The Sacred Intersection

Today’s Reflection

IT’S EASY TO MAKE a narcissistic career out of spiritual growth. After all, theology is fascianating. Kindred spirits are usually wonderful folks to be with; retreats are relaxing; books are compelling.

However, the beautiful process of spiritual growth moves in a cycle of blessing that doesn’t stop with me, mine, and my development. It moves outward in a dynamic flow.

As lofty as that sounds, we know from experience that sometimes decisions about where to invest our time, money, and energy can vex and overwhelm us. Ideally, our inner work energizes our outer work, and we become less attached to what others think, what they expect of us, and whether they approve of us. We become less chameleon-like in allowing others to dictate and define who we are.

Our decisions about intentional service need to emerge from a thoughtful, reflective place where we weigh the needs around us and see where they intersect with our gifts, graces, and passions. That sacred intersection points to our place of service at any given time.

– Linda Douty
Rhythms of Growth

The Gospel of John (2003 Full Movie) [HD]

Fireworks with Patriotic Music Soundtrack by U.S. Military Bands

Born on the Fourth of July (1/9) Movie CLIP - Ron Is Shot (1989) HD

You Never Let Go - Matt Redman (with lyrics)

Attitude of Gratitude in Any Circumstances

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.
 Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name.

The Spirit and Art of Conflict Transformation

LISTENING IS AN ART, a spiritual practice. … Listening speaks to one of our deepest needs, to be understood or feel understood. Yes, we might like people to agree with us, take our side, but it is a great gift when we feel that the person understands us, even if the person does not agree with us. … Listening acknowledges and honors the other’s uniqueness with his or her own stories and truths. We each need to tell our story, and we each need to hear the other’s story. Being listened to provides the opening we need to tell our stories, to express feelings and ideas we would otherwise be afraid to voice.

~Thomas Porter