Everyday Blessings INTRODUCTION January 2 & 5

A Word of Introduction

Although I’ve maintained the practice of writing a “Blessing Journal” on a weekly basis for seventeen years, the following material was developed as a way of inviting others into this discipline utilizing material that I’ve either written or worked with over the years. I hope that you will find the journey meaningful and enriching.

There are two entries for each week. The first entry is intended to begin a week, but it can be used to start a day as well. Each of these entries opens with “Words of Blessing,” which are intended to engage you in the mystery and beauty that surrounds us. These words are followed by a short poetic aphorism or image that is patterned after the Japanese haiku concept of creating a single picture or image. I’ve called these entries “Reflections.” Finally, the this portion concludes with “Something to Ponder,” which appears in the form of a question. Take these questions into your time of contemplation and let them linger for awhile.

I’ll never forget years ago sitting in a class taught by Daniel Berrigan in which he asked the question: “Who dies first… the killer or the victim?” I’ve thought about that question countless times over the years. It’s a question that has profound spiritual implications, and it continues to make its way into my heart. So sit with the question for each week, and let it work its way into the crevices of your soul much like a Zen Buddhist “koan” sits with you until you come to a place of understanding and rest. One warning: Don’t jump ahead to the “Sabbath Sunset” until the week or the day has ended. Indeed, you should already have enough material to work with from the Sabbath Sunrise entries.

Each week there will be a second meditation with a slightly different format and design. This portion begins with a passage of “Sacred Writing” or spiritual quotation designed to move you further in your reflective process. These readings are followed by a “Benediction” that should not only help you deepen your weeklong journey, but also prepare and open you for the adventures of the next week. Both the “Words of Blessing” and the “Benedictions” were originally written for corporate worship. I’ve left them in the plural as a reminder that, much like Jesus’ prayer, which begins with “our Father….,” blessings are intended to be shared in a spirit of community.

Take your time. There are not many words involved, but savor them like you would a good meal. The journey of reflection is about walking, not running… about tasting and enjoying each bite, not rushing through the meal and then burping at the end.

Blessings,
Lowell 

Monday, January 2

Words of Blessing:
     Some things have to be believed in order to be seen.
     Today may we reconnect with what we truly believe, so we are capable of noticing God’s presence in the world and within our daily lives.

 Reflection:
    Words jump from the page,
    Making their way into our hearts and minds,
    Opening new worlds within.

  Something To Ponder:
    What is one “truth” that has shaped your life?

  Personal reflection as a new day begins:

Thursday, January 5

Sacred Writing
   Jesus: “If you abide in my word, then you are truly disciples of mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” (John 8: 31-32)

What is one blessing you have experienced this week?

Benediction
   May we be guided by the light of God’s love.
   May we feel the presence of the divine in our journey.
   May our path be marked with the joy of adventure and the comfort that comes from walking in the light of God’s way.