a witness to the reign of God? The simple self-sacrificing acts of loving kindness may leave a witness that changes hearts or makes other long to leave a witness to our God within their own lives.
Shine, Lord God, Shine, and let your life make our lives shine with the encouraging love and grace of your blessed reign. Keep us focused on the great witnesses of the faith that have gone before us and inspire us to let your light shine among us. Amen.
The essence of Jewish religious thinking does not lie in entertaining a concept of God but in the ability to articulate a memory of moments of illumination by (God’s) presence. Israel is not a people of definers but a people of witness: “You are my witnesses” (Isaiah 43:10). Reminders of what has been disclosed to us are hanging over our souls like stars, remote and of mind-surpassing grandeur. They shine through dark and dangerous ages, and their reflection can be seen in the lives of those who guard the path of conscience and memory in the wilderness of careless living.
Too often, we become nothing more than “definers.” For me that means the Church gets caught in a game that is so involved with clarifying what can and cannot be a part of the faithful, that we do not let ourselves be faithful to the witness. We are to be witnesses to the resurrection life in Jesus….witnesses to the feast of victory…witnesses to the life of the beloved community. Unfortunately, we can be so afraid of what is the right or wrong that we leave no witness at all. That’s why it takes us so long to work through the issues of the day around which the Church could give great witness to the love of God and the life of God’s Reign. We would rather be right (right to some criteria of definition that fits for now) than to let the flowing stream of justice, peace, loving kindness and forgiveness flow like a stream or shine like the stars in the sky.
Connection: We may not be right or wrong today…but what is it that we hold up as a witness to the reign of God? The simple self-sacrificing acts of loving kindness may leave a witness that changes hearts or makes other long to leave a witness to our God within their own lives.
Shine, Lord God, Shine, and let your life make our lives shine with the encouraging love and grace of your blessed reign. Keep us focused on the great witnesses of the faith that have gone before us and inspire us to let your light shine among us. Amen.
Tuesday, June 3, 2003
Wednesday, June 4, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Faith comes out of awe, out of an awareness that we are exposed to (God’s) presence, out of anxiety to answer the challenge of God, out of an awareness of our being called upon. Religion consists of God’s question and (humanity’s) answer. The way to faith is the way of faith. The way to God is the way of God. Unless God asks the question, all our inquiries are in vain.
The answer lasts a moment, the commitment continues. Unless the awareness of the ineffable mystery of existence becomes a permanent state of mind, all that remains is a commitment without faith. To strengthen our alertness, to refine our appreciation of the mystery is the meaning of worship and observance. For faith does not remain stationary. We must continue to pray, continue to obey to be able to believe and to remain attached to (God’s) presence.
We all need to remember that “faith does not remain stationary.” Everyday is a consequence of our stepping off in faith. Therefore, I suppose we could look back at our day and it would tell us a bit about that in which we place our faith. At the same time, we are always free to trust again each and every day…to continue in faith…to leap into what is not yet. When we come together for worship we train ourselves to take another look at our day and everything around us. Through our hymns and through the Meal and the Word, we are challenged to respond to our God who is forever bidding us to come and live a whole new life. I find that worship presses me to look with faithful eyes at a world that is forever changing and then trusting that our God is in, with, and under all the change and all of what will come of it.
Connection: Do not remain in one place…the place you find comfortable for you. Take the step to journey into this day as though our God is laying out a carpet of new life upon which we are invited to walk.
Be present in our day, O Lord. Be present to lift our eyes so that we may be amazed by the glory of this day which you hand to us. Be present and grasp us with the power of your Spirit so that we may engage ourselves with those we meet along the way. Amen.
Faith comes out of awe, out of an awareness that we are exposed to (God’s) presence, out of anxiety to answer the challenge of God, out of an awareness of our being called upon. Religion consists of God’s question and (humanity’s) answer. The way to faith is the way of faith. The way to God is the way of God. Unless God asks the question, all our inquiries are in vain.
The answer lasts a moment, the commitment continues. Unless the awareness of the ineffable mystery of existence becomes a permanent state of mind, all that remains is a commitment without faith. To strengthen our alertness, to refine our appreciation of the mystery is the meaning of worship and observance. For faith does not remain stationary. We must continue to pray, continue to obey to be able to believe and to remain attached to (God’s) presence.
We all need to remember that “faith does not remain stationary.” Everyday is a consequence of our stepping off in faith. Therefore, I suppose we could look back at our day and it would tell us a bit about that in which we place our faith. At the same time, we are always free to trust again each and every day…to continue in faith…to leap into what is not yet. When we come together for worship we train ourselves to take another look at our day and everything around us. Through our hymns and through the Meal and the Word, we are challenged to respond to our God who is forever bidding us to come and live a whole new life. I find that worship presses me to look with faithful eyes at a world that is forever changing and then trusting that our God is in, with, and under all the change and all of what will come of it.
Connection: Do not remain in one place…the place you find comfortable for you. Take the step to journey into this day as though our God is laying out a carpet of new life upon which we are invited to walk.
Be present in our day, O Lord. Be present to lift our eyes so that we may be amazed by the glory of this day which you hand to us. Be present and grasp us with the power of your Spirit so that we may engage ourselves with those we meet along the way. Amen.
Monday, June 2, 2003
Tuesday, June 3, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Our seeking (God) is not only (humanity’s) but also (God’s) concern, and must be considered an exclusively human affair. (God’s) will is involved in our yearnings. All of human history as described in the Bible may be summarized in one phrase: God is in search of (humanity). Faith in God is a response to God’s question…
When Adam and Eve hid from (God’s) presence, the Lord called: Where art thou (Genesis 3:9)? It is a call that goes out again and again. It is a still small echo of a still small voice, not uttered in words, not conveyed in categories of the mind, but ineffable and mysterious, as ineffable and mysterious as the glory that fills the whole world. It is wrapped in silence; concealed and subdued, yet it is as if all things were the frozen echo of the question: Where art thou?
Again, be reminded of such a God as this. Not only can’t we say we are alone (although the feeling of being alone can be intense and very real), we must tell one another that our God is chasing through the garden to find us as we try to hide away. The searching is not a searching in order to punish, it is a searching in order to express love and be in union with God’s children. Do not fear. Do not consider yourself lost…this God of our finds all and promises to rescue us in times of need.
Connection: Prayer may be the best way to send up a flare as God searches around for us so that God’s power and grace may abound for us.
Blessed Creator of All that is, within the events of this day, it comes as a marvelous revelation to know that you long to be with us and to remain at our side. By your presence, we are comforted and encouraged and are able to begin again…even when beginnings seemed impossible for us. Praise be to you. Amen.
Our seeking (God) is not only (humanity’s) but also (God’s) concern, and must be considered an exclusively human affair. (God’s) will is involved in our yearnings. All of human history as described in the Bible may be summarized in one phrase: God is in search of (humanity). Faith in God is a response to God’s question…
When Adam and Eve hid from (God’s) presence, the Lord called: Where art thou (Genesis 3:9)? It is a call that goes out again and again. It is a still small echo of a still small voice, not uttered in words, not conveyed in categories of the mind, but ineffable and mysterious, as ineffable and mysterious as the glory that fills the whole world. It is wrapped in silence; concealed and subdued, yet it is as if all things were the frozen echo of the question: Where art thou?
Again, be reminded of such a God as this. Not only can’t we say we are alone (although the feeling of being alone can be intense and very real), we must tell one another that our God is chasing through the garden to find us as we try to hide away. The searching is not a searching in order to punish, it is a searching in order to express love and be in union with God’s children. Do not fear. Do not consider yourself lost…this God of our finds all and promises to rescue us in times of need.
Connection: Prayer may be the best way to send up a flare as God searches around for us so that God’s power and grace may abound for us.
Blessed Creator of All that is, within the events of this day, it comes as a marvelous revelation to know that you long to be with us and to remain at our side. By your presence, we are comforted and encouraged and are able to begin again…even when beginnings seemed impossible for us. Praise be to you. Amen.
Monday, June 2, 2003
The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
Most theories of religion start out with defining the religious situation as (humanity’s) search for God and maintain the axiom that God is silent, hidden, and unconcerned with (humanity’s) search for (God). Now in adopting that axiom, the answer is given before the question is asked.
To Biblical thinking, the definition is incomplete and the axiom false. The Bible speaks not only of (humanity’s) search for God but also God’s search for (humanity). “Thou dost hunt me like a lion,” exclaimed Job (10:16).
What an important understanding to set down among us. Rather than the stereotypical picture of people trying to find God or work their way to God…God is pursuing us! That is why I so often use the image of God wooing us into relationship with God. In fact, God will do all things – anything – in order to grab us and have us as God’s own children. In a discussion about forgiveness in Sunday school today, we were moved to push ourselves beyond our image of forgiving and what is “enough” forgiveness and begin to see how God forgives everything that has taken place and all that will take place and that God sees us as we will be at the great feast at the end of time…a beloved, guest. God will stop at nothing to bring us home. That is an unbelievable hunt…and yet we say it is the way of our God.
Connection: When will God grab hold of you today…or when will we stop to recognize just how close God is trying to be to us?
Loving Lord, it is by your grace that you pull us into a relationship with you. Even when we know that we are far from you, we turn around to find that you have moved closer and are reaching out to embrace us and treat us as your beloved. Thanks be to you for the gift of life that comes from your touch and your never-ending love for us. Amen.
Most theories of religion start out with defining the religious situation as (humanity’s) search for God and maintain the axiom that God is silent, hidden, and unconcerned with (humanity’s) search for (God). Now in adopting that axiom, the answer is given before the question is asked.
To Biblical thinking, the definition is incomplete and the axiom false. The Bible speaks not only of (humanity’s) search for God but also God’s search for (humanity). “Thou dost hunt me like a lion,” exclaimed Job (10:16).
What an important understanding to set down among us. Rather than the stereotypical picture of people trying to find God or work their way to God…God is pursuing us! That is why I so often use the image of God wooing us into relationship with God. In fact, God will do all things – anything – in order to grab us and have us as God’s own children. In a discussion about forgiveness in Sunday school today, we were moved to push ourselves beyond our image of forgiving and what is “enough” forgiveness and begin to see how God forgives everything that has taken place and all that will take place and that God sees us as we will be at the great feast at the end of time…a beloved, guest. God will stop at nothing to bring us home. That is an unbelievable hunt…and yet we say it is the way of our God.
Connection: When will God grab hold of you today…or when will we stop to recognize just how close God is trying to be to us?
Loving Lord, it is by your grace that you pull us into a relationship with you. Even when we know that we are far from you, we turn around to find that you have moved closer and are reaching out to embrace us and treat us as your beloved. Thanks be to you for the gift of life that comes from your touch and your never-ending love for us. Amen.
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