Let God Be Present, Uncovering the Will, Courage, and Persistence to Truly Connect is a book recently released by Matthew Brough. This book tackles the often-neglected topic of God’s presence even when you might not want it. It’s hard to admit, but there are times we just don’t want to connect with God. I tend to think as a Christian I “should” want to be in God’s presence all the time. To be honest, sometimes I run from God. I hid from him. I chose to ignore him. As if I could really do those things. Let God Be Present – The Book This book is easy to read and holds short reflections that lead you into pondering a thought for the day. Though the book is not a “how to guide,” Matt doesn’t just leave us hanging in the dark, but provides guidance to tuning in and trusting God more. One sentence I recorded in my journal for further conversations with God is this: “It doesn’t take us long to replace God.” OUCH! A lot of truth in those words. I really like how Matthew … [Read more...]
Quiet Witness
About one hour west of me lives a large Amish community. They are a friendly bunch and traveling in that county is always fun. My good friend, Nancy, and I walked their open-air flea market on Wednesday on a perfect spring day. We found some wonderful treasures and enjoyed our day there. On the way home, we passed a farm field on the north side of Route 20. The scene could have been painted by Norman Rockwell – green billowing grass topped with the blue skies dotted with pure white cumulus clouds. In the middle of this landscape, a bearded Amish man baled hale. Remember the Amish faith doesn’t use modern conveniences, so watching this man work his farm conveyed the perfect image of how we visualize Amish. He rode on the back of his antique machinery pulled by two large beautiful draft horses. Behind him rose rows of mowed green grass, waiting to dry. I said to Nancy, “He doesn’t even know we are watching him, yet his work tells us about his faith. No machinery. … [Read more...]
Commemorating the Duwamish
Ever hear of the Duwamish? I hadn’t and learned some interesting facts about these Native Americans. My church lists the various “commemorations” for the upcoming week on the back of the bulletin. I noticed that tomorrow, June 7, the commemoration of Seattle, Chief of the Duwamish Confederacy died in 1866. The church explains commemoration as this: When we are baptized, we are baptized into the body of Christ. We understand this body to be the communion of saints, a diverse witness of men and women across time and space. Throughout its history, the church has sought to lift up Christians who have been unique, exemplary people of faith. As we remember such Christians, we remember them in the context of remembering Christ. It is not that these people are perfect, as we are all both saint and sinner. Yet their lives point to how God’s “extraordinary grace (works) in ordinary people.” Our faith in God working in them can be a reminder of God’s grace working in all of our … [Read more...]
Monthly Musings –What I Learned in May
May Monthly Musings In my Bible readings, lately the word resonating with me is “remember.” Like pushing the brake, I see this word and stop, noting how much God practices the act of remembering. Many scriptures teach us to remember too. But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and livestock with him in the boat. Genesis 8:1 Then God remembered Rachel’s plight and answered her prayers by enabling her to have children. Genesis 30:22 And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.” Hebrews 8:10 In Biblegateway, the word remember is listed 264 times! The act of remembering, both how God remembers us and how we remember God, is a powerful practice. How are you living a reflective life? Each month I look back at what I am discovering, learning, and exploring in life – I call these my monthly musings. Capturing these special moments gives meaning, depth, and delight to life. Let’s wake up to the wonders in the ordinary all around … [Read more...]
What is Pentecost? – Let’s Celebrate!
Pentecost! What is your favorite faith holiday? Families plan big get togethers for Christmas. We decorate our homes – inside and out. We bake up a storm – sharing all the caloric goodies with everyone the whole month of December. We hunt for just the right gift to bring a smile to our loved ones. We hold candles and sing hymns that stir our hearts in holiness on Christmas eve. Families plan big get togethers for Easter, too. We bake the ham. Put bunnies on the table. Hide eggs in the backyard. Gorge ourselves on Cadberry eggs and jellybeans. The old wooden cross and a crown of thorns brings tears to our eyes. We vow to love more like Jesus and to live as he did. What about Pentecost? My latest pet peeve is that as Christians we go all out to celebrate Christmas and Easter, but what about this significant holiday in our faith? I think it is time for Pentecost to have its due! Christmas – God came down to us. Easter – Jesus rose, defeating sin and death. Pentecost – the … [Read more...]
St. Brendan the Navigator – A Story of Transformation
What do you know about St Brendan the Navigator? I never heard of Brendan, but learned last week, May 16, was his feast day and his story is an example of a journey towards transformation. Since transformation is this month’s theme, I wanted to know more about him. I choose St Brendan as our person of the month here on Healthy Spirituality. Each month on my Thursday posts, I pick one theme (or person of faith) to explore deeper. I call this series Tending the Holy Thursdays. The first post on spiritual transformation is found here. Don’t forget to download the free worksheet called “Transformation Reflection Guide: Questions and Quotes to Quicken Change.” Each quote and/or bible verse is followed by a question to prompt my prayers, journaling and thoughts. I have left space after each one for you to add notes too. You can get this free worksheet by clicking the button at the end of the post. It is my hope and prayer that this series and the download will enhance your walk with … [Read more...]
Whispers of Rest – A Book Review
“Wow! I need a rest!” I lamented these words yesterday out loud to no one expect my own weary soul. After 10 days of busyness, crazy schedule, dashing from one meeting/project to another, wearing different hats and carrying cumbersome expectations, all I wanted to do was to stop the hamster wheel. Reading is an essential self-care joy that renews my soul. I intentionally chose last evening to put my jammies on early and my feet up, snuggle under a warm blanket and to open a book. Ahhh, the tiring, tedious tension trickled from my heart. The quiet whisper of rest revived me. Whispers of Rest Whispers of Rest – 40 Days of God’s Love to Revitalize Your Soul – a new release by Bonnie Gray, arrived at my home at just the right time. I received this book free as I am a member of her book launch team and feel so blessed to read its words. I am under no obligation to give a good review, but want you to do know this is a wonderful devotional to add to your time with God. This … [Read more...]
5 + 3 Quotes to Ponder about Spiritual Transformation
Transformation – What does this mean to you? In May on the Healthy Spirituality blog, the spiritual practice of transformation is our featured topic. Each month on my Thursday posts, I pick one theme (or person of faith) to explore deeper. I call this series Tending the Holy Thursdays. Last week I introduced some thoughts about spiritual transformation what it is like as we, mere humans, are formed by God’s hand. What emotions and images this process produces in our heart. Tuesday I loved Ceil Ryan’s essay about transformation and today I want to share with you some quotes to consider. As usual I created a free download for you. I wrote out a worksheet for myself and to share with you called “Transformation Reflection Guide: Questions and Quotes to Quicken Change.” Each quote and/or bible verse is followed by a question to prompt my prayers, journaling and thoughts. I have left space after each one for you to add notes too. You can get this free worksheet by clicking the … [Read more...]