As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Reading a Gospel for the first time
"Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed."
Luke 1:1-4
One of the questions most frequently asked of me is, "Just what is a Gospel?" Millions of people throughout world history have asked that important question. Gospels are the Jesus stories that have brought hope to people throughout the centuries. Each Gospel lesson teaches spiritual empowerment. One does not have to be a Christian to read them or live by these life-nourishing principles.
The Gospel writers are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. None attended formal seminary, yet each individual writer brings his unique perspective and understanding of the amazing spiritual leader named Jesus Christ. Quite frankly, Jesus turned their earthly world upside down and they had to share these adventures with God. So they wrote about his birth, life, ministry, death, and amazing return from the dead. These stories have transformed lives in every culture, language, and country over the past two millennia. People have joyously gone to their deaths as martyrs of the Jesus faith rather than betray or deny this amazing teacher, healer, preacher, friend, beloved companion, and prophet.
All the Gospels are good reading. Matthew writes from an orthodox Jewish perspective and includes many of the major teachings of Jesus. Mark's Gospel is shorter and written for people without a Jewish background. Luke is a non-Jewish physician who carefully researched the Jesus stories for a two-part series. The Gospel of Luke is written to describe Jesus as the Great Physician while the book of Acts, also attributed to Luke, is an adventure account of the early church. John's Gospel is written from the heart about beloved Jesus.
The Greek meaning of the word gospel means "good news." Gospels are written accounts by four writers who shared what they knew about Jesus' teaching, about the Jesus way of life. The Gospels are a carefully gathered selection of stories and teachings by people, called disciples, who followed Jesus. Disciples are spiritual apprentices who study the teachings and life of their spiritual leader. They share these teachings and lifestyles with others. Christian discipleship begins with two simple words uttered by Jesus, "Follow me."
God, help us be spiritual apprentices as we begin our reading adventure with you! Begin a spiritual revolution in our lives today. Show us what it means to follow Jesus. Amen.
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Sunday, March 25, 2007
New Sterling Silver Pendants
Chi Rho Press, your MCC LGBT Christian publishing house, now carries Solid Sterling Silver MCC crosses and logos!
A Gay jewelry artist has cast the traditional MCC Chi Rho cross and the newer MCC logo in Solid Sterling Silver for Chi Rho Press.
The traditional MCC Cross with the overlapped Greek letters Chi and Rho in the center (a traditional monogram for Christ, being the first letters in the Greek word Christos) and the Greek letters Alpha and Omega on the cross bar (the first and last letters in the Greek alphabet, signifying the Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end). On the reverse of the cross is the dove of the Holy Spirit. The Solid Sterling Silver crosses are 13/16 inches wide and 1 inch tall, and sell for $19.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more are $14.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Chains are extra.
The new MCC logo on a round pendant with the flame of the Holy Spirit intersecting the stylized globe. The Solid Sterling Silver MCC logos are 7/8 inch in diameter, and sell for $24.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more are $18.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Chains are extra.
We also have 24 inch chains in polished steel for $2.50 each and in Solid Sterling Silver for $10.00 each, plus shipping and handling.
Please see and order your MCC Crosses or MCC Logos at this link: http://www.chirhopress.com/products/silver_jewelry.html
A Gay jewelry artist has cast the traditional MCC Chi Rho cross and the newer MCC logo in Solid Sterling Silver for Chi Rho Press.
The traditional MCC Cross with the overlapped Greek letters Chi and Rho in the center (a traditional monogram for Christ, being the first letters in the Greek word Christos) and the Greek letters Alpha and Omega on the cross bar (the first and last letters in the Greek alphabet, signifying the Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end). On the reverse of the cross is the dove of the Holy Spirit. The Solid Sterling Silver crosses are 13/16 inches wide and 1 inch tall, and sell for $19.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more are $14.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Chains are extra.
The new MCC logo on a round pendant with the flame of the Holy Spirit intersecting the stylized globe. The Solid Sterling Silver MCC logos are 7/8 inch in diameter, and sell for $24.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more are $18.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Chains are extra.
We also have 24 inch chains in polished steel for $2.50 each and in Solid Sterling Silver for $10.00 each, plus shipping and handling.
Please see and order your MCC Crosses or MCC Logos at this link: http://www.chirhopress.com/products/silver_jewelry.html
Reflection, March 25, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
A blessing word
"Solomon had made a bronze platform five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high, and had set it in the court; and he stood on it. Then he knelt on his knees in the presence of the whole assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands towards heaven."
2 Chronicles 6:13
The most commonly used Hebrew word for blessing in the Old Testament is "barak." It is used hundreds of times. It means to kneel, bless, praise, and salute. Some feel there is an association between kneeling and receiving a blessing (2 Chronicles 6:13; Psalm 95:6; Genesis 24:11). One theological dictionary summarized the use of "barak" in Old Testament blessings in this way, "To bless in the Old Testament means to endure with power for success, prosperity, fecundity, longevity." (Harris, R. Laird, Gleason L. Archer, Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke. "Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament." Volume 1, p. 132)
In general, it seems that blessings are bestowed from the greater to the lesser such as from a father to a son (Genesis 49), brother to a sister (Genesis 24:6), or a King to his subjects (1 Kings 8:14). Blessings are given for special occasions, departures, and introductions (2 Chronicles 6:3; Genesis 47:7, 10). But the main function of blessing seems to confer abundant and effective life upon something or someone (Genesis 2:3; 27:27ff; Genesis 49; 1 Samuel 9:13; Isaiah 66:3). Blessing can be a formalized way of expressing thanks and praise to a person for life's abundance. It can offer futuristic power for living in a person.
However "barak" may be used, it is used with the knowledge that God is the only source of blessing. God controls blessing. Only God's presence can bring true blessing and God's name is the heart of all blessing. Those wrongly related to God
cannot bless or be blessed (Deuteronomy 10:8; Malachi 2:2).
Barak blessings are for people of all sexual orientations. So consider an experiment with God today.
Take a moment and kneel in your hearts. Spread out your hands toward heaven. Ask God for moments of barak blessed awareness as you go about your day. Count your blessings with gratitude and joy. You will be amazed at how many come your way.
God, you are our ultimate source of blessing. Energize us with your presence and power. Give us a special blessing today. Amen.
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
A blessing word
"Solomon had made a bronze platform five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high, and had set it in the court; and he stood on it. Then he knelt on his knees in the presence of the whole assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands towards heaven."
2 Chronicles 6:13
The most commonly used Hebrew word for blessing in the Old Testament is "barak." It is used hundreds of times. It means to kneel, bless, praise, and salute. Some feel there is an association between kneeling and receiving a blessing (2 Chronicles 6:13; Psalm 95:6; Genesis 24:11). One theological dictionary summarized the use of "barak" in Old Testament blessings in this way, "To bless in the Old Testament means to endure with power for success, prosperity, fecundity, longevity." (Harris, R. Laird, Gleason L. Archer, Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke. "Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament." Volume 1, p. 132)
In general, it seems that blessings are bestowed from the greater to the lesser such as from a father to a son (Genesis 49), brother to a sister (Genesis 24:6), or a King to his subjects (1 Kings 8:14). Blessings are given for special occasions, departures, and introductions (2 Chronicles 6:3; Genesis 47:7, 10). But the main function of blessing seems to confer abundant and effective life upon something or someone (Genesis 2:3; 27:27ff; Genesis 49; 1 Samuel 9:13; Isaiah 66:3). Blessing can be a formalized way of expressing thanks and praise to a person for life's abundance. It can offer futuristic power for living in a person.
However "barak" may be used, it is used with the knowledge that God is the only source of blessing. God controls blessing. Only God's presence can bring true blessing and God's name is the heart of all blessing. Those wrongly related to God
cannot bless or be blessed (Deuteronomy 10:8; Malachi 2:2).
Barak blessings are for people of all sexual orientations. So consider an experiment with God today.
Take a moment and kneel in your hearts. Spread out your hands toward heaven. Ask God for moments of barak blessed awareness as you go about your day. Count your blessings with gratitude and joy. You will be amazed at how many come your way.
God, you are our ultimate source of blessing. Energize us with your presence and power. Give us a special blessing today. Amen.
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Reflection, March 18, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
When life goes bad
"And both Mahlon and Chil'ion died, so that the woman [Naomi] was bereft of her two sons and her husband."
Ruth 1:5
What does it mean to go from joy to bitterness? From fullness to emptiness? What does it mean to leave our families of origin to seek a new life with a family of choice? How do we survive multiple bereavements, setbacks, crushing disappointments, and broken dreams? Where is God in all this pain? How do we experience the blessings of God when life goes terribly bad?
If you have ever asked these questions yourself, keep reading. Even when the unthinkable happens, we can experience blessing empowerment while grieving and rebuilding our lives.
But how? The remarkable and timeless story of Naomi can show us the way. Life had dealt her the worst that could happen. First, her husband died. Subsequent tragedy then took the lives of both her adult sons. In her extreme grief, Naomi decided to return to her birth country and family of origin for survival. Ruth, one of her beloved daughters-in-law insisted on accompanying her. Ruth's deep love, friendship, and devotion would become an ongoing source of blessing for Naomi in the days ahead.
Reflect upon your own life. How have friends strengthened and encouraged you in the past? Through their love and faithfulness, how did you experience God's loving presence through it all? Try to make the effort to thank friends for their encouraging words and many acts of kindness during times of deep personal grief and loss. Thank God for the countless blessings of friendship. Pray for cherished friends even when your own heart is throbbing with anguish. Such heartfelt prayers tap into an unlimited source of divine strength and loving encouragement. Remember to keep looking up and when you are feeling fragile, treat yourself gently. Take it one day at a time.
God, help us grow in strength and wisdom through Naomi's story. Bless us with good friends and help us be a blessed friend ourselves. Amen.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
When life goes bad
"And both Mahlon and Chil'ion died, so that the woman [Naomi] was bereft of her two sons and her husband."
Ruth 1:5
What does it mean to go from joy to bitterness? From fullness to emptiness? What does it mean to leave our families of origin to seek a new life with a family of choice? How do we survive multiple bereavements, setbacks, crushing disappointments, and broken dreams? Where is God in all this pain? How do we experience the blessings of God when life goes terribly bad?
If you have ever asked these questions yourself, keep reading. Even when the unthinkable happens, we can experience blessing empowerment while grieving and rebuilding our lives.
But how? The remarkable and timeless story of Naomi can show us the way. Life had dealt her the worst that could happen. First, her husband died. Subsequent tragedy then took the lives of both her adult sons. In her extreme grief, Naomi decided to return to her birth country and family of origin for survival. Ruth, one of her beloved daughters-in-law insisted on accompanying her. Ruth's deep love, friendship, and devotion would become an ongoing source of blessing for Naomi in the days ahead.
Reflect upon your own life. How have friends strengthened and encouraged you in the past? Through their love and faithfulness, how did you experience God's loving presence through it all? Try to make the effort to thank friends for their encouraging words and many acts of kindness during times of deep personal grief and loss. Thank God for the countless blessings of friendship. Pray for cherished friends even when your own heart is throbbing with anguish. Such heartfelt prayers tap into an unlimited source of divine strength and loving encouragement. Remember to keep looking up and when you are feeling fragile, treat yourself gently. Take it one day at a time.
God, help us grow in strength and wisdom through Naomi's story. Bless us with good friends and help us be a blessed friend ourselves. Amen.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Go Ahead, Be Angry at God
Recently, this e-mail appeared in my box:
"I just want to thank you for your article about being angry with God. I have been harboring a serious anger with God for many years. I felt like I hated God. I broke down and cried when I read this article. This article has helped me approach God and make a serious peace. I can't really explain it all to you, but I just have to say that I was Googling some feelings that I was having and your article came up and was the right one at the right time for me. Thank you. Steve."
And thank you so much to Steve who through the miracle of the Internet found an article I wrote in 2000 for Whosoever, an excellent on-line magazine for LGBT Christians published by the wonderful Candace Chellew. (http://www.whosoever.org) This article appeared in Volume 5, Issue 3, in November/December 2000.
I thought it might be useful to put the article on our Blog, so here it is.
Too often I hear people talk guiltily about feeling anger toward God.
More often than not, we get angry at God over things over which we have no control. If we don't control it, God must - someone has to be in control!
It may be a failed relationship. Or the death of a loved one. Or our cumulative grief over the on-going HIV/AIDS crisis. Or financial worries. Or any number of things about which we feel we have no control.
So we are angry. And since no one else seems to be available to be angry at, we get angry at God.
And we feel guilty. We feel we shouldn't get angry at God! We worry that God's feelings will be hurt. Or worse yet, God will return our anger - and we all know how much better at being angry God could be!
Nonsense.
I say, Go ahead, be angry at God!
This isn't like the old saying about not teaching a pig to sing, because you won't succeed and it will only irritate the pig. Being angry at God may indeed have a salutary effect on your life. And I don't believe it will irritate God.
First of all, God already knows that we are angry - if not, then God isn't God. Being all-knowing, God is quite familiar with your anger, even before you are. Our anger will not come as a surprise to God.
Second, God knows the source of our anger. God knows the events and experiences that make us angry. God knows our emotions and feelings. God knows all about our situation. God might even share our anger!
Third, God knows why we are angry - the feelings of helplessness, fear, confusion, and dismay that lead to our anger. God intimately knows the inner workings of our minds and spirits, and God knows our limitations. We often are angry because we are powerless, and God knows our powerlessness.
Fourth, God can take it. Oh yes, our anger is so titanic that God will quail before us! Nonsense. God has faced greater anger than ours and survived! God's shoulders are broad and powerful - God can certainly deal with our puny anger. We do not run the risk of harming God with our anger.
So if God already knows about our anger, understands the source of our anger, discerns why we are angry, and can easily handle our anger, why are we reluctant or guilty about expressing our anger?
In fact, some times expressing our anger can be a good thing for us. It is good to vent a bit. Rather than keeping it all pent up inside us, some times just letting go and yelling our heads off can be a good thing. Too often we let our anger fester inside us, building up and growing until it seeks escape in destructive and violent ways. Let off some of that steam - go outside and yell at God. Sit in your room and tell God what you think. Pace your living room and give God a piece of your mind. Give God a good talking to! Read God's beads!
You just might feel better and God won't be any worse off - honest!
Then you can go about the business of seeing with a clearer mind if there might be some way for you to do something about the situation. Clear the air with God about your anger, and then sit down with God and try to figure something out. But it is often necessary to get that anger and fury out of the way first. Having done that, you can more calmly and dispassionately consider the problem about which you are angry and find ways to do something constructive about it.
So go ahead, be angry at God. God can take it. There won't be any retribution from God. And you might be able to do some clear and constructive thinking about what made you angry after venting your emotions.
"I just want to thank you for your article about being angry with God. I have been harboring a serious anger with God for many years. I felt like I hated God. I broke down and cried when I read this article. This article has helped me approach God and make a serious peace. I can't really explain it all to you, but I just have to say that I was Googling some feelings that I was having and your article came up and was the right one at the right time for me. Thank you. Steve."
And thank you so much to Steve who through the miracle of the Internet found an article I wrote in 2000 for Whosoever, an excellent on-line magazine for LGBT Christians published by the wonderful Candace Chellew. (http://www.whosoever.org) This article appeared in Volume 5, Issue 3, in November/December 2000.
I thought it might be useful to put the article on our Blog, so here it is.
Too often I hear people talk guiltily about feeling anger toward God.
More often than not, we get angry at God over things over which we have no control. If we don't control it, God must - someone has to be in control!
It may be a failed relationship. Or the death of a loved one. Or our cumulative grief over the on-going HIV/AIDS crisis. Or financial worries. Or any number of things about which we feel we have no control.
So we are angry. And since no one else seems to be available to be angry at, we get angry at God.
And we feel guilty. We feel we shouldn't get angry at God! We worry that God's feelings will be hurt. Or worse yet, God will return our anger - and we all know how much better at being angry God could be!
Nonsense.
I say, Go ahead, be angry at God!
This isn't like the old saying about not teaching a pig to sing, because you won't succeed and it will only irritate the pig. Being angry at God may indeed have a salutary effect on your life. And I don't believe it will irritate God.
First of all, God already knows that we are angry - if not, then God isn't God. Being all-knowing, God is quite familiar with your anger, even before you are. Our anger will not come as a surprise to God.
Second, God knows the source of our anger. God knows the events and experiences that make us angry. God knows our emotions and feelings. God knows all about our situation. God might even share our anger!
Third, God knows why we are angry - the feelings of helplessness, fear, confusion, and dismay that lead to our anger. God intimately knows the inner workings of our minds and spirits, and God knows our limitations. We often are angry because we are powerless, and God knows our powerlessness.
Fourth, God can take it. Oh yes, our anger is so titanic that God will quail before us! Nonsense. God has faced greater anger than ours and survived! God's shoulders are broad and powerful - God can certainly deal with our puny anger. We do not run the risk of harming God with our anger.
So if God already knows about our anger, understands the source of our anger, discerns why we are angry, and can easily handle our anger, why are we reluctant or guilty about expressing our anger?
In fact, some times expressing our anger can be a good thing for us. It is good to vent a bit. Rather than keeping it all pent up inside us, some times just letting go and yelling our heads off can be a good thing. Too often we let our anger fester inside us, building up and growing until it seeks escape in destructive and violent ways. Let off some of that steam - go outside and yell at God. Sit in your room and tell God what you think. Pace your living room and give God a piece of your mind. Give God a good talking to! Read God's beads!
You just might feel better and God won't be any worse off - honest!
Then you can go about the business of seeing with a clearer mind if there might be some way for you to do something about the situation. Clear the air with God about your anger, and then sit down with God and try to figure something out. But it is often necessary to get that anger and fury out of the way first. Having done that, you can more calmly and dispassionately consider the problem about which you are angry and find ways to do something constructive about it.
So go ahead, be angry at God. God can take it. There won't be any retribution from God. And you might be able to do some clear and constructive thinking about what made you angry after venting your emotions.
Reflection, March 11, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of March 11, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
When blessing is denied
"Then Esau said, 'Have you not reserved a blessing for me?'"
Genesis 27:36d
The concept of blessing is ancient and found in many cultures. We can learn and appropriate the Jewish tradition of blessing for our own use in modern Western cultural contexts. If we get a blessing from our parents, we can be a source of blessing to others and ourselves. Families that withhold or deny blessings are very hurtful to their children.
Blessing is well documented in the Middle East. In ancient Jewish culture, blessing was part of daily and weekly life. Before children could walk, they received blessings from their parents, on the Sabbath, and other holy days. It was actually the duty of parents to bless their children. It was then the duty of the rabbis to bless the children on Sabbath, feast, and other holy days. A family blessing is important to communicate a sense of identity, meaning, love, and acceptance. Many orthodox Jewish families give their children a weekly blessing by candlelight. They speak special words of love and acceptance for each child.
I have listened to many people over the years when their families reject them. I wonder if parents truly understand the pain caused when a blessing is denied their children. People are denied parental blessing for many reasons. Perhaps a desperate woman had an abortion, or another has taken drugs. Many parents from abusive homes never received a blessing themselves and pass on their destructive behaviors to the next generation. Denied blessing can lead to desperate and destructive behaviors as people look for love in all the wrong places.
The six most healing words in the world are "God bless you" and "I love you." When was the last time we spoke those words to someone in our family? When was the last time we shared these words with friends? Have we denied someone their blessing through our words or actions?
God, even if others may have denied me a blessing, help me bless them. Amen.
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
When blessing is denied
"Then Esau said, 'Have you not reserved a blessing for me?'"
Genesis 27:36d
The concept of blessing is ancient and found in many cultures. We can learn and appropriate the Jewish tradition of blessing for our own use in modern Western cultural contexts. If we get a blessing from our parents, we can be a source of blessing to others and ourselves. Families that withhold or deny blessings are very hurtful to their children.
Blessing is well documented in the Middle East. In ancient Jewish culture, blessing was part of daily and weekly life. Before children could walk, they received blessings from their parents, on the Sabbath, and other holy days. It was actually the duty of parents to bless their children. It was then the duty of the rabbis to bless the children on Sabbath, feast, and other holy days. A family blessing is important to communicate a sense of identity, meaning, love, and acceptance. Many orthodox Jewish families give their children a weekly blessing by candlelight. They speak special words of love and acceptance for each child.
I have listened to many people over the years when their families reject them. I wonder if parents truly understand the pain caused when a blessing is denied their children. People are denied parental blessing for many reasons. Perhaps a desperate woman had an abortion, or another has taken drugs. Many parents from abusive homes never received a blessing themselves and pass on their destructive behaviors to the next generation. Denied blessing can lead to desperate and destructive behaviors as people look for love in all the wrong places.
The six most healing words in the world are "God bless you" and "I love you." When was the last time we spoke those words to someone in our family? When was the last time we shared these words with friends? Have we denied someone their blessing through our words or actions?
God, even if others may have denied me a blessing, help me bless them. Amen.
Reflection, March 4, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of March 4, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Blessed rest with Jesus
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)
Certainly Jesus understands our needs for rest. He invites all of us to enter his rest through some of the most cherished words in the Scriptures. A spiritually empowering meditation can be experienced through the ancient, cherished practice called "lectio divina." "Lectio," as it is more commonly called, is a simple form of holy reading. Sacred words are slowly read with pauses of silence. Read these words again and again until a word or phrase lingers in your heart. Simply breathe with it and let it become the prayer of your heart. "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NRSV).
Are you feeling tired today? Is there some inner burden that is exhausting you? Can you share that sense of burden with God? Consider writing down your feelings and whatever comes to mind in the silence. List your heavy loads and concerns. Ask God for rest and strength for the day.
God, help us come into your blessed rest. Carry our burdens today. Amen.
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Blessed rest with Jesus
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)
Certainly Jesus understands our needs for rest. He invites all of us to enter his rest through some of the most cherished words in the Scriptures. A spiritually empowering meditation can be experienced through the ancient, cherished practice called "lectio divina." "Lectio," as it is more commonly called, is a simple form of holy reading. Sacred words are slowly read with pauses of silence. Read these words again and again until a word or phrase lingers in your heart. Simply breathe with it and let it become the prayer of your heart. "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NRSV).
Are you feeling tired today? Is there some inner burden that is exhausting you? Can you share that sense of burden with God? Consider writing down your feelings and whatever comes to mind in the silence. List your heavy loads and concerns. Ask God for rest and strength for the day.
God, help us come into your blessed rest. Carry our burdens today. Amen.
Reflection, Feb. 25, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of February 25, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Spiritual success
"In the morning, while it was still very dark, Jesus got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed."
Mark 1:35
"Without silence, there is no solitude."
- Richard Foster
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a famous Lutheran pastor who lived in Nazi Germany during World War Two. He actively worked with the underground resistance in an effort to remove Hitler from power. He passionately believed we need both solitude and community for spiritual success. Both are essential.
There is an inseparable connection between inner silence and inner solitude. Masters of the interior life have often written of this profound truth. The purpose of silence and solitude is to be able to see and hear. They are powerful inner disciplines and help us know when to speak and when to refrain from words. There "is a time to keep silence and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes 3:7). "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver"
(Proverbs 25:11).
God, give us spiritual success through silence and wise speech, solitude, and community. Amen.
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Spiritual success
"In the morning, while it was still very dark, Jesus got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed."
Mark 1:35
"Without silence, there is no solitude."
- Richard Foster
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a famous Lutheran pastor who lived in Nazi Germany during World War Two. He actively worked with the underground resistance in an effort to remove Hitler from power. He passionately believed we need both solitude and community for spiritual success. Both are essential.
There is an inseparable connection between inner silence and inner solitude. Masters of the interior life have often written of this profound truth. The purpose of silence and solitude is to be able to see and hear. They are powerful inner disciplines and help us know when to speak and when to refrain from words. There "is a time to keep silence and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes 3:7). "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver"
(Proverbs 25:11).
God, give us spiritual success through silence and wise speech, solitude, and community. Amen.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Potentially Hazardous
Every time I go to the Post Office to drop off a package, the nice people behind the counter always ask the same thing. "Anything fragile, liquid, potentially hazardous, or perishable?"
They have to ask, they have a script. They know who I am and what I do. They know I am sending books. But they always ask. "Anything fragile, liquid, potentially hazardous, or perishable?"
It's books! DUH!
But then I think. Well, fragile, no, the truth is not necessarily fragile. But these are days in which lies are told at the highest levels of government, the news media, and even the church. Whether it is Dick Cheney, or Bill O'Reilly at Fox "News," or Peter Akinola, lies are told with the authority of truth and are often swallowed whole by an uncritical public who wants to believe the worst about others, whether it is Saddam Hussein (remember weapons of mass destruction and strong ties to al Qaeda?) or liberals or gay people who just want to be an Episcopal bishop at the call of his people or even just married!
So maybe the truth is fragile, and books containing the truth about what the Bible really says about homosexuality are a fragile commodity.
Liquid? No, not even. OK.
Perishable? Well, maybe. In the same way the contents of our books can be fragile, I suppose. But I don't know about that either.
But it's that "potentially hazardous" that always gives me pause. Books are ultimately the most potentially hazardous things out there. The free exchange of ideas, the spreading of new revelations, new understandings, new facts, what could be more hazardous to the corrupt status quo? Is it no wonder that one of the common threads in totalitarian movements is the burning of books? Why do fundamentalist and conservative movements always want to ban books from schools, libraries, and stores?
What could be more hazardous to the likes of Peter Akinola than "Steps to Recovery from Bible Abuse" by Dr. Rembert Truluck?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevStepsToRecovery.html
Or “The Bible and Homosexuality,” by the Rev. Michael England?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevBibleAndHomosexuality.htm
What could be more potentially hazardous that a book of daily devotions that treats all people with the inclusive love of God, like “Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time,” by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok? http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Or “Christian with a Twist,” by Bill Gaston?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
For Presbyterians, and indeed for all people of faith, what could be more potentially hazardous than a book like “Called OUT: The Voices and Gifts of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Presbyterians,” by the Rev. Jane Adams Spahr et al?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevCalledOut.html
Or any of the books by the wonderful Rev. Chris Glaser, perhaps the best known Gay Christian writer? Chris waiting for a very long time for his Presbyterian denomination to recognize his gifts and calling until he finally accepted a call in the Metropolitan Community Churches. He is now serving as Interim Pastor of MCC San Francisco. He is a contributor to “Called Out,” and his book “Come Home! Reclaiming Spirituality and Community as Gay Men and Lesbians,” is a classic in the genre and VERY potentially hazardous to LGBT people of faith.
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevComeHome.html
What could be more potentially hazardous to the people who tell those living with HIV/AIDS that they are evil and deserve their disease, than a book by a long-term survivor of AIDS who is a healthy, vibrant, Christian minister like the Rev. Steve Pieters, still alive after over 20 years. His story is told in “I’m Still Dancing! A Gay Man’s Health Experience.” http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevImStillDancing.htm
So my frequent trips to the Post Office give me pause. When Pat or Joyce or Lawanna ask me, "Anything fragile, liquid, potentially hazardous, or perishable?" I really have to stop and think. Some times it’s easy. “No, it’s just the Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary, nothing really hazardous there!”
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa06_07.html
But some days, it’s Truluck’s book, or Glaser’s, and I have to stop and think.
And I am proud to be the publisher of books that are potentially hazardous to people who are mired in old ways of thinking and hating. The truth is hazardous. It will make you think, and it might, just might, change your life.
But I could be wrong. I’ve been wrong before.
They have to ask, they have a script. They know who I am and what I do. They know I am sending books. But they always ask. "Anything fragile, liquid, potentially hazardous, or perishable?"
It's books! DUH!
But then I think. Well, fragile, no, the truth is not necessarily fragile. But these are days in which lies are told at the highest levels of government, the news media, and even the church. Whether it is Dick Cheney, or Bill O'Reilly at Fox "News," or Peter Akinola, lies are told with the authority of truth and are often swallowed whole by an uncritical public who wants to believe the worst about others, whether it is Saddam Hussein (remember weapons of mass destruction and strong ties to al Qaeda?) or liberals or gay people who just want to be an Episcopal bishop at the call of his people or even just married!
So maybe the truth is fragile, and books containing the truth about what the Bible really says about homosexuality are a fragile commodity.
Liquid? No, not even. OK.
Perishable? Well, maybe. In the same way the contents of our books can be fragile, I suppose. But I don't know about that either.
But it's that "potentially hazardous" that always gives me pause. Books are ultimately the most potentially hazardous things out there. The free exchange of ideas, the spreading of new revelations, new understandings, new facts, what could be more hazardous to the corrupt status quo? Is it no wonder that one of the common threads in totalitarian movements is the burning of books? Why do fundamentalist and conservative movements always want to ban books from schools, libraries, and stores?
What could be more hazardous to the likes of Peter Akinola than "Steps to Recovery from Bible Abuse" by Dr. Rembert Truluck?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevStepsToRecovery.html
Or “The Bible and Homosexuality,” by the Rev. Michael England?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevBibleAndHomosexuality.htm
What could be more potentially hazardous that a book of daily devotions that treats all people with the inclusive love of God, like “Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time,” by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok? http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Or “Christian with a Twist,” by Bill Gaston?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
For Presbyterians, and indeed for all people of faith, what could be more potentially hazardous than a book like “Called OUT: The Voices and Gifts of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Presbyterians,” by the Rev. Jane Adams Spahr et al?
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevCalledOut.html
Or any of the books by the wonderful Rev. Chris Glaser, perhaps the best known Gay Christian writer? Chris waiting for a very long time for his Presbyterian denomination to recognize his gifts and calling until he finally accepted a call in the Metropolitan Community Churches. He is now serving as Interim Pastor of MCC San Francisco. He is a contributor to “Called Out,” and his book “Come Home! Reclaiming Spirituality and Community as Gay Men and Lesbians,” is a classic in the genre and VERY potentially hazardous to LGBT people of faith.
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevComeHome.html
What could be more potentially hazardous to the people who tell those living with HIV/AIDS that they are evil and deserve their disease, than a book by a long-term survivor of AIDS who is a healthy, vibrant, Christian minister like the Rev. Steve Pieters, still alive after over 20 years. His story is told in “I’m Still Dancing! A Gay Man’s Health Experience.” http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevImStillDancing.htm
So my frequent trips to the Post Office give me pause. When Pat or Joyce or Lawanna ask me, "Anything fragile, liquid, potentially hazardous, or perishable?" I really have to stop and think. Some times it’s easy. “No, it’s just the Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary, nothing really hazardous there!”
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa06_07.html
But some days, it’s Truluck’s book, or Glaser’s, and I have to stop and think.
And I am proud to be the publisher of books that are potentially hazardous to people who are mired in old ways of thinking and hating. The truth is hazardous. It will make you think, and it might, just might, change your life.
But I could be wrong. I’ve been wrong before.
Reflection, Feb. 18, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of February 18, 2007
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Powerful words
"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone."
Colossians 4:6
The other day while in town doing errands, I had my hair cut. I had made an appointment. While waiting my turn, a friendly stranger exchanged a moment of pleasant conversation. My name was called and I went to the stylist assigned to me. As she began to cut my hair, the previously pleasant stranger began complaining loudly with increasing bursts of profanity. His anger caused everyone to stop conversation and look at him. He finished his angry outburst to the store manager while calling her a number of obscenities. He was totally rude, profane, inappropriate, and intentionally hurtful. The manager treated this customer with the utmost respect and courtesy. The customer stormed out of the store while continuing to vent his frustration and anger, breathing threats to get her fired. A stunned silence followed his exit. I found myself silently breathing prayers for the angry man, and all who were unfortunate enough to meet him in his fit of rage.
While paying my bill, I gave the manager my business card. I offered to be a reference for her in this situation if the angry man made an official complaint. While preparing to leave, I thanked her for her professionalism and courtesy. Then I said, "God bless you. I hope you have a wonderful day."
Our spoken words have enormous power to harm or to heal. Chose them prayerfully when irritated or annoyed. When encountering vile language, verbal abuse, hate-filled rhetoric, and words spoken in a fit of rage, make every effort to respond courteously even to the rude, the crude, and the offensive. In doing so, your words will never return to haunt you with feelings of shame and regret. When in doubt, always err on the side of gracious speech.
God, guard my tongue and protect me from uttering hasty or thoughtless words. Help me think twice before speaking in anger. Give me new ears to hear the power of words. When I hear others responding with words of rage and hate, remind me to privately pray for them. When I speak, may my words always be seasoned with your Spirit. Amen.
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Powerful words
"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone."
Colossians 4:6
The other day while in town doing errands, I had my hair cut. I had made an appointment. While waiting my turn, a friendly stranger exchanged a moment of pleasant conversation. My name was called and I went to the stylist assigned to me. As she began to cut my hair, the previously pleasant stranger began complaining loudly with increasing bursts of profanity. His anger caused everyone to stop conversation and look at him. He finished his angry outburst to the store manager while calling her a number of obscenities. He was totally rude, profane, inappropriate, and intentionally hurtful. The manager treated this customer with the utmost respect and courtesy. The customer stormed out of the store while continuing to vent his frustration and anger, breathing threats to get her fired. A stunned silence followed his exit. I found myself silently breathing prayers for the angry man, and all who were unfortunate enough to meet him in his fit of rage.
While paying my bill, I gave the manager my business card. I offered to be a reference for her in this situation if the angry man made an official complaint. While preparing to leave, I thanked her for her professionalism and courtesy. Then I said, "God bless you. I hope you have a wonderful day."
Our spoken words have enormous power to harm or to heal. Chose them prayerfully when irritated or annoyed. When encountering vile language, verbal abuse, hate-filled rhetoric, and words spoken in a fit of rage, make every effort to respond courteously even to the rude, the crude, and the offensive. In doing so, your words will never return to haunt you with feelings of shame and regret. When in doubt, always err on the side of gracious speech.
God, guard my tongue and protect me from uttering hasty or thoughtless words. Help me think twice before speaking in anger. Give me new ears to hear the power of words. When I hear others responding with words of rage and hate, remind me to privately pray for them. When I speak, may my words always be seasoned with your Spirit. Amen.
Reflection, Feb. 11, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of February 11, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Requirements of true religion
"God has told you, O mortal, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?"
Micah 6:8b
I often feel I fall far short of God's requirements. Micah shows us how our hearts should respond to God. We are taught what is good and required from Torah (Old Testament law). Rather than be rigidly legalistic and dogmatic in matters of organized religion and social concerns, we are to live Torah from our hearts.
Jesus certainly made this clear to the religious leaders of his day who erred on the side of legalism, not compassion. "Woe to you, teachers of the law . . . you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness . . ."
(Matthew 23:23 NIV).
God requires we do justice as our ethical response to community living. Our actions have social
consequences. We are to love "chesed," which is the beautiful Hebrew word that translates as
"mercy." We are to freely and willingly show kindness and mercy to others. All this is humanly
impossible without spiritual humility. Mercy can change the world.
James, believed to have been one of Jesus' brothers, wrote a New Testament passage found in the epistle of James that scholars think of as linked to the words of Micah. In his letter, James emphasizes a vital spirituality that is characterized by good deeds and faith. He summarizes his brother's teachings with the statement, "[F]aith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:17 NIV). If the Hebrew Testament prophets are difficult to read and understand, consider reading the five short chapters in James. James learned true religion from his big brother, Jesus Christ. James gives us an example of what true religion should be by emphasizing the importance of both words and actions.
I often hear people say of others, "Oh, s/he is very religious." What does that mean? Do they
mean those individuals act justly, freely show mercy to others, and humbly walk with their
Higher Power?
James writes a great deal about religion. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure
and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself
from being polluted by the world" (James 1:27 NIV).
God, help me be just, kind, merciful, and humble in word and deed. Amen.
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Requirements of true religion
"God has told you, O mortal, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?"
Micah 6:8b
I often feel I fall far short of God's requirements. Micah shows us how our hearts should respond to God. We are taught what is good and required from Torah (Old Testament law). Rather than be rigidly legalistic and dogmatic in matters of organized religion and social concerns, we are to live Torah from our hearts.
Jesus certainly made this clear to the religious leaders of his day who erred on the side of legalism, not compassion. "Woe to you, teachers of the law . . . you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness . . ."
(Matthew 23:23 NIV).
God requires we do justice as our ethical response to community living. Our actions have social
consequences. We are to love "chesed," which is the beautiful Hebrew word that translates as
"mercy." We are to freely and willingly show kindness and mercy to others. All this is humanly
impossible without spiritual humility. Mercy can change the world.
James, believed to have been one of Jesus' brothers, wrote a New Testament passage found in the epistle of James that scholars think of as linked to the words of Micah. In his letter, James emphasizes a vital spirituality that is characterized by good deeds and faith. He summarizes his brother's teachings with the statement, "[F]aith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:17 NIV). If the Hebrew Testament prophets are difficult to read and understand, consider reading the five short chapters in James. James learned true religion from his big brother, Jesus Christ. James gives us an example of what true religion should be by emphasizing the importance of both words and actions.
I often hear people say of others, "Oh, s/he is very religious." What does that mean? Do they
mean those individuals act justly, freely show mercy to others, and humbly walk with their
Higher Power?
James writes a great deal about religion. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure
and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself
from being polluted by the world" (James 1:27 NIV).
God, help me be just, kind, merciful, and humble in word and deed. Amen.
Reflection, Feb. 4, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of February 4, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
The Lord's Prayer and lectio divina
Jesus taught, "Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time
of trial, but rescue us from the evil one."
Matthew 6:9-13
"Do not pray by heart, but with the heart."
-- Anonymous
Jonathan Edwards, the Puritan theologian said, "Many pray with their lips for that for which
their hearts have no desire." The Lord's Prayer is often prayed this way by many. When our hearts are not in our prayers, they lack spiritual power. One ancient way to experience spiritual empowerment is to reclaim sacred words that have become common. Many of us have memorized this prayer and can probably recite it by heart in sixty seconds. We can recite it without appreciating its full meaning.
Every element of worship is found here. We are also given six simple prayer requests to
change the world the way God wishes it to be. We experience worship, intercession, thanksgiving, and penitence. The Lord's Prayer is a spiritual heritage worthy of reclaiming for the new century. It will last throughout eternity.
During the Middle Ages, monks used to practice a spiritual discipline called lectio divina (Hall,
Thelma. "Too Deep for Words: Rediscovering Lectio Divina with 500 Scripture Texts for Prayer," p. 7.). It is one form of holy reading. They would read a passage of scripture slowly to savor the nourishing words. Then they would reread it with pauses of silence between readings. Sometimes a word or phrase would glimmer and catch a reader's attention. The reader would nurture that word throughout the day in the reader's heart and let it linger in
the soul.
Thoughtfully linger over these beautiful words from the Lord's Prayer. Reclaim your spiritual
heritage with every sentence or perhaps just one sentence at a time.
God, teach us to pray from our hearts. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are $15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Reflection, Jan. 28, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of January 28, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Praise
"I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long."
Psalm 146:2
My spiritual director once asked what my spiritual resolutions were for the new year. I piously pondered and responded, "Years ago I used to read ten chapters of scripture a day. I haven't done that for years. I'd like to resume that spiritual discipline." Her eyes twinkled as she laughed. "Ten chapters of scripture a day?" She gasped with glee. "You need to sit with ten words of scripture a day. Try praying a few words or phrases. Hold them in your heart and enjoy God."
How on earth can any of us truly enjoy God? Praise through singing is one good place to begin. When I baptized a little boy several years ago, I invited both his family and the church to teach this young child to sing before he got old enough to be self-conscious and worried about what other people think. Then we sang the beautiful hymn, "Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong. They are weak but he is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so." (Osbeck, Kenneth W. "Amazing Grace: 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions," p. 73. The author quotes Anna Warner's hymn, "Jesus Loves Me," written in 1860.)
The apostle Paul reminded the first century Colossian church, "with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God" (Colossians 3:16c). Singing praises helps us pray more fully. I have often heard it said that those who sing pray twice.
Any songs coming from our hearts are music to God's ears. Many enjoy singing scripture as a wonderful way to pray. So sing! Make up your own melodies. Sing in the shower. Sing in your car. Sing while cleaning bathrooms. Sing praises to God with gusto. God loves our joyful sounds. Sing for the rest of your precious lives. Enjoy God.
God, let psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs make beautiful music in my heart. Bless each reader with many songs of joy, gratitude, love, and peace. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice
monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho
Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank
e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Praise
"I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long."
Psalm 146:2
My spiritual director once asked what my spiritual resolutions were for the new year. I piously pondered and responded, "Years ago I used to read ten chapters of scripture a day. I haven't done that for years. I'd like to resume that spiritual discipline." Her eyes twinkled as she laughed. "Ten chapters of scripture a day?" She gasped with glee. "You need to sit with ten words of scripture a day. Try praying a few words or phrases. Hold them in your heart and enjoy God."
How on earth can any of us truly enjoy God? Praise through singing is one good place to begin. When I baptized a little boy several years ago, I invited both his family and the church to teach this young child to sing before he got old enough to be self-conscious and worried about what other people think. Then we sang the beautiful hymn, "Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong. They are weak but he is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so." (Osbeck, Kenneth W. "Amazing Grace: 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions," p. 73. The author quotes Anna Warner's hymn, "Jesus Loves Me," written in 1860.)
The apostle Paul reminded the first century Colossian church, "with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God" (Colossians 3:16c). Singing praises helps us pray more fully. I have often heard it said that those who sing pray twice.
Any songs coming from our hearts are music to God's ears. Many enjoy singing scripture as a wonderful way to pray. So sing! Make up your own melodies. Sing in the shower. Sing in your car. Sing while cleaning bathrooms. Sing praises to God with gusto. God loves our joyful sounds. Sing for the rest of your precious lives. Enjoy God.
God, let psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs make beautiful music in my heart. Bless each reader with many songs of joy, gratitude, love, and peace. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice
monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho
Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank
e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Reflection, Jan. 21, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of January 21, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Leisure
"The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, 'Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.' For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves."
Mark 6:30–32
Today's verses are the only place in the entire Bible where we find the word "leisure." It is a story some of us might not be familiar with, yet all busy people can relate to it. Crowds of people are coming and going. They are eager to experience and hear a famed speaker. They need healing and want to see miracles. They are hoping to get something they need, even if they cannot put their needs into words.
The apostles are deeply involved with the demands from the noisy and needy crowds. The apostles were people deeply committed to Jesus and his message of faith, love, and hope. They are more frequently called "disciples" in other Bible stories. They "followed" Jesus and hungrily sought his teachings. In this story, Jesus sees his apostles are exhausted and hungry. They had no leisure to even eat. So he takes them away to a deserted place to rest a short while.
Welcome to a moment of leisure. Webster's dictionary defines leisure as having freedom from responsibilities and duties. How often are we too busy with duties and responsibilities that we cannot pause to eat? Do we need to come and rest awhile in a quiet place? Let us take time to slow down today. In North America, we live in a culture of fast foods and drive-ins. Many of us eat on the run, in the car, and while continuing our work and play.
Where are you in this story?
God, bring us a few leisure moments today. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice
monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho
Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank
e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Please visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Leisure
"The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, 'Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.' For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves."
Mark 6:30–32
Today's verses are the only place in the entire Bible where we find the word "leisure." It is a story some of us might not be familiar with, yet all busy people can relate to it. Crowds of people are coming and going. They are eager to experience and hear a famed speaker. They need healing and want to see miracles. They are hoping to get something they need, even if they cannot put their needs into words.
The apostles are deeply involved with the demands from the noisy and needy crowds. The apostles were people deeply committed to Jesus and his message of faith, love, and hope. They are more frequently called "disciples" in other Bible stories. They "followed" Jesus and hungrily sought his teachings. In this story, Jesus sees his apostles are exhausted and hungry. They had no leisure to even eat. So he takes them away to a deserted place to rest a short while.
Welcome to a moment of leisure. Webster's dictionary defines leisure as having freedom from responsibilities and duties. How often are we too busy with duties and responsibilities that we cannot pause to eat? Do we need to come and rest awhile in a quiet place? Let us take time to slow down today. In North America, we live in a culture of fast foods and drive-ins. Many of us eat on the run, in the car, and while continuing our work and play.
Where are you in this story?
God, bring us a few leisure moments today. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice
monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho
Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank
e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Please visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Reflection, Jan. 14, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of January 14, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Spiritual empowerment and our human bodies
"Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?"
1 Corinthians 3:16a
How we relate to our bodies profoundly influences our spirituality, our inner wellness. Our bodies affect how we live and how we relate to one another. Spiritual empowerment involves living with our bodies one day at a time. We are embodied beings in need of sacred space. We have many emotions that are part of our body experience. For wholeness, our deep feelings need to be acknowledged, honored, and heard with loving discernment. When our feelings are too deep for words, they can help us pray. When we are teased, rejected, criticized, stressed, and exhausted, our bodies show symptoms and reflect a spiritual concern.
As a minister in the United States, most people that I encounter, young and old, sick or well, rich or poor, gay or straight, male or female, single or married, do not love their bodies. This is a significant spiritual concern. Our bodies are a sacred trust, but negative self-images often lead to subtle and overt acts of self-hatred. Our bodies need loving care and attention. We need to cherish and nurture our bodies physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in order to thrive and live up to our fullest human potential. Our bodies are God's gift to us. In sickness and in health, they help us pray. It is in God that we live and move and have our being. Our bodies require responsible stewardship for they are our portable chapels. Our bodies reflect a sacred trust. We are God's temples. God's Spirit lives in each of us. Try praying today about your body and your many feelings.
Many people do not realize that learning to live peacefully with our imperfect bodies can help us grow in inner wellness and personal empowerment. Often our first memories and awareness involve our bodies with feelings of pleasure, shame, or other emotions. We were never meant to live as disembodied people. Our bodies can help us get grounded and centered.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16).
God, help us love and nurture our bodies as precious gifts from you. Help us experience spiritual empowerment as embodied people. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on line using your credit card! http://www.chirhopress.com/
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are $15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find this book on our Web site at http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com/
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Spiritual empowerment and our human bodies
"Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?"
1 Corinthians 3:16a
How we relate to our bodies profoundly influences our spirituality, our inner wellness. Our bodies affect how we live and how we relate to one another. Spiritual empowerment involves living with our bodies one day at a time. We are embodied beings in need of sacred space. We have many emotions that are part of our body experience. For wholeness, our deep feelings need to be acknowledged, honored, and heard with loving discernment. When our feelings are too deep for words, they can help us pray. When we are teased, rejected, criticized, stressed, and exhausted, our bodies show symptoms and reflect a spiritual concern.
As a minister in the United States, most people that I encounter, young and old, sick or well, rich or poor, gay or straight, male or female, single or married, do not love their bodies. This is a significant spiritual concern. Our bodies are a sacred trust, but negative self-images often lead to subtle and overt acts of self-hatred. Our bodies need loving care and attention. We need to cherish and nurture our bodies physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in order to thrive and live up to our fullest human potential. Our bodies are God's gift to us. In sickness and in health, they help us pray. It is in God that we live and move and have our being. Our bodies require responsible stewardship for they are our portable chapels. Our bodies reflect a sacred trust. We are God's temples. God's Spirit lives in each of us. Try praying today about your body and your many feelings.
Many people do not realize that learning to live peacefully with our imperfect bodies can help us grow in inner wellness and personal empowerment. Often our first memories and awareness involve our bodies with feelings of pleasure, shame, or other emotions. We were never meant to live as disembodied people. Our bodies can help us get grounded and centered.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16).
God, help us love and nurture our bodies as precious gifts from you. Help us experience spiritual empowerment as embodied people. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on line using your credit card! http://www.chirhopress.com/
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are $15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find this book on our Web site at http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com/
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Saturday, January 6, 2007
Reflection, Jan. 7, 2007
Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of January 7, 2007
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Breath prayers
"Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving."
Colossians 4:2
Today I feel spiritually exhausted. I am weary of "doing prayer." Too many words feel like a grocery list to God. Why can I not simply be in holy presence without words? The ancients understood "God is closer than our breathing, nearer than our hands and feet" (Wuellner, Flora Slosson. "Prayer and Our Bodies," p. 36. Wuellner describes this as "beautiful words of an old prayer." She does not attribute the phrase to any particular person.) Perhaps answers are found in simple breath prayers of the heart. Sometimes all we can do is breathe. When life is chaotic, confusing, and painful, anything else is too difficult.
I have heard it said that there is no such thing as a little prayer. Oh God, teach me to pray! I sometimes wonder if God hears and if prayers make a difference. I wonder how to pray, for often I feel so inadequate even though I own dozens of books about prayer. The Internet also offers many spirituality Web sites eager to tell me how to pray. Why must prayer be so confusing? How can it be simplified? I think the answer is through breath prayers.
We must breathe everywhere we go. Breath prayers can travel with us everywhere, and help create an awareness of the inner chapel of our hearts. Through breathing, we can invite the Spirit to go deeper and help us in our prayers. By paying attention to our bodies through breathing, the healing breath of life from God can enter with each inhalation. Breath prayers help us hear our hearts beating with God.
Meister Eckhart has been credited with saying, "If the only prayer we ever pray is thank you, that would be enough." Perhaps the secret of devoting ourselves to prayer with an attitude of thanksgiving is found through a breath meditation used by Thich Nhat Hanh when he is with little children. Wherever they go, he teaches them to breathe in the words, "Yes, yes, yes." And to breathe out, "Thanks, thanks, thanks" (Hanh, Thich Nhat. "The Long Road Turns to Joy: A Guide to Walking Meditations," p. 36.) He believes this prayer helps them respond to life, to society, and to the earth in a positive way.
Yes, yes, yes. Thanks, thanks, thanks. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on line using your credit card! http://www.chirhopress.com/
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are $15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com/
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
**********
As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.
Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.
Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.
Breath prayers
"Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving."
Colossians 4:2
Today I feel spiritually exhausted. I am weary of "doing prayer." Too many words feel like a grocery list to God. Why can I not simply be in holy presence without words? The ancients understood "God is closer than our breathing, nearer than our hands and feet" (Wuellner, Flora Slosson. "Prayer and Our Bodies," p. 36. Wuellner describes this as "beautiful words of an old prayer." She does not attribute the phrase to any particular person.) Perhaps answers are found in simple breath prayers of the heart. Sometimes all we can do is breathe. When life is chaotic, confusing, and painful, anything else is too difficult.
I have heard it said that there is no such thing as a little prayer. Oh God, teach me to pray! I sometimes wonder if God hears and if prayers make a difference. I wonder how to pray, for often I feel so inadequate even though I own dozens of books about prayer. The Internet also offers many spirituality Web sites eager to tell me how to pray. Why must prayer be so confusing? How can it be simplified? I think the answer is through breath prayers.
We must breathe everywhere we go. Breath prayers can travel with us everywhere, and help create an awareness of the inner chapel of our hearts. Through breathing, we can invite the Spirit to go deeper and help us in our prayers. By paying attention to our bodies through breathing, the healing breath of life from God can enter with each inhalation. Breath prayers help us hear our hearts beating with God.
Meister Eckhart has been credited with saying, "If the only prayer we ever pray is thank you, that would be enough." Perhaps the secret of devoting ourselves to prayer with an attitude of thanksgiving is found through a breath meditation used by Thich Nhat Hanh when he is with little children. Wherever they go, he teaches them to breathe in the words, "Yes, yes, yes." And to breathe out, "Thanks, thanks, thanks" (Hanh, Thich Nhat. "The Long Road Turns to Joy: A Guide to Walking Meditations," p. 36.) He believes this prayer helps them respond to life, to society, and to the earth in a positive way.
Yes, yes, yes. Thanks, thanks, thanks. Amen.
Grace and peace,
Chi Rho Press
Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on line using your credit card! http://www.chirhopress.com/
"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each, plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are $15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm
Subscribe to the Chi Rho Connection, our free twice monthly electronic newsletter, and this Chi Rho Reflection, our weekly meditation, by sending blank e-mail to mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
And visit our new blog at http://chirhopress.blogspot.com/
To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
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