We usually like to think of ourselves as rational beings; in truth, however, we are not. In most aspects of our lives, we are really quite irrational. Even when we see evidence, real evidence, of something that does not comport with our beliefs about the world around us, we go back to thinking that what we see may be only an anomaly.
Our desire is to have the world reflect our beliefs about what should be the case. Often that is not the case, however. We were all surprised at how hot it was last week and how early our daffodils, tulips, and forsythia bloomed, but it’s only a sign of what is to come. And air conditioning won’t take care of it.
In our own personal lives, we do not want to listen to what our bodies tell us. The world tells us to keep pushing, even beyond our breaking points, usually in the guise of employers interested in making money. Shouldn’t we take a second look at how we are living and withdraw to consider what is really important?
Prayer for the Day
We hope to plan and control the future ignoring the grace you offer us,
And often do we turn away from your direction for our lives;
We try to pull you, O God, into the world we create
Rather than trusting in your goodness and mercy.
Move us beyond our preoccupation with ourselves,
Healing us through your grace becoming witnesses of your love,
In the name of the One who expanded our vision of you,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
For grace to be grace, it must give us things we didn't know we needed and take us places where we didn't know we didn't want to go. As we stumble through the crazily altered landscape of our lives, we find that God is enjoying our attention as never before
- Kathleen Norris, from Acedia and Me
Mercy is not getting what you do deserve; grace is getting what you don’t deserve.
- Brendan Manning, poet (1934-2013)
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
I will be glad and exult in you, and sing praises ro your name, O Most High.
Psalm 9: 1-2