Friday, December 29, 2017

Daily Meditation: A Ministry that Never Ends


DAILY MEDITATION

A Ministry that Never Ends
December 29
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Reconciliation is much more than a one-time event by which a conflict is resolved and peace established. A ministry of reconciliation goes far beyond problem solving, mediation, and peace agreements. There is not a moment in our lives without the need for reconciliation. When we dare to look at the myriad hostile feelings and thoughts in our hearts and minds, we will immediately recognize the many little and big wars in which we take part. Our enemy can be a parent, a child, a "friendly" neighbor, people with different lifestyles, people who do not think as we think, speak as we speak, or act as we act. They all can become "them." Right there is where reconciliation is needed.

Reconciliation touches the most hidden parts of our souls. God gave reconciliation to us as a ministry that never ends.
Henri Nouwen
For further reflection...

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." - Galatians 6: 10 (NIV)
Your response...

What helps you move from hostility to reconciliation? Comment on this meditation.
Continue the Inspiration

Purchase your copy of Henri Nouwen's book "Reaching Out".
 
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Consider our monthly giving program to sustain the ability to extend Henri's legacy and make his work available to those who seek spiritual formation and nourishment. Click here to sign up today.
Text excerpts taken from Bread for the Journey, by Henri J.M. Nouwen, ©1997 HarperSanFrancisco. All Scripture from The Jerusalem Bible ©1966, 1967, and 1968 Darton, Longman & Todd and Doubleday & Co. Inc. Scripture chosen by L. Yeskoo.
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Thursday, December 28, 2017

Daily Meditation: Being Safe Places for Others


DAILY MEDITATION

Being Safe Places for Others
December 28
Photo courtesy of SDGimagery.com
When we are free from the need to judge or condemn, we can become safe places for people to meet in vulnerability and take down the walls that separate them. Being deeply rooted in the love of God, we cannot help but invite people to love one another. When people realise that we have no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions, that we are not trying to gain any profit for ourselves, and that our only desire is for peace and reconciliation, they may find the inner freedom and courage to leave their guns at the door and enter into conversation with their enemies.

Many times this happens even without our planning. Our ministry of reconciliation most often takes place when we ourselves are least aware of it. Our simple, nonjudgmental presence does it.
Henri Nouwen
For further reflection...

"We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you.  As a fair exchange -- I speak as to my children -- open wide your hearts also." - 2 Corinthians 6: 11, 13 (NIV)
Your response...

What attracts you to the life of courage and vulnerability that Henri describes? Comment on this meditation.
Continue the Inspiration

Purchase your copy of Henri Nouwen's book "The Inner Voice of Love".
 
Visit our Bookstore:
United States | Canada | United Kingdom
Consider our monthly giving program to sustain the ability to extend Henri's legacy and make his work available to those who seek spiritual formation and nourishment. Click here to sign up today.
Text excerpts taken from Bread for the Journey, by Henri J.M. Nouwen, ©1997 HarperSanFrancisco. All Scripture from The Jerusalem Bible ©1966, 1967, and 1968 Darton, Longman & Todd and Doubleday & Co. Inc. Scripture chosen by L. Yeskoo.
STAY CONNECTED:
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This email was sent to cbgamb@gmail.com by email_lists@henrinouwen.org |  
Update Profile/Email Address | Rapid removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | About our service provider.
Henri Nouwen Society | 214 - 95 St. Joseph Street | Toronto | ON | M5S 2R9 | Canada