Message of 6-9-15

Published: Tue, 06/09/15

Message of the Day

The reason we are not fully at ease in heart and soul is because we seek rest in these things that are so little and have no rest within them, and pay no attention to our God, who is Almighty, All-wise, All-good, and the only real rest.
- Julian of Norwich

(God as "the only real rest." Take some time today to simply relax in God's loving gaze upon you.)

Daily Readings

2 COR 1:18-22; PS 119:129-133, 135; MT 5:13-16

R. Lord, let your face shine on me.

Wonderful are your decrees;

therefore I observe them.

The revelation of your words sheds light,

gives understanding to the simple.

I gasp with open mouth

in my yearning for your commands.

Turn to me in pity

as you turn to those who love your name.

Steady my footsteps according to your promise,

and let no iniquity rule over me.

Let your countenance shine upon your servant,

and teach me your statutes.

USCCB Lectionary

Reflection on the Scriptures

Jesus used the image of light and a lamp to further his illustration of God's transforming work in and through us. Lamps in the ancient world served a vital function, much like they do today. They enable people to see and work in the dark and to avoid stumbling. The Jews also understood "light" as symbol or expression of the inner beauty, truth, and goodness of God. In his light we see light ( Psalm 36:9). His word is a lamp that guides our steps (Psalm 119:105). God's grace not only illumines the darkness in our lives, but it also fills us with spiritual light, joy, and peace.

Jesus used the image of a lamp to describe how his disciples are to live in the light of his truth and love. Just as natural light illumines the darkness and enables one to see visually, so the light of Christ shines in the hearts of believers and enables us to see the heavenly reality of God's kingdom. Our mission is to be light-bearers of Jesus Christ so that others may see the truth of the gospel and be freed from the blindness of sin and deception.

There is great freedom and joy for those who live in the light of God's truth and goodness. Do you know the joy and freedom of living in God's light?

"Lord Jesus, you guide me by the light of your saving truth. Fill my heart and mind with your light and truth and free me from the blindness of sin and deception that I may see your ways clearly and understand your will for my life. May I radiate your light and truth to others in word and deed".

- from dailyscripture.net

SPIRITUAL READING

On Spiritual Direction
- by Philip St. Romain, M.S., D. Min.
Excerpted from Handbook for Spiritual Directees

http://shalomplace.com/view/handbook.html

The Agenda in Spiritual Direction (part 2)

We have already noted that a spiritual director is not a guru who will tell you what to do and what not to do. I would also like to make a distinction between a spiritual director and a sponsor in a Twelve Step program. A sponsor is one who has been in such a program for some time and can help new people learn how to recover from addictive involvements by using the Twelve Steps. This is a form of spiritual companionship, to be sure, but I recommend that your spiritual director be more than just a “big buddy” for the spiritual journey.

see http://shalomplace.com/direction for more info about spiritual direction.

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