Check out my new 'World Reflections" Section
Interesting stories and anecdotes that reach into insights I have gained abroad.
Healing Grief, On-line Course, by Terry Douglas.
You are invited to participate in an 8-
week, on-line course, entitled
Healing Grief Page that captures a journey of healing following deep loss.
Meditation – February 17, 2011
Posted on Thursday, February 17th, 2011
Scripture: And (Jesus) asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said to him in reply, “You are the Messiah.” Mark 8:29
Prayer: It’s easy for me to read Peter’s familiar response to the question. Help me to live with a similar response upon my lips.
Response: Yes, you are not taking an exam with one question to answer and turn in. No, your answer is the manifestation of this truth in all you are. In fact, it doesn’t even matter if you find yourself debating with an unbeliever this truth, more important is how you witness in every detail of your life even when the spot-light is not on you.
You see, the Messiah did not with his appearance set up a superior debating or discussion group, nor did he design the special uniforms and vestments worn by the knighted, nor expect the chosen to be self-satisfied and superior. No, he seeks your admission of His truth, declared by Peter, through your love and service, especially when you act quietly, effectively, consciously, deliberately, generously, and courageously. And this service is not confined to the unseen, surely they are vital to the mission, but to those who surround you – friends and family – those you can touch.
For today, instead of allowing your eyes to hurry over this familiar verse, stop, yes stop, and consider the question directed to you – because it is. Now, who do you say Jesus is? And in your answer, please do not rely upon something memorized in the past, or words that would satisfy an orthodox theologian of whatever persuasion. Who is Jesus to you this day?
All for this morning.
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Meditation – February 16, 2011
Posted on Wednesday, February 16th, 2011
Scripture: Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21
Prayer: Let my ears hear.
Response: It’s reassuring, isn’t it to know that your intimacy with the Lord and the Holy Spirit are such that there is no situation encountered that clear guidance, clarity will prevail? Isaiah wrote these words so many years ago in a land that continues to see unrest and upheaval; yet these words take on new life as if they were composed earlier this morning. If you are ever in doubt about the anointed Word, consider how two short lines provide wisdom, guidance, and application to you sitting thousands of miles and years distant to when first composed.
Sometimes the words strike so deeply, it is better to read and reflect upon them alone, so that there is no need defend before others your position, beliefs, or life. Alone, these words reach you as they would if the teacher, mentor, or Master was sitting opposite you, giving you one on one instruction and clarification — and He is.
Yes, a guidance system is imprinted on your heart – though you operate the controls and hold over-ride privileges. It might be worthwhile to think about the times when the guidance provided was discarded or ignored. Nothing like experience to improve your listening, adherence, reform, and commitment.
All for this morning.
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Meditation – February 9, 2011
Posted on Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
Meditation – February 9, 2011
Scripture
When you hide your face, they are lost. When you take away their breath, they perish and return to the dust from which they came. When you send forth your breath, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. Psalms 104:29-30
Prayer
My attention is caught by events in Egypt and the words of the psalmist: you renew the face of the earth. Help me to gain perspective in your presence as I view the world.
Response
It is through your actions, especially in prayer, that the renewal and transformation takes place and becomes evident despite the turmoil that seems to engulf the world. In prayer you can earn a place at the barricades of those who seek to express openly and at great risk their deep longing for free expression, as more powerful forces would squelch freedom’s declaration.
There is no golden age in which to return but the present age to renew, refresh, transform from the anger and frustration that permeates society to one of reverence and participation. Feel God’s breath in service, by sharing the poverty of hope in the homeless and unemployed, in each encounter of every day with those you meet of whatever station in life.
Renewing the face of the earth begins today as you witness and pass along the gift of the Spirit generously and with no thought of recompense. See if you can detect the shift that results throughout the day from your activity, recalling examples later in the quiet of the evening. While you are still standing, so to speak, make a difference.
All for this morning.
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God’s Moment
Posted on Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
“God Moment”.
It’s a God moment
When absolutely
Inexplicable tragedy
Strikes without warning,
A clarion sounding
God’s presence
So abrupt as to give us
Pause in fright fear.
Wonder why now,
We ask or why me
Again and then again,
Is there no relief?
On knees we groan,
No words emit,
Eyes drenched
In endless flow.
How to be hopeful,
How to fathom
This grief mystery
That soul empties me;
Where has laughter,
Children’s innocence,
Family warmth fled,
But Into cold despair.
Who is this God
That torments me,
His sorrow overwhelms me
Beyond my strength?
“Then the Lord answered Job
Out of the storm – he said
Where were you when
I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me if you understand,
Who marked off its dimensions?
Surely you know—who stretched
A measuring line across it?
On what were it’s footings set or
Who laid its cornerstone –
While the morning stars sang together
And all the angels shouted for joy?
Job 38:1 & 4-7
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Eight Questions
Posted on Friday, August 13th, 2010
What is happening to our nation where everyone has answers, but few have questions?
Where talking heads preach, politicians agitate, and religious leaders are befuddled?
Where people rage in fear as they chase shadows?
Where strength is measured in sales and wealth — not character and courage?
Where listening is a forgotten art and interruption routine?
Where curiosity is overwhelmed by ignorance?
Where welcome was once extended boldly to the beleaguered?
Where thanks were offered in community solemnly for our blessings and the liberty earned, shared and tested?
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