Greetings!
This is the time of year that many of us think about the year just past and the commitment to specific resolutions to do better at this or that in the coming year. I have a few ideas for you to consider with regards to your spiritual journey for the year ahead. These have been paraphrased from some of my latest readings:
1) Do not know where you are going. Other than knowing our ultimate goal is to be the person God meant us to be, remember that spiritual growth is spontaneous, and is largely a matter of what comes to us each and every moment. It’s not something we can plan for, but we must simply stay in a state of awareness to see what is presented to us. This means using ego awareness, present moment awareness, and practicing the presence of God. Spiritual growth doesn’t happen according to our plan, it happens according to God’s.
2) Do not struggle to get there. Does it help for a two-year old to struggle to become three? Does it help for a tree to struggle to grow leaves? Spiritual growth unfolds in a natural manner. It cannot be forced. Take life as it comes. Sufficient unto this day are the challenges thereof.
3) Spiritual formation is not a self-improvement project. Self-improvement projects are generally related to specific goals – to be better organized, to lose weight, etc. While spiritual awareness may certainly help these goals a great deal, it is best to get specific help to address specific issues. This may need to be a part of your spiritual journey.
4) Do not set a time table for spiritual progress. While some people are motivated by specific time tables and deadlines, that doesn’t work in spiritual development. Yes, discipline is involved, and we need to keep doing our footwork (prayers, study and service), but again, we are on God’s time table, not ours.
5) Do not wait for a miracle. Watching and waiting for a miracle to happen to you implies that you are separate from God – you are here and He is over there, and you are waiting for Him to do something for you. Remember that He is in you, and you in Him. You already ARE a miracle. Life is a miracle. 2010 is a miracle.
Know that you are loved by Our Father,
Blessings!
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Saturday, December 19, 2009
The Magnificat is Magnificent
The readings for this fourth Sunday in Advent include the Magnificat, so named for the Latin translation of the first word of Mary’s canticle. We use this prayer in our daily Vespers/Evensong, and it is something to be savored, word by word, like each bite of a fine meal.
A large part of this canticle reflects what is to come with the ministry of Jesus, which, of course, reflects the standards and plans of Our Father. We see signs of spiritual awakening coming as Mary mentions the scattering of the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. This reflects some of the “inside-out” change coming for those who encounter the Christ. Dissolving of the false self to let the true self emerge. We also see a reversal in power – those on earthly thrones no longer have the grasp over us as does The One who sits on the highest throne, even though the earthly kings may still “rule.” We have a more important King to follow now.
The lowly are lifted up, not so much according to the standards of man’s world, but very much so in the eyes of The One that matters. We learn that we are all equally important to God Our Father; no one is higher than another. We are all members of the same family, even though we have different skills, abilities, preferences and appearances.
The hungry, both spiritually and physically, are filled with good things. And the rich, even though they may have an abundance of material things, are truly empty inside and quite poor if they live without God – they are sent away empty.
Above all, He wishes us to remember His love and mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors. A promise of love, compassion and mercy that will last forever.
The coming of Christ brings a new world order; a new way of thinking; a new way of living; a new way of being. What greater gift this Christmas?
Blessings to all,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
A large part of this canticle reflects what is to come with the ministry of Jesus, which, of course, reflects the standards and plans of Our Father. We see signs of spiritual awakening coming as Mary mentions the scattering of the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. This reflects some of the “inside-out” change coming for those who encounter the Christ. Dissolving of the false self to let the true self emerge. We also see a reversal in power – those on earthly thrones no longer have the grasp over us as does The One who sits on the highest throne, even though the earthly kings may still “rule.” We have a more important King to follow now.
The lowly are lifted up, not so much according to the standards of man’s world, but very much so in the eyes of The One that matters. We learn that we are all equally important to God Our Father; no one is higher than another. We are all members of the same family, even though we have different skills, abilities, preferences and appearances.
The hungry, both spiritually and physically, are filled with good things. And the rich, even though they may have an abundance of material things, are truly empty inside and quite poor if they live without God – they are sent away empty.
Above all, He wishes us to remember His love and mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors. A promise of love, compassion and mercy that will last forever.
The coming of Christ brings a new world order; a new way of thinking; a new way of living; a new way of being. What greater gift this Christmas?
Blessings to all,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Monday, December 14, 2009
Of Roots and Fruits
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
God’s joy for us is hard to capture in words. But He does so love the world that He came to us in the flesh to teach, heal, redeem and offer salvation. In fact, it is my belief that Luke 3:6 reflects this love very well: “And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” There is much support for the idea that He will one day bring home ALL His children – whoever they are.
This seems to fly in the face of teachings that at some point people will be divided into “saved” and “condemned.” Even the readings for this past Sunday (Luke 3:7-18) seem to suggest this, especially as we read starting in verse 17, “His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
So, which is it? Will all of His children be somehow brought back into His grace in some way, or will some be saved (wheat) and others eternally damned (chaff)?
The loving, compassionate, merciful God I have come to know personally is also more clever than we are. If He was able to design and build this entire universe, then He should also be able to figure out a way to bring us all home.
Let’s look closer at verse 17 again. It is important to note that wheat and chaff come from the SAME plant. They are not two separate plants, one good and one bad. They are two parts of the same plant; part good and part not-so-good. Isn’t that like each of us? I know that part of me is good (the true, soul-part that God gave me through His breath of life), and part of me is not-so-good (the dysfunctional ego part).
Perhaps the true message we should consider is that at some point God will put us through a threshing experience to remove the chaff from our souls. Perhaps He wants to recover the part that He made, bring it back home to His arms. The wheat part of us will return to Him, having been made better by our earthly experience, and the chaff part will be removed and destroyed. This process may not be totally pain-free as the realizations of the love opportunities we may have missed in our earthly life come to light. Perhaps it will be a mixture of sorrow and joy. Perhaps for some it will take quite a bit of time.
Perhaps what we do now to reduce the hold our chaff has on our souls may lighten the threshing experience later. That is why we need to learn more about God’s love and joy for all His children, and that we are, in fact, all His children and He is Our Father.
Please reflect on this and let me know your thoughts,
Your Chaffy Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Guardian
God’s joy for us is hard to capture in words. But He does so love the world that He came to us in the flesh to teach, heal, redeem and offer salvation. In fact, it is my belief that Luke 3:6 reflects this love very well: “And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” There is much support for the idea that He will one day bring home ALL His children – whoever they are.
This seems to fly in the face of teachings that at some point people will be divided into “saved” and “condemned.” Even the readings for this past Sunday (Luke 3:7-18) seem to suggest this, especially as we read starting in verse 17, “His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
So, which is it? Will all of His children be somehow brought back into His grace in some way, or will some be saved (wheat) and others eternally damned (chaff)?
The loving, compassionate, merciful God I have come to know personally is also more clever than we are. If He was able to design and build this entire universe, then He should also be able to figure out a way to bring us all home.
Let’s look closer at verse 17 again. It is important to note that wheat and chaff come from the SAME plant. They are not two separate plants, one good and one bad. They are two parts of the same plant; part good and part not-so-good. Isn’t that like each of us? I know that part of me is good (the true, soul-part that God gave me through His breath of life), and part of me is not-so-good (the dysfunctional ego part).
Perhaps the true message we should consider is that at some point God will put us through a threshing experience to remove the chaff from our souls. Perhaps He wants to recover the part that He made, bring it back home to His arms. The wheat part of us will return to Him, having been made better by our earthly experience, and the chaff part will be removed and destroyed. This process may not be totally pain-free as the realizations of the love opportunities we may have missed in our earthly life come to light. Perhaps it will be a mixture of sorrow and joy. Perhaps for some it will take quite a bit of time.
Perhaps what we do now to reduce the hold our chaff has on our souls may lighten the threshing experience later. That is why we need to learn more about God’s love and joy for all His children, and that we are, in fact, all His children and He is Our Father.
Please reflect on this and let me know your thoughts,
Your Chaffy Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Guardian
Saturday, November 7, 2009
The Widow of Zarephath
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
Tomorrow’s reading in I Kings 17 (v.8-16) was, to me, more a story about the widow than it was Elijah. This woman had almost nothing but was asked to feed Elijah, a prophet of God. We read in verse 9 that God had already commanded her to get ready for the impending visit by Elijah, and be prepared to feed him. I can almost hear her thinking, “What? What am I supposed to feed him? My sandals?”
When Elijah arrived and asked for water, the widow didn’t respond, but went to get water. Again, her thinking may have been, “Well, OK. This I can handle, if it’s just water.” But as she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Oh, by the way, bring me some bread to eat, too.” Well, this pushed her over the top. “What? You want bread? I’ll tell you what I have – a handful of nothing and a little oil to mix it with. We’re going to eat that and then starve to death. That’s what I got for you.”
But the power of God would overcome. When the time came to do His command, the resources were there. The widow had been reaching into the imagined future of scarcity and bringing it into the present moment, thwarting the possibilities. God was not expecting anything beyond the basics, beyond what is needed for life. He was not looking for the widow to produce a fancy car, or exceptional performance or notable achievements. He was asking her to share the basics that He would provide.
This was a story of helping the widow to grow. It was a time of refinement for her, of shaping by God. And what’s also interesting about this story is that it took place in a little village named Zarephath. The Hebrew root for this word is Zareph, which means to smelt, refine, or test. Zarephath was a smelting place, a place of refinement.
I am guilty of worrying too much about the future and losing focus on the present moment. Yes, we have to plan for the future, but let’s not forget the God-factor. If He’s asking us to do something, He’ll also provide the resources to do it at the time when it has to be done.
Please reflect on this in the coming week and let me know what comes to your heart.
Your time-traveling brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Tomorrow’s reading in I Kings 17 (v.8-16) was, to me, more a story about the widow than it was Elijah. This woman had almost nothing but was asked to feed Elijah, a prophet of God. We read in verse 9 that God had already commanded her to get ready for the impending visit by Elijah, and be prepared to feed him. I can almost hear her thinking, “What? What am I supposed to feed him? My sandals?”
When Elijah arrived and asked for water, the widow didn’t respond, but went to get water. Again, her thinking may have been, “Well, OK. This I can handle, if it’s just water.” But as she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Oh, by the way, bring me some bread to eat, too.” Well, this pushed her over the top. “What? You want bread? I’ll tell you what I have – a handful of nothing and a little oil to mix it with. We’re going to eat that and then starve to death. That’s what I got for you.”
But the power of God would overcome. When the time came to do His command, the resources were there. The widow had been reaching into the imagined future of scarcity and bringing it into the present moment, thwarting the possibilities. God was not expecting anything beyond the basics, beyond what is needed for life. He was not looking for the widow to produce a fancy car, or exceptional performance or notable achievements. He was asking her to share the basics that He would provide.
This was a story of helping the widow to grow. It was a time of refinement for her, of shaping by God. And what’s also interesting about this story is that it took place in a little village named Zarephath. The Hebrew root for this word is Zareph, which means to smelt, refine, or test. Zarephath was a smelting place, a place of refinement.
I am guilty of worrying too much about the future and losing focus on the present moment. Yes, we have to plan for the future, but let’s not forget the God-factor. If He’s asking us to do something, He’ll also provide the resources to do it at the time when it has to be done.
Please reflect on this in the coming week and let me know what comes to your heart.
Your time-traveling brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Blind Bartimaeus
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community,
Sunday’s gospel reading in Mark (10:46-52), the Healing of Bartimaeus, is a further demonstration of Jesus’ character and love for others. What struck me more than the actual healing of Bartimaeus was the fact that Jesus stopped to pay attention to this man in the first place. Jesus was nearing the end of his earthly ministry and there were large crowds around him. Things were reaching a fevered pitch as Jesus moved toward Jerusalem. A lone, blind beggar began to call out to Jesus for mercy. The crowds kept moving and sternly told the beggar to keep still. Busyness of our life and our causes has an inertia that revolts against our attention to the present moment and the needs each one presents to us.
The lone figure took a leap of hope against the moving crowd. The crowd said “Keep still,” but Christ said, “Come. You count.” The art of stopping for a lone individual in need of help is a high art. “Come. You count.”
Profit or people? What really counts? Perhaps there is a lesson for today’s social issues and our brothers and sisters around the world. Famine, economic parity, health care reform…
Your often too busy Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday’s gospel reading in Mark (10:46-52), the Healing of Bartimaeus, is a further demonstration of Jesus’ character and love for others. What struck me more than the actual healing of Bartimaeus was the fact that Jesus stopped to pay attention to this man in the first place. Jesus was nearing the end of his earthly ministry and there were large crowds around him. Things were reaching a fevered pitch as Jesus moved toward Jerusalem. A lone, blind beggar began to call out to Jesus for mercy. The crowds kept moving and sternly told the beggar to keep still. Busyness of our life and our causes has an inertia that revolts against our attention to the present moment and the needs each one presents to us.
The lone figure took a leap of hope against the moving crowd. The crowd said “Keep still,” but Christ said, “Come. You count.” The art of stopping for a lone individual in need of help is a high art. “Come. You count.”
Profit or people? What really counts? Perhaps there is a lesson for today’s social issues and our brothers and sisters around the world. Famine, economic parity, health care reform…
Your often too busy Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Friday, October 16, 2009
Thoughts on the Jesus Prayer
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community,
I pray that this note finds you all well!
The Jesus Prayer has been used for centuries to help unite people with their creator. It is very old, and may go back to the early centuries of Christianity: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Although today it is perhaps used more in the Eastern Church than the Western, it’s gaining in popularity here, too, as people look for ways to reconnect with God.
I have to admit I don’t use it much, and until this morning I really wasn’t sure why.
My meditations on this day included some writings of Nicholas Herman, otherwise known as Brother Lawrence of the 17th century. He, too, was very interested in reconnecting with God, and focused on practicing the Presence of God. One of the suggestions in his Spiritual Maxims included a series of short prayers that could be offered up to God frequently during the course of a day, similar to the Jesus Prayer. Some suggestions he had to offer:
“Lord, make my heart just like Yours.”
“O God of Love, I love You with all my heart.”
“My God, I am wholly yours.”
As I read these prayers, it struck me that the intent was the same, but the approach was quite different. Br. Lawrence’s approach works better for me as it focuses on the good side of me and not the bad. Yes, there are parts of me that are sinful, but there are also parts of me that are holy – the image of God in me, for example. So, which part is stronger? Does the sinful part totally taint the entire being, or does the holy part overcome the sinful? Thinking of myself as a sinner may be helpful to a point, but it can go too far. How about thinking of myself as a child of God that screws up once in a while? The goal is the same – union with God; but the positive approach works better for me. How about you?
This week try writing your own Jesus Prayer. See what you come up with.
“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, may all our hearts become one.”
Your Part Holy-Part Sinful Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray that this note finds you all well!
The Jesus Prayer has been used for centuries to help unite people with their creator. It is very old, and may go back to the early centuries of Christianity: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Although today it is perhaps used more in the Eastern Church than the Western, it’s gaining in popularity here, too, as people look for ways to reconnect with God.
I have to admit I don’t use it much, and until this morning I really wasn’t sure why.
My meditations on this day included some writings of Nicholas Herman, otherwise known as Brother Lawrence of the 17th century. He, too, was very interested in reconnecting with God, and focused on practicing the Presence of God. One of the suggestions in his Spiritual Maxims included a series of short prayers that could be offered up to God frequently during the course of a day, similar to the Jesus Prayer. Some suggestions he had to offer:
“Lord, make my heart just like Yours.”
“O God of Love, I love You with all my heart.”
“My God, I am wholly yours.”
As I read these prayers, it struck me that the intent was the same, but the approach was quite different. Br. Lawrence’s approach works better for me as it focuses on the good side of me and not the bad. Yes, there are parts of me that are sinful, but there are also parts of me that are holy – the image of God in me, for example. So, which part is stronger? Does the sinful part totally taint the entire being, or does the holy part overcome the sinful? Thinking of myself as a sinner may be helpful to a point, but it can go too far. How about thinking of myself as a child of God that screws up once in a while? The goal is the same – union with God; but the positive approach works better for me. How about you?
This week try writing your own Jesus Prayer. See what you come up with.
“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, may all our hearts become one.”
Your Part Holy-Part Sinful Brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Monday, August 17, 2009
HEAR YE, HERE YE
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the Community!
I pray that this note finds you all well!
Occasionally we hear of people who claim that they have heard the voice of God; that God has actually spoken directly to them! Other people reflect on this claim and reluctantly reveal that they have never heard God’s voice – but they wish they would.
There is some implication in this comparison that those who have heard God’s voice are somehow closer to Him and more spiritual than those who have not heard His voice. Inevitably I am asked (and you may be wondering at this point, too) whether or not I have ever heard God’s voice. Perhaps there is a test embedded in the question, assessing just how far my spiritual quest has brought me.
“Well,” I begin my response, “I most certainly have. As a matter of fact, I hear Him all the time.” The inquirer cautiously moves back a step, uncertain as to what they are now dealing with. So, I need to explain a bit more:
Do I hear God’s voice? You bet I do. He sounds like every person asking for help, or saying thanks, or offering a compliment. He is the sound of every child playing, every person laughing, every bird singing; He sounds like a busy street or a symphony orchestra; I hear Him in the hammering of a house being built, or in an ambulance siren; He’s the sound of a clock ticking or a phone ringing; His voice is the sound of the storm wind or a gentle breeze. When you see a flower He is saying, “See the beauty in the world? Please enjoy it.” God’s voice is the sound of life, moment by moment.
The messages God is sending to us can only be heard in the present moment. So, if you’re waiting to hear a message from God, He’s waiting for you to hear the one’s He’s been sending you.
Listen for the voice of God this coming week; what is He saying to you?
Your brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray that this note finds you all well!
Occasionally we hear of people who claim that they have heard the voice of God; that God has actually spoken directly to them! Other people reflect on this claim and reluctantly reveal that they have never heard God’s voice – but they wish they would.
There is some implication in this comparison that those who have heard God’s voice are somehow closer to Him and more spiritual than those who have not heard His voice. Inevitably I am asked (and you may be wondering at this point, too) whether or not I have ever heard God’s voice. Perhaps there is a test embedded in the question, assessing just how far my spiritual quest has brought me.
“Well,” I begin my response, “I most certainly have. As a matter of fact, I hear Him all the time.” The inquirer cautiously moves back a step, uncertain as to what they are now dealing with. So, I need to explain a bit more:
Do I hear God’s voice? You bet I do. He sounds like every person asking for help, or saying thanks, or offering a compliment. He is the sound of every child playing, every person laughing, every bird singing; He sounds like a busy street or a symphony orchestra; I hear Him in the hammering of a house being built, or in an ambulance siren; He’s the sound of a clock ticking or a phone ringing; His voice is the sound of the storm wind or a gentle breeze. When you see a flower He is saying, “See the beauty in the world? Please enjoy it.” God’s voice is the sound of life, moment by moment.
The messages God is sending to us can only be heard in the present moment. So, if you’re waiting to hear a message from God, He’s waiting for you to hear the one’s He’s been sending you.
Listen for the voice of God this coming week; what is He saying to you?
Your brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Can We Play By These Rules?
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
I pray this note finds you all well! After a dry and cool July, we are now getting a lot of rain. Some of it has even found its way into the cellar!
Recent troubles in our extended family can leave one scratching his head and wondering, “How are we going to straighten all this out?” People talking past each other, accusations, old baggage, finger-pointing – you’ve probably all been there.
Looking over the lectionary readings for this Sunday’s service, I realized that the passages in Ephesians 4 give us a partial answer at least. This list of St. Paul’s for starting a new life could be used as guidelines for resolving disputes. Let’s take a look at these:
· Put away falsehood; speak the truth
· Remember that we are all spiritual brothers and sisters
· It is OK to be angry - emotions compel us to act, and this is not a sin
· BUT! Once we begin to act, ditch the anger. Emotions cloud judgment and decision-making. Don’t let the sun set on your anger.
· Let no evil talk come out of your mouths; instead, uplift each other.
· Put away all bitterness and wrath and malice; instead, be kind to each other, and forgiving
Bottom line, we are to be imitators of God, as His beloved children should be. Following these rules may be only one of the components needed to resolve issues. Outside help is often needed.
NOT following these rules is a guarantee of failure.
And, oh yeah, here’s the most important part – waiting to see if the other person is going to follow these rules before you do is certain failure. It is critical to have the courage of Christ to take the lead on this, whether or not the other person(s) will do it!
Let us praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Your-caught-in-the-middle-brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray this note finds you all well! After a dry and cool July, we are now getting a lot of rain. Some of it has even found its way into the cellar!
Recent troubles in our extended family can leave one scratching his head and wondering, “How are we going to straighten all this out?” People talking past each other, accusations, old baggage, finger-pointing – you’ve probably all been there.
Looking over the lectionary readings for this Sunday’s service, I realized that the passages in Ephesians 4 give us a partial answer at least. This list of St. Paul’s for starting a new life could be used as guidelines for resolving disputes. Let’s take a look at these:
· Put away falsehood; speak the truth
· Remember that we are all spiritual brothers and sisters
· It is OK to be angry - emotions compel us to act, and this is not a sin
· BUT! Once we begin to act, ditch the anger. Emotions cloud judgment and decision-making. Don’t let the sun set on your anger.
· Let no evil talk come out of your mouths; instead, uplift each other.
· Put away all bitterness and wrath and malice; instead, be kind to each other, and forgiving
Bottom line, we are to be imitators of God, as His beloved children should be. Following these rules may be only one of the components needed to resolve issues. Outside help is often needed.
NOT following these rules is a guarantee of failure.
And, oh yeah, here’s the most important part – waiting to see if the other person is going to follow these rules before you do is certain failure. It is critical to have the courage of Christ to take the lead on this, whether or not the other person(s) will do it!
Let us praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Your-caught-in-the-middle-brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Another Lesson from the Garden
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and friends of the Community!
I pray that this note finds you all well!
It has been said that one is nearest to God in a Garden. I guess this goes all the way back to Eden perhaps?
I happened to notice my shadow one afternoon as I roamed through the garden looking for the next vegetable side dish. There, in my straw farmer’s hat, I saw my shadow get twisted out of shape as it wrapped around the edge of a raised bed and get stretched along a walk, yielding to the shape of every weed and pebble.
It reminded me (I’m not sure why) of the impact I sometimes have on other people. My true image, when totally fueled by the Light of The Son, travels from me to its ultimate destination, carrying with it the fullest intent of love in its travels through time and space. Shaped by the Light, it leaves me in a specific form and manner, perfectly reflecting who I am.
But shadows (the impressions we leave on other people and things) are shaped by what they land on, not from where they come. Perhaps this is why we are sometimes misunderstood by others. It is not what we project to them, but the manner and shape that it is received. If the surface of the recipient is rough, what I have tried to do for them may also be viewed roughly. If their surface is slanted, perhaps I will also be seen as slanted.
We can only do our best in this world by being what we were meant to be. We can’t always worry about where our shadow falls, or what it will look like when it gets there. Just continue working God’s love and let the Holy Spirit smoothen out the surface. Just keep going, and do what you were made to do. That is your purpose for Him.
By the way, we had the broccoli!
Br. Daniel-Joseph
I pray that this note finds you all well!
It has been said that one is nearest to God in a Garden. I guess this goes all the way back to Eden perhaps?
I happened to notice my shadow one afternoon as I roamed through the garden looking for the next vegetable side dish. There, in my straw farmer’s hat, I saw my shadow get twisted out of shape as it wrapped around the edge of a raised bed and get stretched along a walk, yielding to the shape of every weed and pebble.
It reminded me (I’m not sure why) of the impact I sometimes have on other people. My true image, when totally fueled by the Light of The Son, travels from me to its ultimate destination, carrying with it the fullest intent of love in its travels through time and space. Shaped by the Light, it leaves me in a specific form and manner, perfectly reflecting who I am.
But shadows (the impressions we leave on other people and things) are shaped by what they land on, not from where they come. Perhaps this is why we are sometimes misunderstood by others. It is not what we project to them, but the manner and shape that it is received. If the surface of the recipient is rough, what I have tried to do for them may also be viewed roughly. If their surface is slanted, perhaps I will also be seen as slanted.
We can only do our best in this world by being what we were meant to be. We can’t always worry about where our shadow falls, or what it will look like when it gets there. Just continue working God’s love and let the Holy Spirit smoothen out the surface. Just keep going, and do what you were made to do. That is your purpose for Him.
By the way, we had the broccoli!
Br. Daniel-Joseph
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Compassion
Dear Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
Back in the time of the Desert Fathers, Theodore came to Abbot Pambo and begged, “Give me a word to live by, Abba.” After careful thought, the Abbot responded, “Compassion. If you have compassion you can speak freely to God.”
As you walk through this coming week with God, check on your compassion. Compassion is being inside of the other to fully understand their situation and how it compares to what is supposed to be. Compassion is one part of what God shared with us as part of his image. Let this flow through to others, to creatures and to yourself. That’s what God does.
I keep you in my prayers daily,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Back in the time of the Desert Fathers, Theodore came to Abbot Pambo and begged, “Give me a word to live by, Abba.” After careful thought, the Abbot responded, “Compassion. If you have compassion you can speak freely to God.”
As you walk through this coming week with God, check on your compassion. Compassion is being inside of the other to fully understand their situation and how it compares to what is supposed to be. Compassion is one part of what God shared with us as part of his image. Let this flow through to others, to creatures and to yourself. That’s what God does.
I keep you in my prayers daily,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Saturday, July 4, 2009
July 4th - Independence Day?
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the Community!
July 4th has been set aside as a day to celebrate the birth of America, to celebrate independence not only for us, but to express a hope that one day all peoples of the world will have freedom.
I can’t help wonder, though, if by wishing for this we get a bit off track.
Wanting to be independent, to be free, rather than being interdependent, was the mistake made back in the Garden of Eden. When we become truly independent, we disconnect ourselves from God, from others, and from nature, not realizing how very much interconnected we all really are. What one person does really affects another, what one person does really affects nature. It’s unmistakable when we look at the record of mankind throughout history.
Becoming truly independent actually brings us into a state of slavery. We become more easily susceptible to the influences of culture and societal norms that may or may not be good for us. We become ensnared in the desires, attachments and prejudices of our runaway egos, causing these scales to build up over our eyes very much like what happened to Saul. The prominence of false values become the norm to which all aspire.
True freedom rests in living a life with God, interconnected with each other. It comes when we shed the shackle of these scales, like Saul did in Acts 9:17-18, and allowing the truth of the Holy Spirit to flow through us. True freedom comes when we finally shed our false self and begin to live the life that God meant us to live, serving Him in our own unique way – a way that no one else could ever possibly do. As Psalm 137:4 asks, “How can we sing the Lord’s song (being who we really are) in a strange land?” (A land where although we think we’re independent we are actually under the influence of a misguided system.)
As Richard Rohr states, “It’s quite clear that in the final analysis it’s the grace of God that liberates us. It’s the experience of divine and unconditional love that really sets us free. No political system can offer us this inner liberty.”
Let us worship the Father in spirit and truth, for it is the truth that shall set you free.
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
July 4th has been set aside as a day to celebrate the birth of America, to celebrate independence not only for us, but to express a hope that one day all peoples of the world will have freedom.
I can’t help wonder, though, if by wishing for this we get a bit off track.
Wanting to be independent, to be free, rather than being interdependent, was the mistake made back in the Garden of Eden. When we become truly independent, we disconnect ourselves from God, from others, and from nature, not realizing how very much interconnected we all really are. What one person does really affects another, what one person does really affects nature. It’s unmistakable when we look at the record of mankind throughout history.
Becoming truly independent actually brings us into a state of slavery. We become more easily susceptible to the influences of culture and societal norms that may or may not be good for us. We become ensnared in the desires, attachments and prejudices of our runaway egos, causing these scales to build up over our eyes very much like what happened to Saul. The prominence of false values become the norm to which all aspire.
True freedom rests in living a life with God, interconnected with each other. It comes when we shed the shackle of these scales, like Saul did in Acts 9:17-18, and allowing the truth of the Holy Spirit to flow through us. True freedom comes when we finally shed our false self and begin to live the life that God meant us to live, serving Him in our own unique way – a way that no one else could ever possibly do. As Psalm 137:4 asks, “How can we sing the Lord’s song (being who we really are) in a strange land?” (A land where although we think we’re independent we are actually under the influence of a misguided system.)
As Richard Rohr states, “It’s quite clear that in the final analysis it’s the grace of God that liberates us. It’s the experience of divine and unconditional love that really sets us free. No political system can offer us this inner liberty.”
Let us worship the Father in spirit and truth, for it is the truth that shall set you free.
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Saturday, June 6, 2009
What Good Work Should I Do?
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
A rainy Saturday here, with temperatures in the low 50s. Certainly not tomato-growing weather!
From the Sayings of the [Desert] Fathers (Verba Seniorum), we find yet another affirmation of our quest as seekers to serve God in our own unique way, in the way that He made each one of us. In Book 1, Of the Perfecting of the Fathers, it is recorded that the great abbot Nistero was asked by a friend, “What good work should I do?” The abbot responded, “The Scripture says that Abraham was hospitable, and God was with him. And Elias loved quiet, and God was with him. And David was humble, and God was with him. What therefore you find that your soul desires in following God, that do, and keep your heart.”
Note that the abbot did not say what your ego desires; but what your soul desires. Your soul is the real you, the part connected with God. The examples of great works mentioned above are those that please God: hospitality, solitude, and humility, because they came from the person’s soul. There are numerous other examples. What does your soul desire? Music? Reflection? Art? Helping? Building? Numbers? Appreciation of nature?
To become who you were made to be is to glorify God.
Have a blessed Trinity Sunday!
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
A rainy Saturday here, with temperatures in the low 50s. Certainly not tomato-growing weather!
From the Sayings of the [Desert] Fathers (Verba Seniorum), we find yet another affirmation of our quest as seekers to serve God in our own unique way, in the way that He made each one of us. In Book 1, Of the Perfecting of the Fathers, it is recorded that the great abbot Nistero was asked by a friend, “What good work should I do?” The abbot responded, “The Scripture says that Abraham was hospitable, and God was with him. And Elias loved quiet, and God was with him. And David was humble, and God was with him. What therefore you find that your soul desires in following God, that do, and keep your heart.”
Note that the abbot did not say what your ego desires; but what your soul desires. Your soul is the real you, the part connected with God. The examples of great works mentioned above are those that please God: hospitality, solitude, and humility, because they came from the person’s soul. There are numerous other examples. What does your soul desire? Music? Reflection? Art? Helping? Building? Numbers? Appreciation of nature?
To become who you were made to be is to glorify God.
Have a blessed Trinity Sunday!
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday, May 17, 2009
A New Song
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the Community!
I pray you are all well!
The first verse in Psalm 98 brought to mind what we, as a Community, and all of us, as Children of God, try to focus on: “O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things.”
And what is this “new song”?
Our daily movements and words are the spiritual notes we play on each measure (each moment) of God’s symphony of life. We are His instruments, each playing a part in his orchestra. Every thing we do and say sends out the sounds of love or the sounds of discord. Are we in tune with Him? Who is actually singing – our true self or our ego?
As we shed the false self from our souls (like Paul did on the road to Damascus), the Gifts of the Holy Spirit begin to flow through us out into the world like a finely tuned instrument. And, oh, what a sound this makes! Peace, joy, harmony, gentleness, understanding, compassion, generosity, self-control, patience… music to His ears. This is the new song!
Observe what “notes” you are playing as you go through the day. Did you hit a sour note? Reflect on it, so that the next time you play it, it will be more in tune.
Let me know how your week goes!
Your occasionally out-of-tune brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray you are all well!
The first verse in Psalm 98 brought to mind what we, as a Community, and all of us, as Children of God, try to focus on: “O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things.”
And what is this “new song”?
Our daily movements and words are the spiritual notes we play on each measure (each moment) of God’s symphony of life. We are His instruments, each playing a part in his orchestra. Every thing we do and say sends out the sounds of love or the sounds of discord. Are we in tune with Him? Who is actually singing – our true self or our ego?
As we shed the false self from our souls (like Paul did on the road to Damascus), the Gifts of the Holy Spirit begin to flow through us out into the world like a finely tuned instrument. And, oh, what a sound this makes! Peace, joy, harmony, gentleness, understanding, compassion, generosity, self-control, patience… music to His ears. This is the new song!
Observe what “notes” you are playing as you go through the day. Did you hit a sour note? Reflect on it, so that the next time you play it, it will be more in tune.
Let me know how your week goes!
Your occasionally out-of-tune brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Waking Gatha
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends,
I pray that this note finds you all weel and full of God’s joy!
Every day brings us hundreds of opportunities to live mindfulness lives; to return us gently to the present moment of awareness where all of life happens. Are you living in the past? Are you liivng in the future? Then, perhaps, you are missing out on the treasures and miracles happening before your very eyes.
There are many ways to awaken our attention to the present moment, to snap us back to reality, to pull the plug on mental movies that keep playing in our heads. One such technique is to use little “gathas.” Gathas are short verses which we recite during our daily activities to remind us of where we are. For example, this gatha can be used when you wake up:
Waking up this morning, I smile.
Twenty-four brand new hours are before me.
I vow to live fully in each moment
And to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.
A great way to start the day is with a smile. As Thich Nhat Hanh writes in “Present Moment, Wonderful Moment,” your smile affirms your awareness and determination to live in peace and joy. The source of a true smile is an awakened mind.
Gathas, which can also be short verses from the Gospels or other scripture, are used for any of our daily activities; brushing our hair, washing the dishes, using the phone, sitting on a chair, getting the mail, opening a door, etc. All the little actions in our life become sacraments of movement revealing the miracles of life.
This week think about the sacredness of movement and being. Write a gatha or two for yourself, and share them if you feel moved to do so. Collect them! Trade them with your friends!
Know that you are loved by Our Lord!
Your gatha-seeking brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray that this note finds you all weel and full of God’s joy!
Every day brings us hundreds of opportunities to live mindfulness lives; to return us gently to the present moment of awareness where all of life happens. Are you living in the past? Are you liivng in the future? Then, perhaps, you are missing out on the treasures and miracles happening before your very eyes.
There are many ways to awaken our attention to the present moment, to snap us back to reality, to pull the plug on mental movies that keep playing in our heads. One such technique is to use little “gathas.” Gathas are short verses which we recite during our daily activities to remind us of where we are. For example, this gatha can be used when you wake up:
Waking up this morning, I smile.
Twenty-four brand new hours are before me.
I vow to live fully in each moment
And to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.
A great way to start the day is with a smile. As Thich Nhat Hanh writes in “Present Moment, Wonderful Moment,” your smile affirms your awareness and determination to live in peace and joy. The source of a true smile is an awakened mind.
Gathas, which can also be short verses from the Gospels or other scripture, are used for any of our daily activities; brushing our hair, washing the dishes, using the phone, sitting on a chair, getting the mail, opening a door, etc. All the little actions in our life become sacraments of movement revealing the miracles of life.
This week think about the sacredness of movement and being. Write a gatha or two for yourself, and share them if you feel moved to do so. Collect them! Trade them with your friends!
Know that you are loved by Our Lord!
Your gatha-seeking brother,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Angels, or just Thunder?
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community,
In today’s lectionary reading in John we learn of yet another voice speaking from heaven. This time it is to affirm that Jesus was indeed glorifying God’s name. In chapter 12, verse 28, Jesus raises a prayer to heaven: “Father, glorify your Name.” The voice responded from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.”
What was interesting to me about this exchange is the perception of it by the people. Verse 29 reads, “The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.”
Why do people have such different interpretations of what they all experience together? Why do some people brush off the obviousness of God as just thunder, while others see it for the truth? Perhaps the answer comes to us a little later in this chapter when we read what the prophet Isaiah observed: “Who believes our message? To whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? Some could not believe because of the hardness of their hearts – and this blinds their eyes and stuffs their ears.” They hear angelic voices only as blunt claps of thunder.
The messages of God’s love are everywhere – if we just have eyes to see and ears to hear. They are in the big things (the earth, the air, the stars) and they are in the little things (a bite of food, a flower, a smile and helping hand from a friend, the whisper of a “thank you”)
The hardness of our heart is another way of describing the dysfunctional ego that encapsulates our soul, clogging our ears and blinding our eyes. As we learn to pry these scales from our soul, as St. Paul did on his journey to Damascus, we begin to more clearly hear the loving angelic voices from heaven, and see the good works of love in our lives, moment by moment. Yes, life is tough, and there is pain, but it is made worse by those who only hear thunder. As more of us hear the angels’ voices, all things will improve.
As you journey through this coming week, watch for two things: First, observe what scales may be covering your heart, and see them for what they are – no good. Second, see more clearly the things that happen in your life, moment by moment, that are little miracles; continuous acts from a loving God trying to get your attention, “Hey you! I love you!”
(And I will try to see the additional snow we got this morning as a blessing. It is a blessing. It IS a blessing. Yes, it is. Well…I’ll keep working on it.)
Blessings to all,
Your brother,
Daniel-Joseph
In today’s lectionary reading in John we learn of yet another voice speaking from heaven. This time it is to affirm that Jesus was indeed glorifying God’s name. In chapter 12, verse 28, Jesus raises a prayer to heaven: “Father, glorify your Name.” The voice responded from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.”
What was interesting to me about this exchange is the perception of it by the people. Verse 29 reads, “The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.”
Why do people have such different interpretations of what they all experience together? Why do some people brush off the obviousness of God as just thunder, while others see it for the truth? Perhaps the answer comes to us a little later in this chapter when we read what the prophet Isaiah observed: “Who believes our message? To whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? Some could not believe because of the hardness of their hearts – and this blinds their eyes and stuffs their ears.” They hear angelic voices only as blunt claps of thunder.
The messages of God’s love are everywhere – if we just have eyes to see and ears to hear. They are in the big things (the earth, the air, the stars) and they are in the little things (a bite of food, a flower, a smile and helping hand from a friend, the whisper of a “thank you”)
The hardness of our heart is another way of describing the dysfunctional ego that encapsulates our soul, clogging our ears and blinding our eyes. As we learn to pry these scales from our soul, as St. Paul did on his journey to Damascus, we begin to more clearly hear the loving angelic voices from heaven, and see the good works of love in our lives, moment by moment. Yes, life is tough, and there is pain, but it is made worse by those who only hear thunder. As more of us hear the angels’ voices, all things will improve.
As you journey through this coming week, watch for two things: First, observe what scales may be covering your heart, and see them for what they are – no good. Second, see more clearly the things that happen in your life, moment by moment, that are little miracles; continuous acts from a loving God trying to get your attention, “Hey you! I love you!”
(And I will try to see the additional snow we got this morning as a blessing. It is a blessing. It IS a blessing. Yes, it is. Well…I’ll keep working on it.)
Blessings to all,
Your brother,
Daniel-Joseph
Monday, March 16, 2009
A New World Economy
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the Community,
I pray that this note finds you all well,
Sunday’s lectionary reading included a review of the Ten Commandments. (Exodus 20:1-17). These statues from God were intended to begin to put into words the love and compassion that would ultimately be fulfilled in the life of Christ. They have produced volumes of commentary over the years, and one could easily spend a lifetime of discussion on them. My thought today, however, is shorter than that, and focuses on verse 17: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or male or female servant, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
Anyone looking for a reason why we are in the middle of a global financial meltdown? This may be the root cause.
I found this reflection written by William Law, an Anglican priest, in the early 1700s:
“If you should see a man that had a large pond of water, yet living in continual thirst, not allowing himself to even drink half a cup for fear of lessening this pond, if you should see him wasting his time and strength in fetching more water to his hand, watching early and late to catch the drops of rain, gaping after every cloud and running greedily into every mire and mud in hopes of finding water and always studying how to make every ditch empty itself into his pond; if you should see him grow gray and old in this anxious labors and at last end a careful, thirsty life by falling into his own pond, would you not say that such a one was not only the author of all his own disquiets, but was foolish enough to be reckoned among idiots and madmen? But yet foolish and absurd as this character is, it does not represent half the follies and absurd disquiets of the covetous person.”
The commandments not to covet are designed to protect us as much as they are to protect our neighbor. Covetousness is a product of a dysfunctional ego. It is based on fear. It goes against the economic equity principles of Christ: If you have two coats, give one to him who has none. This may be a good principle for a new world economy.
Walk with God this coming week!
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
I pray that this note finds you all well,
Sunday’s lectionary reading included a review of the Ten Commandments. (Exodus 20:1-17). These statues from God were intended to begin to put into words the love and compassion that would ultimately be fulfilled in the life of Christ. They have produced volumes of commentary over the years, and one could easily spend a lifetime of discussion on them. My thought today, however, is shorter than that, and focuses on verse 17: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or male or female servant, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
Anyone looking for a reason why we are in the middle of a global financial meltdown? This may be the root cause.
I found this reflection written by William Law, an Anglican priest, in the early 1700s:
“If you should see a man that had a large pond of water, yet living in continual thirst, not allowing himself to even drink half a cup for fear of lessening this pond, if you should see him wasting his time and strength in fetching more water to his hand, watching early and late to catch the drops of rain, gaping after every cloud and running greedily into every mire and mud in hopes of finding water and always studying how to make every ditch empty itself into his pond; if you should see him grow gray and old in this anxious labors and at last end a careful, thirsty life by falling into his own pond, would you not say that such a one was not only the author of all his own disquiets, but was foolish enough to be reckoned among idiots and madmen? But yet foolish and absurd as this character is, it does not represent half the follies and absurd disquiets of the covetous person.”
The commandments not to covet are designed to protect us as much as they are to protect our neighbor. Covetousness is a product of a dysfunctional ego. It is based on fear. It goes against the economic equity principles of Christ: If you have two coats, give one to him who has none. This may be a good principle for a new world economy.
Walk with God this coming week!
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Love's Pursuit
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers and Friends of the Community!
What’s a good activity when you are getting 6-9” more of snow? Reading.
While exploring a book on Simone Weil, I came across this poem by George Herbert. It is about the relentless pursuit of God’s love and compassion of a person judging themselves unworthy of this Love. I thought it was worth sharing and spending some time reflecting on it:
Love bade me welcome, yet my soul drew back,
Guilty of envy and sin.
But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack
From my first entrance in,
Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning,
“Do you lack anything?”
“A guest,” I answered, “worthy to be here.”
Love said, “You shall be he.”
“I the unkind, ungrateful? Ah my dear,
I cannot look on thee.”
Love took my hand, and smiling did reply,
“Who made the eyes but I?’
“Truth, Lord, but I have marred them: let my shame
Go where it does deserve.”
“And know you not,” says Love, “Who bore the blame?”“My dear, then I will serve.”
“You must sit down,” says Love, “and taste my meat.”
So I did sit and eat.
Nothing, says St. Paul, can separate us from the love of God. Remember this!
Blessings to you all,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
What’s a good activity when you are getting 6-9” more of snow? Reading.
While exploring a book on Simone Weil, I came across this poem by George Herbert. It is about the relentless pursuit of God’s love and compassion of a person judging themselves unworthy of this Love. I thought it was worth sharing and spending some time reflecting on it:
Love bade me welcome, yet my soul drew back,
Guilty of envy and sin.
But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack
From my first entrance in,
Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning,
“Do you lack anything?”
“A guest,” I answered, “worthy to be here.”
Love said, “You shall be he.”
“I the unkind, ungrateful? Ah my dear,
I cannot look on thee.”
Love took my hand, and smiling did reply,
“Who made the eyes but I?’
“Truth, Lord, but I have marred them: let my shame
Go where it does deserve.”
“And know you not,” says Love, “Who bore the blame?”“My dear, then I will serve.”
“You must sit down,” says Love, “and taste my meat.”
So I did sit and eat.
Nothing, says St. Paul, can separate us from the love of God. Remember this!
Blessings to you all,
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Monday, February 16, 2009
Naaman's Ego
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends,
Sunday’s reading in 2 Kings 5 was a good example of how our ego can get in the way of God’s healing powers.
Naaman was commander of the army of Aram, a great man and in high favor with his master. Even though he was a mighty warrior, he suffered from some form of skin disease.
Convinced by a little Hebrew girl to go see Elisha, Naaman gathered his horses and chariots, and silver and gold and garments, and went to see him. He was obviously expecting to have to pay a lot, and was expecting to be treated to an important ceremony for his healing: “I thought that for me Elisha would surely come out, and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, and would wave his hand over the spot, and cure the leprosy!”
But what did Elisha the prophet do instead? He sent a servant to Naaman with a message, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh will be clean.” It was almost as if Elisha called out of the kitchen window to Naaman in passing, “Oh, it’s you. Well, just go down to the river and wash up, and you’ll be OK.”
Not being treated like he thought he should, Naaman got angry (or rather his ego got angry), and he left “in a rage.” His ego got in the way of his cure.
Sometimes God’s cures will come in the simple things in life, but we don’t see them because we think we deserve more or we expect more. We are blinded by our ego that wants to be “puffed up.”
Please slow down this week and watch for the little things that God does for us to make our lives whole and healthy. It doesn’t take much. He speaks in a whisper, a breeze in the trees, a smile from a friend, the color of a bird or flower, a bite of good food that nourishes our body, a beautiful Bible verse that nourishes our soul.
Your too-fast Brother,
Daniel-Joseph
Sunday’s reading in 2 Kings 5 was a good example of how our ego can get in the way of God’s healing powers.
Naaman was commander of the army of Aram, a great man and in high favor with his master. Even though he was a mighty warrior, he suffered from some form of skin disease.
Convinced by a little Hebrew girl to go see Elisha, Naaman gathered his horses and chariots, and silver and gold and garments, and went to see him. He was obviously expecting to have to pay a lot, and was expecting to be treated to an important ceremony for his healing: “I thought that for me Elisha would surely come out, and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, and would wave his hand over the spot, and cure the leprosy!”
But what did Elisha the prophet do instead? He sent a servant to Naaman with a message, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh will be clean.” It was almost as if Elisha called out of the kitchen window to Naaman in passing, “Oh, it’s you. Well, just go down to the river and wash up, and you’ll be OK.”
Not being treated like he thought he should, Naaman got angry (or rather his ego got angry), and he left “in a rage.” His ego got in the way of his cure.
Sometimes God’s cures will come in the simple things in life, but we don’t see them because we think we deserve more or we expect more. We are blinded by our ego that wants to be “puffed up.”
Please slow down this week and watch for the little things that God does for us to make our lives whole and healthy. It doesn’t take much. He speaks in a whisper, a breeze in the trees, a smile from a friend, the color of a bird or flower, a bite of good food that nourishes our body, a beautiful Bible verse that nourishes our soul.
Your too-fast Brother,
Daniel-Joseph
Sunday, January 18, 2009
The Temple Within
Greetings, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends,
Today’s lectionary readings in I Samuel 3 told the story of young Samuel, a novice in the service of the Temple, who was awakened several times from his peaceful sleep by the gentle voice of God calling his name. He was given a message to be delivered to Eli, a priest in the Temple. The message was not good news for Eli, but the context with which the message was received by Samuel is good news for us.
Consider these things as you read the story:
1) God is persistent in His attempt to reach us. He doesn’t quit very easily. As long as there is a chance that we will listen, He will speak.
2) The Almighty God who created the entire cosmos is also intimately attached to us, calling us by name to attract our attention and establish a relationship. Samuel! Samuel!
3) God speaks to us in the Temple. In the Hebrew scriptures this was, of course, the one and only Temple in Jersualem. As our understanding of God evolves, however, we are taught in the New Testament that WE are actually the temple of God. “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (I Corin. 3:16) It is actually within us, within our soul, that God speaks. It is through the soul that He placed in us with the breath of life that He speaks to us. The kingdom of God is within you. To hear Him, we need to be still and know that He is God (Ps. 46:10)
As our chaplain, Fr. Patrick, suggested this morning at mass, look for an opportunity this coming week to remind someone else that they are the temple of God. Really!
Know that you are loved,
“All that is necesssary is to look into one’s own heart; for what God asks of us is not found at a great distance.” - St. Jerome.
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Today’s lectionary readings in I Samuel 3 told the story of young Samuel, a novice in the service of the Temple, who was awakened several times from his peaceful sleep by the gentle voice of God calling his name. He was given a message to be delivered to Eli, a priest in the Temple. The message was not good news for Eli, but the context with which the message was received by Samuel is good news for us.
Consider these things as you read the story:
1) God is persistent in His attempt to reach us. He doesn’t quit very easily. As long as there is a chance that we will listen, He will speak.
2) The Almighty God who created the entire cosmos is also intimately attached to us, calling us by name to attract our attention and establish a relationship. Samuel! Samuel!
3) God speaks to us in the Temple. In the Hebrew scriptures this was, of course, the one and only Temple in Jersualem. As our understanding of God evolves, however, we are taught in the New Testament that WE are actually the temple of God. “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (I Corin. 3:16) It is actually within us, within our soul, that God speaks. It is through the soul that He placed in us with the breath of life that He speaks to us. The kingdom of God is within you. To hear Him, we need to be still and know that He is God (Ps. 46:10)
As our chaplain, Fr. Patrick, suggested this morning at mass, look for an opportunity this coming week to remind someone else that they are the temple of God. Really!
Know that you are loved,
“All that is necesssary is to look into one’s own heart; for what God asks of us is not found at a great distance.” - St. Jerome.
Br. Daniel-Joseph, CTG
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Stations of the Manger 12
Stations of the Manger 12. The Flight to Egypt
January 7th
Nativity Scene: An empty manger is all that can be seen; no people or animals remain.
Scripture: (Matt: 2:13-15)
Now when they (the wise men) were departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and stay there until I tell you: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.” And he arose and took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt; and was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt did I call my son.”
Reflection: Sometimes, in order to serve God, we must “flee” for a while, so that we can rest and prepare for our next round of service to Him. Sometimes it is just not right to stay in a situation as it was with Joseph and his family. If we can’t change a situation, or it is such that it can’t be accepted, we must leave it. Not doing any of these three (changing the situation, accepting the situation, or leaving the situation) will probably bring us suffering. It may be better to pull back or go somewhere else to preserve or refresh oneself before reentering the secular fray. Jesus often went off alone to refresh himself, to reconnect with God – to “recharge” before he interacted with others again. If we listen carefully, the Holy Spirit will tell us when we need to withdraw for a while. When
24the time is right, she will call you back once again. God’s timing is always better than ours.
Prayer: God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as the pathway to peace. Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it. Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will;
that I may be reasonably happy in this life, and supremely happy with Him forever in the next.
Amen.
Hymn(s): God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Response: When you’re feeling a bit disconnected and “ungrounded,” it may be time to take a personal retreat for a day or two. Consider making a weekend retreat at your favorite retreat center or monastery. Or, set aside some “alone time” in your own home. Daily prayer time with God is rejuvenating. Anchor each day with morning and evening prayers and meditation.
Blessings to all,
Daniel-Joseph
January 7th
Nativity Scene: An empty manger is all that can be seen; no people or animals remain.
Scripture: (Matt: 2:13-15)
Now when they (the wise men) were departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and stay there until I tell you: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.” And he arose and took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt; and was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt did I call my son.”
Reflection: Sometimes, in order to serve God, we must “flee” for a while, so that we can rest and prepare for our next round of service to Him. Sometimes it is just not right to stay in a situation as it was with Joseph and his family. If we can’t change a situation, or it is such that it can’t be accepted, we must leave it. Not doing any of these three (changing the situation, accepting the situation, or leaving the situation) will probably bring us suffering. It may be better to pull back or go somewhere else to preserve or refresh oneself before reentering the secular fray. Jesus often went off alone to refresh himself, to reconnect with God – to “recharge” before he interacted with others again. If we listen carefully, the Holy Spirit will tell us when we need to withdraw for a while. When
24the time is right, she will call you back once again. God’s timing is always better than ours.
Prayer: God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as the pathway to peace. Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it. Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will;
that I may be reasonably happy in this life, and supremely happy with Him forever in the next.
Amen.
Hymn(s): God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Response: When you’re feeling a bit disconnected and “ungrounded,” it may be time to take a personal retreat for a day or two. Consider making a weekend retreat at your favorite retreat center or monastery. Or, set aside some “alone time” in your own home. Daily prayer time with God is rejuvenating. Anchor each day with morning and evening prayers and meditation.
Blessings to all,
Daniel-Joseph
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Stations of the Manger 11
Stations of the Manger 11. Epiphany
January 6th
Nativity Scene: The Wise Men and camels are added to the scene.
Scripture: (Matt. 2:1-12)
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and are come to worship him.” And when Herod the king heard it, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ should be born. And they said unto him, “In Bethlehem of Judea: for thus it is written through the prophet. And you Bethlehem, land of Judah, are in no wise least among the princes of Judah: For out of you shall come forth a governor, Who shall be shepherd of my people Israel.”
Then Herod privately called the wise men, and learned of them exactly what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, “Go and search out exactly concerning the young child; and when you have found him, bring me word, that I also may come and worship him.” And they, having heard the king, went their way; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and
22stood over where the young child was. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshipped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
Reflection: Even in the peacefulness of the Lord’s birth, those with out-of-control egos, hunger for power and full of fear, lurk to destroy. We must be watchful of those who seek to harm; but we must not stop our life of service to God. You serve Him by being who He made you – using your own unique set of talents and interests and abilities. God’s love will be proclaimed throughout the world as evidenced at the Epiphany.
Prayer: (Vidi Aquam)
I saw water proceeding out of the Temple; From the Right Side it flowed, Alleluia; And all those to whom that water came shall be saved, and shall say, alleluia, alleluia.
Hymn(s): We Three Kings
Response: The gifts of gold, frankincense (incense), or myrrh (incense or oils) that you present to Christ are the valuable gifts that God has given you: your unique, true self that resides in your heart. Stay with him on a spiritual level through your prayer, worship and meditation, and serve him on a physical level using those special interests, talents and abilities that only you have. Thank you for being who you are!
Blessings to all,
Daniel-Joseph
January 6th
Nativity Scene: The Wise Men and camels are added to the scene.
Scripture: (Matt. 2:1-12)
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and are come to worship him.” And when Herod the king heard it, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ should be born. And they said unto him, “In Bethlehem of Judea: for thus it is written through the prophet. And you Bethlehem, land of Judah, are in no wise least among the princes of Judah: For out of you shall come forth a governor, Who shall be shepherd of my people Israel.”
Then Herod privately called the wise men, and learned of them exactly what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, “Go and search out exactly concerning the young child; and when you have found him, bring me word, that I also may come and worship him.” And they, having heard the king, went their way; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and
22stood over where the young child was. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshipped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
Reflection: Even in the peacefulness of the Lord’s birth, those with out-of-control egos, hunger for power and full of fear, lurk to destroy. We must be watchful of those who seek to harm; but we must not stop our life of service to God. You serve Him by being who He made you – using your own unique set of talents and interests and abilities. God’s love will be proclaimed throughout the world as evidenced at the Epiphany.
Prayer: (Vidi Aquam)
I saw water proceeding out of the Temple; From the Right Side it flowed, Alleluia; And all those to whom that water came shall be saved, and shall say, alleluia, alleluia.
Hymn(s): We Three Kings
Response: The gifts of gold, frankincense (incense), or myrrh (incense or oils) that you present to Christ are the valuable gifts that God has given you: your unique, true self that resides in your heart. Stay with him on a spiritual level through your prayer, worship and meditation, and serve him on a physical level using those special interests, talents and abilities that only you have. Thank you for being who you are!
Blessings to all,
Daniel-Joseph
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