"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 3:18-21
18I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.
1) "...the power to comprehend;" "...the breadth and length and height and depth;" "..the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge;" "...filled with all the fullness;" "...abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine;"
2) Paul uses small words to describe (inasmuch as it can be) the vastness of the love of Christ "the breadth and length and height and depth... that surpasses knowledge... all the fullness of God." How often do we get so focused on the little part that is right before us and part of our immediate experience, mistaking that little expression for the whole. The WHOLE. THE WHOLE. And do we remember that it is God's power working in us that "is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask of imagine"? or do we get caught up once again on our own limitation? our own egos? our own way of thinking? thinking it is us accomplishing, or trying to accomplish what cannot be done? What does "comprehend" mean? It strikes me as an act of the intellect, but that would not be consistent with this context. "Comprehension" is more comprehensive that an intellectual act. It is experiential, maybe prior to understanding. Comprehension maybe brushes against the cloud of "unknowing," "that surpasses knowledge."
3) What is the invitation in all this? To do what I can and let go of the rest. To let God accomplish more than I can (or want to) accomplish.
"Holy one, help me let go of knowledge and comprehend the vastness of your love that surpasses knowledge."
Breathprayer: "Love... Surpasses Knowledge."
Tuesday 20 June 2017
Monday 19 June 2017
"Glory... Grounded in Love."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, kindness, empathy, compassion, and gentleness of spirit. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 3:14-17
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,* 15from whom every family* in heaven and on earth takes its name. 16I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, 17and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love.
1) "...every family;" "...the riches of his glory;" "...inner being;" "...that Christ may dwell in your hearts;" "...rooted and grounded in love."
2) I love the image of "being rooted and grounded in love." I wonder if we remember on a daily basis as we move from one task to another that this is what we are supposed to be hosting, "being rooted and grounded in love." Paul makes a universalizing statement in this prayer: "from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name." There are no conditions set on that claim. We all derive from the same source, that makes us all kindred (in Paul's case, he's referring to Gentile and Jew). I find myself wondering is it at all possible that God wouldn't want us "strengthened in your inner being"? Of course not. Paul asks for something God wants. God wants us strengthened in our inner being. What are the obstacles that keep me from being ground in love? hmm... what are the obstacles to feeling grounded in love? could it be possible to be grounded in love, yet not feel the love? What would help feel that grounding in love?
3) What is the invitation in all this? To feel the love. To breathe deeply and feel my body ground in the earth, getting heavier with each exhale and imagine love weighing down, grounding in the earth.
"Holy One, strengthen us in our inner being that Christ may dwell in our hearts, rooting and grounding us in love."
Breathprayer: "Glory... grounded in love."
Ephesians 3:14-17
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,* 15from whom every family* in heaven and on earth takes its name. 16I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, 17and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love.
1) "...every family;" "...the riches of his glory;" "...inner being;" "...that Christ may dwell in your hearts;" "...rooted and grounded in love."
2) I love the image of "being rooted and grounded in love." I wonder if we remember on a daily basis as we move from one task to another that this is what we are supposed to be hosting, "being rooted and grounded in love." Paul makes a universalizing statement in this prayer: "from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name." There are no conditions set on that claim. We all derive from the same source, that makes us all kindred (in Paul's case, he's referring to Gentile and Jew). I find myself wondering is it at all possible that God wouldn't want us "strengthened in your inner being"? Of course not. Paul asks for something God wants. God wants us strengthened in our inner being. What are the obstacles that keep me from being ground in love? hmm... what are the obstacles to feeling grounded in love? could it be possible to be grounded in love, yet not feel the love? What would help feel that grounding in love?
3) What is the invitation in all this? To feel the love. To breathe deeply and feel my body ground in the earth, getting heavier with each exhale and imagine love weighing down, grounding in the earth.
"Holy One, strengthen us in our inner being that Christ may dwell in our hearts, rooting and grounding us in love."
Breathprayer: "Glory... grounded in love."
Saturday 17 June 2017
"The Mystery Hidden... the Wisdom of God."
"I ask for the grace to prayer and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 3:7-13
7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of his power. 8Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9and to make everyone see* what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in* God who created all things; 10so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.* 13I pray therefore that you* may not lose heart over my sufferings for you; they are your glory.
1) "...the gift of God's grace;" "...the boundless riches of Christ;" "...the mystery hidden for ages;" "...the wisdom of God;" "... rich variety;" "...eternal purpose;" "...they are your glory;"
2) I fear we have cheapened the riches, and culled the variety of the wisdom of God in the traditions that the church has passed on. Paul waxes poetic whenever he talks about "the boundless riches of Christ" and "the eternal purpose" of God and what gets handed on is black and white, right and wrong, do this, don't do that, believe this or go to hell, though shalt not... none of that sounds like "boundless riches," or "rich variety," let alone "mystery" or "wisdom." What Paul describes sounds like something I might want to participate in. And to remember that he writes all this from prison... granted, a relatively comfortable house arrest, rather than an institution of walls, gates, locks and surveillance... he has ample access to parchment and pen... but his life is threatened because of what he feels compelled to share and yet he continues to share it and takes joy in sharing them message. What if what Paul is describing really is as he describes it? What is life in loving community compared to the violent, competitive, precarious culture of first century Rome? What is life in loving community compared to the violent, competitive, consumptive culture of today? What is life like when you look into the eyes of a neighbour and see a brother/sister/lover made in the same image and likeness of God as you, compared to seeing an alien, a stranger, an enemy? "boundless riches of Christ... the wisdom of God in its rich variety... they are your glory."
3) What is the invitation I all this? To witness the boundless riches of Christ in my neighbours, my friends, my lovers.
"Holy One, reveal to us your eternal purpose."
Breathprayer: "The mystery hidden... the wisdom of God."
Ephesians 3:7-13
7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of his power. 8Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9and to make everyone see* what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in* God who created all things; 10so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.* 13I pray therefore that you* may not lose heart over my sufferings for you; they are your glory.
1) "...the gift of God's grace;" "...the boundless riches of Christ;" "...the mystery hidden for ages;" "...the wisdom of God;" "... rich variety;" "...eternal purpose;" "...they are your glory;"
2) I fear we have cheapened the riches, and culled the variety of the wisdom of God in the traditions that the church has passed on. Paul waxes poetic whenever he talks about "the boundless riches of Christ" and "the eternal purpose" of God and what gets handed on is black and white, right and wrong, do this, don't do that, believe this or go to hell, though shalt not... none of that sounds like "boundless riches," or "rich variety," let alone "mystery" or "wisdom." What Paul describes sounds like something I might want to participate in. And to remember that he writes all this from prison... granted, a relatively comfortable house arrest, rather than an institution of walls, gates, locks and surveillance... he has ample access to parchment and pen... but his life is threatened because of what he feels compelled to share and yet he continues to share it and takes joy in sharing them message. What if what Paul is describing really is as he describes it? What is life in loving community compared to the violent, competitive, precarious culture of first century Rome? What is life in loving community compared to the violent, competitive, consumptive culture of today? What is life like when you look into the eyes of a neighbour and see a brother/sister/lover made in the same image and likeness of God as you, compared to seeing an alien, a stranger, an enemy? "boundless riches of Christ... the wisdom of God in its rich variety... they are your glory."
3) What is the invitation I all this? To witness the boundless riches of Christ in my neighbours, my friends, my lovers.
"Holy One, reveal to us your eternal purpose."
Breathprayer: "The mystery hidden... the wisdom of God."
Friday 16 June 2017
"Christ Jesus... the Mystery."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 3:1-6
3This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for* Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5In former generations this mystery* was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6that is, the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
1) "...sharers in the promise;" "...prisoner for Christ Jesus;" "...you Gentiles;" "...God's grace;" "...the mystery;" "...the mystery of Christ;" "...in former generations this mystery was not made known;" "...by the Spirit;" "...the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs;"
2) If only we had maintained the revelation of "fellow-heirs." Paul's point was that the promise God had made to Israel, through Christ was now available to everyone. God did not replace the Israelites with the Gentiles, but extended the promise to be all inclusive. I feel a desire to go back to read what Paul, "wrote above in a few words." As the liturgy states, "Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again." But Paul said more than that. We too have died to how we were and have been raised with Christ. Is it possible that we can die to 2,000 years of trespass? of violence between pagans and Christians? Christians and Jews? Christians and indigenous peoples? Christians and Muslims? Maybe if Christians actually followed the teachings of Jesus and Paul. Maybe if we genuinely sought humility, justice and kindness instead of being right. Mystery is right. A mystery that anyone might be willing to die to their own way of thinking and being so that something new could be born. Paul has been arrested because he is trying to serve the very people he once persecuted.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Who do I currently persecute? How can I serve them instead?
"Holy One, continue to reveal your mystery to us, until we get it, and make peace."
Breathprayer: "Christ Jesus... the mystery."
Ephesians 3:1-6
3This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for* Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5In former generations this mystery* was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6that is, the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
1) "...sharers in the promise;" "...prisoner for Christ Jesus;" "...you Gentiles;" "...God's grace;" "...the mystery;" "...the mystery of Christ;" "...in former generations this mystery was not made known;" "...by the Spirit;" "...the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs;"
2) If only we had maintained the revelation of "fellow-heirs." Paul's point was that the promise God had made to Israel, through Christ was now available to everyone. God did not replace the Israelites with the Gentiles, but extended the promise to be all inclusive. I feel a desire to go back to read what Paul, "wrote above in a few words." As the liturgy states, "Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again." But Paul said more than that. We too have died to how we were and have been raised with Christ. Is it possible that we can die to 2,000 years of trespass? of violence between pagans and Christians? Christians and Jews? Christians and indigenous peoples? Christians and Muslims? Maybe if Christians actually followed the teachings of Jesus and Paul. Maybe if we genuinely sought humility, justice and kindness instead of being right. Mystery is right. A mystery that anyone might be willing to die to their own way of thinking and being so that something new could be born. Paul has been arrested because he is trying to serve the very people he once persecuted.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Who do I currently persecute? How can I serve them instead?
"Holy One, continue to reveal your mystery to us, until we get it, and make peace."
Breathprayer: "Christ Jesus... the mystery."
Thursday 15 June 2017
"Citizens... with the Saints."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 2:17-22
17So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone.* 21In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22in whom you also are built together spiritually* into a dwelling-place for God.
1) "...proclaimed peace;" "...in one Spirit;" "...no longer strangers and aliens;" "...citizens with the saints;" "...members of the household;" "...the cornerstone;" "...a holy temple in the Lord;" "...built together spiritually into a dwelling-place for God;" "
2) I guess it is somewhat reassuring to realized that Paul, 2,000 years ago was struggling constantly to bring peace to the communities that were constantly experiencing conflict within themselves. Some things never change. I do appreciate the poetry of his prose, one biblical reference layered upon another seamlessly. "Citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God." Does it feel like we are citizens with the saints and members of the household of God? Every day? All day? Some days, for sure. But some days... less so. It is a tall calling to be "citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God." I wonder if the day to day tasks might be lighter if we took this calling seriously, every day, reminding ourselves that we are not earning our way into citizenship, but that we are already citizens and the work is what citizens do, we serve.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Maybe I'm making a few posters for around the office and church, "You are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God."
"Holy One, come and proclaim your peace among us."
Breathprayer: "Citizens... with the saints."
Ephesians 2:17-22
17So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone.* 21In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22in whom you also are built together spiritually* into a dwelling-place for God.
1) "...proclaimed peace;" "...in one Spirit;" "...no longer strangers and aliens;" "...citizens with the saints;" "...members of the household;" "...the cornerstone;" "...a holy temple in the Lord;" "...built together spiritually into a dwelling-place for God;" "
2) I guess it is somewhat reassuring to realized that Paul, 2,000 years ago was struggling constantly to bring peace to the communities that were constantly experiencing conflict within themselves. Some things never change. I do appreciate the poetry of his prose, one biblical reference layered upon another seamlessly. "Citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God." Does it feel like we are citizens with the saints and members of the household of God? Every day? All day? Some days, for sure. But some days... less so. It is a tall calling to be "citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God." I wonder if the day to day tasks might be lighter if we took this calling seriously, every day, reminding ourselves that we are not earning our way into citizenship, but that we are already citizens and the work is what citizens do, we serve.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Maybe I'm making a few posters for around the office and church, "You are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God."
"Holy One, come and proclaim your peace among us."
Breathprayer: "Citizens... with the saints."
Wednesday 14 June 2017
"Christ... Is Our Peace."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 2:14-16
14For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. 15He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, so that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16and might reconcile both groups to God in one body* through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it.*
1) "...he is our peace;" "...broken down... the hostility between us;" "...one new humanity;" "...reconcile both groups to God in one body;" "...putting to death that hostility;" "
2) Do I really want an end to that hostility? hmm... there is a divide within myself over whether or not I want that hostility to really end. One part says, "Yes, I have no more energy for that hostility, I want it over, I want to move on, and it is what God calls me to." And the other part says, "But I'm right and he's a jerk! Again and again, he's a jerk. And he just won't stop. I'm right! I'm right! I'm right!" The first part says, "I don't care if I'm right or he's right, or if we are both right or neither of us are right. I'm too tired for the hostility to go on. It is time for peace." The second part says, "But what about when he's a jerk again!" A third part (most like likely something like "self-in-presence") observes that I am big enough to hold the difference of opinion between these two parts. There is lots of space in me... I'm made in the image and likeness of God (so is he). There's room for hostility; there's room for peace. Knowing/trusting that feels more peaceful. He's going to keep doing what he's doing. I can only choose not to react.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To do nothing. To breath into the open spaces. To let Christ stand between us. To choose peace.
"Holy One."
Breathprayer: "Christ... is our peace."
Ephesians 2:14-16
14For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. 15He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, so that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16and might reconcile both groups to God in one body* through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it.*
1) "...he is our peace;" "...broken down... the hostility between us;" "...one new humanity;" "...reconcile both groups to God in one body;" "...putting to death that hostility;" "
2) Do I really want an end to that hostility? hmm... there is a divide within myself over whether or not I want that hostility to really end. One part says, "Yes, I have no more energy for that hostility, I want it over, I want to move on, and it is what God calls me to." And the other part says, "But I'm right and he's a jerk! Again and again, he's a jerk. And he just won't stop. I'm right! I'm right! I'm right!" The first part says, "I don't care if I'm right or he's right, or if we are both right or neither of us are right. I'm too tired for the hostility to go on. It is time for peace." The second part says, "But what about when he's a jerk again!" A third part (most like likely something like "self-in-presence") observes that I am big enough to hold the difference of opinion between these two parts. There is lots of space in me... I'm made in the image and likeness of God (so is he). There's room for hostility; there's room for peace. Knowing/trusting that feels more peaceful. He's going to keep doing what he's doing. I can only choose not to react.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To do nothing. To breath into the open spaces. To let Christ stand between us. To choose peace.
"Holy One."
Breathprayer: "Christ... is our peace."
Tuesday 13 June 2017
"Commonwealth... of Promise."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, discouragement, cynicism, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 2:11-13
11 So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth,* called ‘the uncircumcision’ by those who are called ‘the circumcision’—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— 12remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
1) "...aliens from the commonwealth of Israel;" "...strangers to the covenants of promise;" "...without God in the world;" "...But now;" "...brought near by the blood of Christ;" "...remember;" "...at one time;" "...remember that at one time;" "...remember that you were at that time;" "...aliens from the commonwealth... strangers to the covenants;" "...no hope;"
2) I love the poetry of Paul's expression, the way he layers statements to emphasis his point. It can be so easy to forget that things have not always been the way they currently are. In fact, its easy to forget that things aren't currently the way they seem. Paul is calling on the Gentiles for some humility. It seems someone may have been proclaiming that these "Gentile Christians" or "uncircumcised Christians" are God's new favorites, and God has abandoned the Jews, or those who have been "circumcised." "I'm a better Christian that you" is neither a new game, nor one that we've grown out of. It is a thing of the "flesh" or human action that has us creating hierarchies of who's better than anyone else. Paul asserts that by the blood of Christ, we all become the same. I'm usually not fond of emphasizing "the blood and body of Christ," I think folks tend to take it way too literally. But when congregation members complain that the bread is gluten free this week, I like to remind them that Jesus died, alone, an excruciating, shameful death on a cross, and they are complaining about bread that isn't to their liking. It's so easy to think we are all that, while grumbling about trivialities.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To consciously practice some humility and gratitude.
"Holy One, thank you for the commonwealth of hope and promise."
Breathprayer: "Commonwealth... of promise."
Ephesians 2:11-13
11 So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth,* called ‘the uncircumcision’ by those who are called ‘the circumcision’—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— 12remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
1) "...aliens from the commonwealth of Israel;" "...strangers to the covenants of promise;" "...without God in the world;" "...But now;" "...brought near by the blood of Christ;" "...remember;" "...at one time;" "...remember that at one time;" "...remember that you were at that time;" "...aliens from the commonwealth... strangers to the covenants;" "...no hope;"
2) I love the poetry of Paul's expression, the way he layers statements to emphasis his point. It can be so easy to forget that things have not always been the way they currently are. In fact, its easy to forget that things aren't currently the way they seem. Paul is calling on the Gentiles for some humility. It seems someone may have been proclaiming that these "Gentile Christians" or "uncircumcised Christians" are God's new favorites, and God has abandoned the Jews, or those who have been "circumcised." "I'm a better Christian that you" is neither a new game, nor one that we've grown out of. It is a thing of the "flesh" or human action that has us creating hierarchies of who's better than anyone else. Paul asserts that by the blood of Christ, we all become the same. I'm usually not fond of emphasizing "the blood and body of Christ," I think folks tend to take it way too literally. But when congregation members complain that the bread is gluten free this week, I like to remind them that Jesus died, alone, an excruciating, shameful death on a cross, and they are complaining about bread that isn't to their liking. It's so easy to think we are all that, while grumbling about trivialities.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To consciously practice some humility and gratitude.
"Holy One, thank you for the commonwealth of hope and promise."
Breathprayer: "Commonwealth... of promise."
Monday 12 June 2017
"Created in Christ... for Good Works."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness and walking humbly."
Ephesians 2:4-10
4But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us 5even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ*—by grace you have been saved— 6and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. 8For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— 9not the result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.
1) "...dead through our trespasses;" "...alive together with Christ;" "...by grace you have been saved;" "...raised us up with him;" "...seated us with him in the heavenly paces in Christ Jesus;" "...immeasurable riches of his grace;" "...by grace you have been saved trough faith;" "...this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God;" "...not the result of works, so that no one may boast;" "...we are what he as made us;" "...created in Christ Jesus for good works;"
2) perhaps I should have broken this passage in two, but I didn't want to end with "by grace you have been saved," I wanted to get to "For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works." Perhaps works righteousness is in my veins? I work and work and work. For no less than 19 years, I've worked every method at my disposal: 12 step program, focusing, spiritual direction, counseling, therapy, "the Work," lectio divina, centering prayer, Ingatian prayer, silent retreats, yoga, erotic tantric massage, heart circles, group therapy, men's spiritual retreats, transcendental meditation, journaling, "The Artist's Way," and prayer, prayer, and more prayer. I've dabbled in some techniques and others have become long time faithful companions. I've made the best use I can of every tool that has been offered to deepen my healing, integration, and growth. All that work. But it isn't the work that brings the growth. "It is the gift of God - not the result of works, so that no one may boast." So the thought comes, "Why bother doing all that work!?! 19 years of consciousness building down the tubes, because grace is a free gift." But then there is the next line, "For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works." I do the work, because that is what we are made for. Given the heartache I've been experiencing over my "constant companions" the last several weeks, this feels hopeful.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Praise God, by grace we have been saved.
Breathprayer: "Created in Christ... for good works."
Ephesians 2:4-10
4But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us 5even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ*—by grace you have been saved— 6and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. 8For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— 9not the result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.
1) "...dead through our trespasses;" "...alive together with Christ;" "...by grace you have been saved;" "...raised us up with him;" "...seated us with him in the heavenly paces in Christ Jesus;" "...immeasurable riches of his grace;" "...by grace you have been saved trough faith;" "...this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God;" "...not the result of works, so that no one may boast;" "...we are what he as made us;" "...created in Christ Jesus for good works;"
2) perhaps I should have broken this passage in two, but I didn't want to end with "by grace you have been saved," I wanted to get to "For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works." Perhaps works righteousness is in my veins? I work and work and work. For no less than 19 years, I've worked every method at my disposal: 12 step program, focusing, spiritual direction, counseling, therapy, "the Work," lectio divina, centering prayer, Ingatian prayer, silent retreats, yoga, erotic tantric massage, heart circles, group therapy, men's spiritual retreats, transcendental meditation, journaling, "The Artist's Way," and prayer, prayer, and more prayer. I've dabbled in some techniques and others have become long time faithful companions. I've made the best use I can of every tool that has been offered to deepen my healing, integration, and growth. All that work. But it isn't the work that brings the growth. "It is the gift of God - not the result of works, so that no one may boast." So the thought comes, "Why bother doing all that work!?! 19 years of consciousness building down the tubes, because grace is a free gift." But then there is the next line, "For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works." I do the work, because that is what we are made for. Given the heartache I've been experiencing over my "constant companions" the last several weeks, this feels hopeful.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Praise God, by grace we have been saved.
Breathprayer: "Created in Christ... for good works."
Sunday 11 June 2017
"Once..."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 2:1-3
2You were dead through the trespasses and sins 2in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. 3All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else.
1) "...children of wrath;" "...you were dead;" "...the course of this world;" "...those who are disobedient;" "...the passions of our flesh;" "...the desires of flesh and senses;" "...like every one else."
2) actually, today, to be "like everyone else" means to be numb, asleep, striving for what media and advertising campaigns tell us to want. It's sad that "flesh" has become identified with "sex" in so much of the tradition. I don't see that in Paul at all. "Flesh" means without consideration, compulsive, autonomic, mindlessness. Suddenly, the passage comes alive and I can see myself in it. Even when I think I am fully awake, I am still asleep, still acting and reacting following the course of this world. More concerned for myself that for my neighbour or the whole. Compulsively reacting to situations out of long engrained habit rather than considering my responses. Thinking first how someone has slighted me in their thoughts or words, rather than wondering what their needs are. Judging others by their actions while expecting others to judge me by my intent. Children of wrath. We are given the option freely to be in the world otherwise. I wrestle with the notion of "obedience/disobedience." But it requires a conscious discipline to change long engrained habits, obedience to a different way of being.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Paul, "Paul" is speaking in the past tense... "Once..." like the 12 Steps... The change has already taken place. Live into the change.
"Holy One, help me follow your course."
Breathprayer: "Once..."
Ephesians 2:1-3
2You were dead through the trespasses and sins 2in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. 3All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else.
1) "...children of wrath;" "...you were dead;" "...the course of this world;" "...those who are disobedient;" "...the passions of our flesh;" "...the desires of flesh and senses;" "...like every one else."
2) actually, today, to be "like everyone else" means to be numb, asleep, striving for what media and advertising campaigns tell us to want. It's sad that "flesh" has become identified with "sex" in so much of the tradition. I don't see that in Paul at all. "Flesh" means without consideration, compulsive, autonomic, mindlessness. Suddenly, the passage comes alive and I can see myself in it. Even when I think I am fully awake, I am still asleep, still acting and reacting following the course of this world. More concerned for myself that for my neighbour or the whole. Compulsively reacting to situations out of long engrained habit rather than considering my responses. Thinking first how someone has slighted me in their thoughts or words, rather than wondering what their needs are. Judging others by their actions while expecting others to judge me by my intent. Children of wrath. We are given the option freely to be in the world otherwise. I wrestle with the notion of "obedience/disobedience." But it requires a conscious discipline to change long engrained habits, obedience to a different way of being.
3) What is the invitation in all this? Paul, "Paul" is speaking in the past tense... "Once..." like the 12 Steps... The change has already taken place. Live into the change.
"Holy One, help me follow your course."
Breathprayer: "Once..."
Saturday 10 June 2017
"All in All..."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 1:20-23
20God* put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. 22And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, 23which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
1) "...all in all;" "...above every name that is named;" "...in this age but also in the age to come;" "...who fills all in all."
2) Paul at his most eloquent. This passage makes me think of when I used to stargaze on the prairies. I had a really nice telescope and could see the most amazing things. It constantly filled me with a sense of awe and wonder to look up into the night sky. No matter what kind of mess we were making down here on earth, there was a night sky full of bodies thousands and millions and billions of light years away that we miserable humans couldn't touch, "in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion." I found that so comforting, especially when listening to reports of Climate Change (though we were still mistakenly calling it Global Warming back then), and Climate Change denial was a thing but not yet named as such. The Cosmic Christ will continue to reign, "not only in this age but also in the age to come," no matter what we do. But if we want a genuine part in that reign, the cost of discipleship is "obedience." I am not Lord of the Universe. Obedience to the One who is, means accepting what I can't change, changing what I can, and having the wisdom to know the difference.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To find comfort in the Cosmic Christ, to not be discouraged by the atrocity of humanity and trust that my "obedience" with the "obedience of others" is more than enough.
"Holy One, you are my all in all."
Breathprayer: "All in All..."
Ephesians 1:20-23
20God* put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. 22And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, 23which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
1) "...all in all;" "...above every name that is named;" "...in this age but also in the age to come;" "...who fills all in all."
2) Paul at his most eloquent. This passage makes me think of when I used to stargaze on the prairies. I had a really nice telescope and could see the most amazing things. It constantly filled me with a sense of awe and wonder to look up into the night sky. No matter what kind of mess we were making down here on earth, there was a night sky full of bodies thousands and millions and billions of light years away that we miserable humans couldn't touch, "in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion." I found that so comforting, especially when listening to reports of Climate Change (though we were still mistakenly calling it Global Warming back then), and Climate Change denial was a thing but not yet named as such. The Cosmic Christ will continue to reign, "not only in this age but also in the age to come," no matter what we do. But if we want a genuine part in that reign, the cost of discipleship is "obedience." I am not Lord of the Universe. Obedience to the One who is, means accepting what I can't change, changing what I can, and having the wisdom to know the difference.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To find comfort in the Cosmic Christ, to not be discouraged by the atrocity of humanity and trust that my "obedience" with the "obedience of others" is more than enough.
"Holy One, you are my all in all."
Breathprayer: "All in All..."
Friday 9 June 2017
"Wisdom... and Revelation"
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, compassion, empathy, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 1:15-19
15 I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love* towards all the saints, and for this reason 16I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. 17I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, 18so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, 19and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.
1) "...I do not cease to give thanks;" "...I remember you in my prayers;" "...a spirit of wisdom and revelation;" "...the eyes of your heart enlightened;" "immeasurable greatness;" "...his great power;" "...so that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you;" "what are the riches of his glorious inheritance;" "...the hope...the riches of his glorious inheritance...immeasurable greatness of his power;"
2) A spirit of wisdom and revelation would be nice. I have had moments I consider to have been glimpses of "the hope to which he has called," "the riches of his glorious inheritance," and "the immeasurable greatness of his power." Moments when I was completely satisfied and comforted. They've never lasted long in real time, but they had a hold on me. They come at the most unexpected times, sometimes when I'm on retreat, but sometimes when I'm riding the bus, or walking along the river. Once when I was laughing with friends. Moments to hold on to and remember. Moments that could get me through a lot of worse moments. Moments that are easy to lose track of and forget when I need to remember them most! "Immeasurable greatness."
3) What is the invitation in all this? to remember, especially in the darker moments, that there have been moments of "wisdom and revelation," and to be nourished by them.
"Holy One, thank you."
Breathprayer: "Wisdom... and revelation."
Thursday 8 June 2017
"Promised... to the praise of his glory."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, compassion, empathy, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 1:11-14
11In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, 12so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; 14this is the pledge of our inheritance towards redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory.
1) "...set our hope on Christ;" "...live for the praise of his glory;" "...marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit;" "...inheritance... as God's own people;" "...praise of his glory;" "...obtained an inheritance;" "...destined;" "...accomplishes all things according to his counsel;" "...hope on Christ;"
2) Is our hope set on Christ? Or is it set on this action plan, or that fundraiser, or this prescription, or that job, or this diet, or this exercise program, or that minister, or this psychotherapeutic method, or that 12 step program, or this support group, or this building development, or... or... or... It is so easy to put my hope in some work, rather than remember that hope is in Christ Jesus. The work is necessary so we do it. But the work may or may not be effective. So we do the most effective work we can. And that requires constant discernment and assessment. But hope. Hope is set on Christ. We set our hope on Christ, then work our program, our action plan, our fundraiser...
3) What is the invitation in all this? In light of my "constant companions," I need to continue to discern and work towards amends and reconciliation, but also, remember that hope is set on Christ Jesus, not my work. That's a good thing. What is impossible for the rest of us, is possible for Christ.
"Holy One, keep my hope set on you. that I might live for the praise of your glory."
Breathprayer: "Promised... to the praise of his glory."
Wednesday 7 June 2017
"Riches... Lavished on Us."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully, in service to the one that calls us out of chaos into order, and out of order into chaos. I ask for patience, tolerance, compassion, empathy, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly.
Ephesians 1:5-10
5He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace 8that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight 9he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
1) "...the good pleasure of his will;" "...glorious grace;" "...freely bestowed;" "...the riches of his grace;" "...that he lavished on us;" "...all wisdom and insight;" "...a plan for the fullness of time;" "...to gather up al things in him, things in heaven and things on earth;" "...destined us for adoption as his children;"
2) It was a beautiful morning as I ran this morning. I ran with my "constant companions" and it occurred to me that I am not feeling "more shame than any mortal could possibly forebear" that I've experienced in the past when aware of my companions. It seems that a prayer around tolerance, and patience with those companions has been answered. I can't say there's empathy or compassion yet, but tolerance is an improvement. Here in Ephesians 1, Paul speaks as one who has come to the end, or at least has tremendous hope that it is possible, even inevitable, that everyone "destined... for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ" will be free of the fetters "of our trespasses." Paul is full of confident praise. "With all wisdom and insight [God] has made known to [Paul and his communities] the mystery of [God's] will, according to [God's] good pleasure that [God] set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time to gather up all things in [God], things in heaven and things on earth." At any rate, our "constant companions" are not an obstacle to God's love. God's love that can still be witnessed in community and intimate relationships. Thanks to all God's wisdom and insight, our "constant companions" do not need to impede in right relationships.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To be grateful for prayers answered, even if I didn't know what I was asking for. To continue to trust this journey. To acknowledge that it is simply the way it is that when we seek deeper self-knowing through Christ, we are going to come to discover things we don't like. Anything else, would not be following Christ.
"Holy One, thank you for wisdom and insight."
Breathprayer: "Riches... lavished on us."
Ephesians 1:5-10
5He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace 8that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight 9he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
1) "...the good pleasure of his will;" "...glorious grace;" "...freely bestowed;" "...the riches of his grace;" "...that he lavished on us;" "...all wisdom and insight;" "...a plan for the fullness of time;" "...to gather up al things in him, things in heaven and things on earth;" "...destined us for adoption as his children;"
2) It was a beautiful morning as I ran this morning. I ran with my "constant companions" and it occurred to me that I am not feeling "more shame than any mortal could possibly forebear" that I've experienced in the past when aware of my companions. It seems that a prayer around tolerance, and patience with those companions has been answered. I can't say there's empathy or compassion yet, but tolerance is an improvement. Here in Ephesians 1, Paul speaks as one who has come to the end, or at least has tremendous hope that it is possible, even inevitable, that everyone "destined... for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ" will be free of the fetters "of our trespasses." Paul is full of confident praise. "With all wisdom and insight [God] has made known to [Paul and his communities] the mystery of [God's] will, according to [God's] good pleasure that [God] set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time to gather up all things in [God], things in heaven and things on earth." At any rate, our "constant companions" are not an obstacle to God's love. God's love that can still be witnessed in community and intimate relationships. Thanks to all God's wisdom and insight, our "constant companions" do not need to impede in right relationships.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To be grateful for prayers answered, even if I didn't know what I was asking for. To continue to trust this journey. To acknowledge that it is simply the way it is that when we seek deeper self-knowing through Christ, we are going to come to discover things we don't like. Anything else, would not be following Christ.
"Holy One, thank you for wisdom and insight."
Breathprayer: "Riches... lavished on us."
Tuesday 6 June 2017
"Grace... and Peace."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate on behalf of my congregation faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Ephesians 1:1-4
1Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To the saints who are in Ephesus and are faithful* in Christ Jesus:
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4just as he chose us in Christ* before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love.
1) "...by the will of God;" "...faithful in Christ Jesus;" "...grace to you;" "...Blessed be the God;" "...who has blessed;" "...every spiritual blessings;" "...chose us;" "...before the foundation of the world;" "...holy and blameless before him in love."
2) my first observation this morning is of the pinch of shame I feel as I ask for what I need, knowing I still need to ask. Anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance are constant companions; constantly causing me pain, and shame; constantly revealing themselves when I least want them around; constantly hanging me on a cross of my own making. Recently, cynicism and discouragement in particular. I'm reminded again and again that one meets one's destiny on the very path one takes to avoid it. And so I continue to hold my shadow traits up in prayer. "Holy and blameless" is definitely part of the Parousia, and not the here and now. In this life, I will not be holy and blameless, but need to work with what I have been given. "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do," Christ says of the soldiers who nailed him to the cross. But I feel such resistance to "forgiving" those parts of me that hang me on a cross on a daily basis. And what's more, I'm inclined to hang other people on the cross who also reveal those traits. It's an ever lasting cycle of condemnation. "Grace and peace," "Grace and peace," "Grace and peace."
3) What is the invitation in all this? To let God be God. To acknowledge the cynicism and discouragement, but not condemn them. To let the sadness that invokes simply be. And to hold it all up in silent prayer.
Breathprayer: "Grace... and peace."
Ephesians 1:1-4
1Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To the saints who are in Ephesus and are faithful* in Christ Jesus:
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4just as he chose us in Christ* before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love.
1) "...by the will of God;" "...faithful in Christ Jesus;" "...grace to you;" "...Blessed be the God;" "...who has blessed;" "...every spiritual blessings;" "...chose us;" "...before the foundation of the world;" "...holy and blameless before him in love."
2) my first observation this morning is of the pinch of shame I feel as I ask for what I need, knowing I still need to ask. Anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance are constant companions; constantly causing me pain, and shame; constantly revealing themselves when I least want them around; constantly hanging me on a cross of my own making. Recently, cynicism and discouragement in particular. I'm reminded again and again that one meets one's destiny on the very path one takes to avoid it. And so I continue to hold my shadow traits up in prayer. "Holy and blameless" is definitely part of the Parousia, and not the here and now. In this life, I will not be holy and blameless, but need to work with what I have been given. "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do," Christ says of the soldiers who nailed him to the cross. But I feel such resistance to "forgiving" those parts of me that hang me on a cross on a daily basis. And what's more, I'm inclined to hang other people on the cross who also reveal those traits. It's an ever lasting cycle of condemnation. "Grace and peace," "Grace and peace," "Grace and peace."
3) What is the invitation in all this? To let God be God. To acknowledge the cynicism and discouragement, but not condemn them. To let the sadness that invokes simply be. And to hold it all up in silent prayer.
Breathprayer: "Grace... and peace."
Monday 5 June 2017
"...My Cup Overflows."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Psalm 23:4-6
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,*
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely* goodness and mercy* shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
my whole life long.*
1) "...you are with me;" "...comfort me;" "...in the presence of my enemies;" "...my cup overflows;" "...all the days of my life;" "
2) My first thought is that I wish I bore the "presence of my enemies" more gracefully. The darkest valley doesn't bother me too much, but people who openly wish me ill will are hard to be around. And, of course, everyone who disagrees with me, or has unreasonable expectations of me, or judges me, wishes me ill. That's a compulsive mind at work, but its so easy to go there, especially if I'm already tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. And tired, stressed, and overwhelmed is a common state in church leadership these days: the world is changing, and congregations are struggling to adapt, declining in the process, grieving the way things used to be. I know the remedy is to remember the anointing, and the cup that is overflowing; to remember that the rod and staff are still with us, comforting us; to remember that goodness and mercy follow us... we don't have to struggle to keep up with goodness and mercy running ahead...
3) What is the invitation in all this? Any number of lines from this psalm are an affirmation to sit with and absorb: "fear no evil;" "you are with me;" "comfort me;" "you anoint my head with oil;" "my cup overflows;" "goodness... shall follow me;" to sit with any one of these lines or combination of lines and let them dwell in my deepest heart.
"Holy One, just to be on the safe side, I want you to know that it would be okay with me to spend a little less time in the presence of my enemies, but if that isn't possible, keep me mindful of your presence and of my cup that indeed overflows."
Breathprayer: "...my cup overflows."
Psalm 23:4-6
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,*
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely* goodness and mercy* shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
my whole life long.*
1) "...you are with me;" "...comfort me;" "...in the presence of my enemies;" "...my cup overflows;" "...all the days of my life;" "
2) My first thought is that I wish I bore the "presence of my enemies" more gracefully. The darkest valley doesn't bother me too much, but people who openly wish me ill will are hard to be around. And, of course, everyone who disagrees with me, or has unreasonable expectations of me, or judges me, wishes me ill. That's a compulsive mind at work, but its so easy to go there, especially if I'm already tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. And tired, stressed, and overwhelmed is a common state in church leadership these days: the world is changing, and congregations are struggling to adapt, declining in the process, grieving the way things used to be. I know the remedy is to remember the anointing, and the cup that is overflowing; to remember that the rod and staff are still with us, comforting us; to remember that goodness and mercy follow us... we don't have to struggle to keep up with goodness and mercy running ahead...
3) What is the invitation in all this? Any number of lines from this psalm are an affirmation to sit with and absorb: "fear no evil;" "you are with me;" "comfort me;" "you anoint my head with oil;" "my cup overflows;" "goodness... shall follow me;" to sit with any one of these lines or combination of lines and let them dwell in my deepest heart.
"Holy One, just to be on the safe side, I want you to know that it would be okay with me to spend a little less time in the presence of my enemies, but if that isn't possible, keep me mindful of your presence and of my cup that indeed overflows."
Breathprayer: "...my cup overflows."
Sunday 4 June 2017
"The Lord... Restores My Soul."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Psalm 23:1-3
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;*
3 he restores my soul.*
He leads me in right paths*
for his name’s sake.
1) "...I shall not want;" "...lie down;" "...green pastures;" "...still waters;" "...he restores my soul;" "...shepherd;" "...makes me;"
2) I remember in the confusion, busy-ness and bewilderment of my first week of seminary, I often jokingly "bleated" in the hallways like a sheep, following the flock from one room/event to another, trusting the flock would get me where I needed to go, I was so overwhelmed. I often rankle at the notion that I should be a sheep. I am no sheep. Even at my most obedient, I'm no sheep. Of course, we've associated meek and mild with sheep... "sheep being led to slaughter" is the expression isn't it? I've seen baby sheep leaping and playing in their pen. Nothing frolics like a lamb, unless its goats. And as Plato pointed out... shepherds shear and eat sheep. So this metaphor has some strong "is not's" going on, which simply means it is a healthy metaphor. God does guide me. And seriously... I have no idea where we are going. I do trust that God will restore my soul. Again and again, I am restored. I am so incredibly for the access I have to "green pastures" and "still waters." Move after move after move, living in all four western provinces to study and work, I have always had ample access to green pastures and still waters, and my soul has been restored.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To acknowledge the "is" and "is not" of a metaphor. To continue trusting the shepherd, especially when I don't know where we are going. Gratitude, gratitude, gratitude for continual restoration.
"Holy One, make us, lead us, restore us."
Breathprayer: "The Lord... restores my soul."
Psalm 23:1-3
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;*
3 he restores my soul.*
He leads me in right paths*
for his name’s sake.
1) "...I shall not want;" "...lie down;" "...green pastures;" "...still waters;" "...he restores my soul;" "...shepherd;" "...makes me;"
2) I remember in the confusion, busy-ness and bewilderment of my first week of seminary, I often jokingly "bleated" in the hallways like a sheep, following the flock from one room/event to another, trusting the flock would get me where I needed to go, I was so overwhelmed. I often rankle at the notion that I should be a sheep. I am no sheep. Even at my most obedient, I'm no sheep. Of course, we've associated meek and mild with sheep... "sheep being led to slaughter" is the expression isn't it? I've seen baby sheep leaping and playing in their pen. Nothing frolics like a lamb, unless its goats. And as Plato pointed out... shepherds shear and eat sheep. So this metaphor has some strong "is not's" going on, which simply means it is a healthy metaphor. God does guide me. And seriously... I have no idea where we are going. I do trust that God will restore my soul. Again and again, I am restored. I am so incredibly for the access I have to "green pastures" and "still waters." Move after move after move, living in all four western provinces to study and work, I have always had ample access to green pastures and still waters, and my soul has been restored.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To acknowledge the "is" and "is not" of a metaphor. To continue trusting the shepherd, especially when I don't know where we are going. Gratitude, gratitude, gratitude for continual restoration.
"Holy One, make us, lead us, restore us."
Breathprayer: "The Lord... restores my soul."
Friday 2 June 2017
"Search Me... Know My Heart."
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully. I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion, and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Psalm 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
24 See if there is any wicked* way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
1) "...know my heart;" "...know my thoughts;" "...lead me in the way everlasting;"
2) These two verses always make me think of the Fourth Step in the Twelve Step Program: "Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves." I feel a tinge of excitement at self discovery, mixed with a tinge of anxiety for what I might discover. The Fourth Step seems somewhat presumptuous and arrogant to me... perfect past tense... as if one is ever finished such an inventory. I feel a sadness (and joy?) that the work is never done. The wisdom behind the oracle of Delphi, "Know thyself" is that knowing one's self is an eternal journey. If indeed we are made in the image and likeness of God, then how could we ever be done searching? So it's up to God. God doesn't need to be bidden to search or test, God is already there. But I need to ask. I need to become vulnerable and admit I need assistance. I need to want to know what is there to be found. I need to trust that what is to be found will displease me, but on the other side, there is awe and wonder. Do I really want God to know my heart? Do I trust myself to be "tested"? "Yes" and "No" both rise up in my heart as I ask those questions. I do trust God. I do trust Wisdom. I do trust prayer, mediation, and age old process. I do want God to know me, even if I'm anxious about knowing myself.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To breathe deeply and trust, to ask humbly to be searched and known, and to let God be God in me, even when that is painful.
"Holy One, know my heart. Lead me in the way."
Breathprayer: "Search me... know my heart."
Psalm 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
24 See if there is any wicked* way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
1) "...know my heart;" "...know my thoughts;" "...lead me in the way everlasting;"
2) These two verses always make me think of the Fourth Step in the Twelve Step Program: "Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves." I feel a tinge of excitement at self discovery, mixed with a tinge of anxiety for what I might discover. The Fourth Step seems somewhat presumptuous and arrogant to me... perfect past tense... as if one is ever finished such an inventory. I feel a sadness (and joy?) that the work is never done. The wisdom behind the oracle of Delphi, "Know thyself" is that knowing one's self is an eternal journey. If indeed we are made in the image and likeness of God, then how could we ever be done searching? So it's up to God. God doesn't need to be bidden to search or test, God is already there. But I need to ask. I need to become vulnerable and admit I need assistance. I need to want to know what is there to be found. I need to trust that what is to be found will displease me, but on the other side, there is awe and wonder. Do I really want God to know my heart? Do I trust myself to be "tested"? "Yes" and "No" both rise up in my heart as I ask those questions. I do trust God. I do trust Wisdom. I do trust prayer, mediation, and age old process. I do want God to know me, even if I'm anxious about knowing myself.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To breathe deeply and trust, to ask humbly to be searched and known, and to let God be God in me, even when that is painful.
"Holy One, know my heart. Lead me in the way."
Breathprayer: "Search me... know my heart."
Thursday 1 June 2017
"O God... Rise up!"
"I ask for the grace to pray and meditate faithfully, I ask for patience, tolerance, empathy, compassion and gentleness. I ask to abstain from anger, anxiety, arrogance, compulsive behaviour, cynicism, discouragement, and self-importance. I ask to know and follow Jesus more closely, seeking justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly."
Psalm 139:19-22
19 O that you would kill the wicked, O God,
and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me—
20 those who speak of you maliciously,
and lift themselves up against you for evil!*
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22 I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.
1) "O... that the bloodthirsty would depart from me;"
2) I debated whether I would pray this passage. It would be easier to move on to the closing verses. But there it is. There are indeed days when I know who the enemy is and I'm quite certain it isn't me. These four verses themselves illustrate the very wickedness they would condemn. I know that it is when I'm feeling my most vehemently towards someone when I'm most deeply in my own wickedness. But whatever you do, don't point that out to me at the time. These are the very depths of the earth where God already knows what is in our hearts and on our lips. The psalm is at least honest in the depths of is feeling. And then I hate myself for my own hatred... and I hate myself for hating myself, and I hate them more for making me hate myself... and that is not the cycle to which we have been called. "Peace be with you," were the first words Jesus spoke to his disciples when he appeared to them. I await with excited anticipation the final verses of the psalm. I think I might find peace there.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To move on to the final verses for the psalm after sitting with the depth of my shadow self.
"Holy One, be with us in darkness, the darkness is as light to you. In the darkness, reveal to us what you would have us see that we cannot see in the light."
Breathprayer: "O God... rise up."
Psalm 139:19-22
19 O that you would kill the wicked, O God,
and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me—
20 those who speak of you maliciously,
and lift themselves up against you for evil!*
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22 I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.
1) "O... that the bloodthirsty would depart from me;"
2) I debated whether I would pray this passage. It would be easier to move on to the closing verses. But there it is. There are indeed days when I know who the enemy is and I'm quite certain it isn't me. These four verses themselves illustrate the very wickedness they would condemn. I know that it is when I'm feeling my most vehemently towards someone when I'm most deeply in my own wickedness. But whatever you do, don't point that out to me at the time. These are the very depths of the earth where God already knows what is in our hearts and on our lips. The psalm is at least honest in the depths of is feeling. And then I hate myself for my own hatred... and I hate myself for hating myself, and I hate them more for making me hate myself... and that is not the cycle to which we have been called. "Peace be with you," were the first words Jesus spoke to his disciples when he appeared to them. I await with excited anticipation the final verses of the psalm. I think I might find peace there.
3) What is the invitation in all this? To move on to the final verses for the psalm after sitting with the depth of my shadow self.
"Holy One, be with us in darkness, the darkness is as light to you. In the darkness, reveal to us what you would have us see that we cannot see in the light."
Breathprayer: "O God... rise up."
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