Today’s Reflection
As a meditation skeptic, I needed to take a deep dive into this ancient-practice-turned-modern-craze. I needed to ask questions and to study meditation from a biblical, historical, theological, and evidence-based perspective to be convinced of its utility for Christians. And like the good Sunday-school student that I was, I remembered that the answer to every question begins with “Jesus!” So that’s where I started.
—J. Dana Trent, One Breath at a Time: A Skeptic’s Guide to Christian Meditation (Upper Room Books, 2019)
Today’s Question
How might you start with “Jesus!” as you seek answers to your questions about faith practices? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
Early in the morning, well before sunrise, Jesus rose and went to a deserted place where he could be alone in prayer.
—Mark 1:35 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
Spirit of God, comfort and renew us with each breath we take. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
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Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
4 Comments
I don’t have questions about faith practices. I’m working this morning on the worship service for January 30th so our technician can be prepared. Another cold day to start, its 7 going up to 27.
Except for heating bills, I like cold weather, walked in it yesterday and expect to do that again today.
My article and accompanying photos have been sent to the editor. Should come out in the March issue.
Not so many posts to see, but glad to see something from everyone. Prayers for Julie’s stress, hope you can be settled without going to the hospital. Thankful that Ally has a. way to handle days when she feels weak. I would enjoy those activities too. Prayers for Larry and the condo sale, glad for pizza and golf in Hawaii on tv. Jill, despite the cold weather that stopped outdoor walks, has been busy, off to the states in tennis, positives despite the pandemic, visit with college friend, watching godson’s basketball, study of Luke, and Roger’s slow but steady progress dealing with diabetes. Continued prayers for health, well-being, less stress, positive results with legal issues, and thanks for the blessings of the day. Thank You, Lord.
I enjoy listening to podcasts and reading things which cause me to think. I might ultimately come to the conclusion that I disagree with the speaker/author, or that I can’t buy into their statements. But, when I hold it up to the light of Christ and to the Bible – that must be the final authority. I appreciate the brain exercise and feel we must challenge things, not merely accept them.
I must be getting older (of course), but I couldn’t get up the motivation to run outside this morning…this time my excuse being the wind. I WILL be out there tomorrow morning.
Unfortunately I didn’t connect with my college friend last evening. She had to take her dad for some testing and it took longer than hoped, so I did not see her. Was grateful to get to the game, an hour away – and home safely and not too late to bed.
Sunny again today and much more milder temps. Would like to take a walk, but have a meeting after school. So, by the time I get home, darkness will be falling and I will be ready to eat, not walk. Maybe tomorrow, or definitely this weekend – a four day weekend for me, which I am very much looking forward to.
As Jesus is the center of our faith, it makes sense to start the practice of meditation by focusing on Jesus: to look into the face of Jesus and let His love wash over me.
David is doing well. The physical therapy really helped and he gets around so much better, is transferring from sitting to standard well. E very once in awhile, he gets a little off balance but is learning to steady himself. Thank You, Lord. Jeremy is more like himself than he has been in awhile: playing, begging for treats, cuddling with Lucy, his best buddy. Me, I’m ok. Been dealing with small vessel disease symptoms since Christmas. Please pray that I get through until I can get my medicine.
Know that I value this forum and my friends here so much. Your concerns are close to my heart and I lift you up to the Lord each day. Blessings to all.
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