We’re now moving into the season I call “hot and cold,” referring to the weather and the world. We get wild swings in temperatures, one day warm enough to consider walking outside on a mid-fall afternoon, the next, bundling up and looking for that homemade soup you stored in the freezer.
Then, of course, there’s the aftermath of the election last week, and we ask ourselves, will this political season never end? We now have threats from the White House telling Democrats not to investigate its corruption too aggressively. This from the same group that has weaponized DOJ to go after any perceived opposition.
Eating soup has a calming effect. Like knitting, it slows you down, forcing you to focus on what’s in front of you. Soup was a mainstay of our ancestors, a way to stay alive when there was little to eat. It’s not that difficult to make and with a crusty loaf, you can calm yourself even as the world swirls around us.
Prayer for the Day
Refresh our spirits and open to us new life, Holy Life-Giver
Clean out the inner stables of our lives that bind us;
You are the light of hope into the dark of the world,
And the light of peace that creates joy in a world of despair,
May we share your hope, your peace, and your joy
And bring about your kingdom of justice and mercy,
In the name the One who shares your mercy with us,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The great benefit of slowing down is reclaiming the time and tranquility to make meaningful connections–with people, with culture, with work, with nature, with our own bodies and minds”
Carl Honoré, In Praise of Slowness: Challenging the Cult of Speed
I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness - it's right in front of me if I'm paying attention and practicing gratitude
Brene Brown, writer
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless God’s holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all God’s benefits,
Who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, Who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103: 1-5