Light
It is not by accident that the Gospel of John hearkens back to the chaos of the primordial creation: "In the beginning was the Word...In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void and darkness was over the surface of the deep; and the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters...All things came into being by Him and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In him was life, and the life was the light of all people."(4) John's gospel presents Jesus as the one who brings order from chaos, light from darkness, just like God's action at the original creation. Out of what was formless and void order and meaning come forth. The light that comes does not simply banish the darkness; it is re-worked and re-ordered by the light. Light transforms the darkness . . .
Could God take the chaos and destruction we often see in our world and transform it with our deceptively simple, seemingly small acts of creative engagement? For those who follow Jesus, that kind of engagement with the destructive forces of the world gives witness to the reality of Jesus Christ, the Creator of life, light, goodness, and love. For the light shines in the darkness and the darkness does not overcome it. --Margaret Manning Shull, Slice of Infinity
Quiet Time
I have come to highly value my daily "quiet time." First thing in the morning, after I make our coffee, I spend about an hour in scripture, devotion, & prayer. It centers me. The devotionals I'm using this day include Day by Day in Genesis, Daily Strength for Men, Men's Devotional Bible, The Word of the Lord Grows, & Slice of Infinity.
Mental Health
This week I'm undergoing some neuro-psych testing. I had suggested to my nurse practitioner that some of my symptoms might be attributed to medication. She recommended testing before making any adjustments. I have to say that I'm not entirely sold on this approach. I underwent such testing a few years ago. The results? It confirmed my clinical depression & general anxiety disorders; also indicated mild symptoms of OCD & bipolar. Anyway, I'm not looking forward to this testing, but I will endure it & make the most of it.
No comments:
Post a Comment