Good News
Between you and me, I could use some good news right now. I can’t decide whether the world is more pain-filled than before, or I am just more aware of the pain. As inward journey practices quiet my mind, I am acutely aware of the pain and suffering both around and within me. My outward […]
Seeing Angels
Image: Ladder of Divine Ascent, 12th century icon from Sinai Over the years, I’ve known a lot of people who have yearned for mystical experiences. They seclude themselves in ashrams, fast for long periods of time, undertake extreme forms of meditation, or ingest various substances in an attempt to alter their consciousness. When I was […]
Too Much to Lose
Just a few weeks ago, I was writing about John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, so I guess it should come as no surprise that reading about the visit of the Magi* I’m struck by the contrast between Herod’s and John’s responses to the coming of Jesus. After all, their situations have a […]
The Power of Blessing
When a much-admired elder said, “Why don’t you bring your teaching gifts into the church?” I replied, “Oh no, I haven’t been to seminary.” “Nonsense!” he said. This simple exchange was a turning point in my life. It was a simple word of blessing that planted a seed. More than a compliment, I felt […]
