Daily Devotions and Podcasts

SCRIPTURE Psalm 19:1  The Heavens are declaring the glory of God, and their expanse shows the work of God’s hands. WORDS OF HOPE How often do you ask God to do things for you and either do not wait for God to act, or do not recognize God’s answer and blessing to you? I found a cute example of ways we expect God to respond, but miss seeing God’s answer to us: A Reflection: The person whispered, "God, speak to me." And a meadowlark sang. But the person did not hear. So the person yelled, "God, speak to me!" And the thunder rolled across the sky. But the person did not listen. The person looked around and said, "God, let me see you." And a star shone brightly. But the person did not notice. And the person shouted, "God, show me a miracle!" And a life was born. But the person did not know. So, the person cried out in despair. "Touch me God, and let me know that you are here!" Whereupon God reached down and touched the person. But the person brushed the butterfly away and walked on. Author unknown MORAL: Don't miss out on a blessing because it isn't packaged the way you expect. PRAYER God who is always near, help us to see you in the wonders you send to show us your amazing love. DEVOTION AUTHOR Jan Nunn Cathedral of Hope Volunteer

SCRIPTURE  Luke 15.16 But Jesus would often go away from the crowd to pray in quiet places. WORDS OF HOPE I recently attended something called a “new moon sound bath.” It sounds mystical, doesn’t it? It’s actually a yoga space filled with about 25 or 30 people engaging in light stretching, breathing, and the soothing tones of singing bowls. It’s relaxing and allows your mind to either engage…or wander. Occasionally, someone would fall asleep, signaled by a bit of snoring. Nobody cared. The hum and vibration from the sound bowls, chimes, and rain stick felt almost otherworldly. Those natural, non-electronic sounds, while staring quietly at the ceiling, invited a release from the noise of the day. I often find myself unable to control the moment. Too many days are filled with anxiety from listening to endless news and politics, always politics. Sometimes I wonder why I’m so drawn to that uncontrollable static in the first place. The yoga space glowed with purple and pink lighting, almost like staring into a distant galaxy. We were given permission to drift away. Only once, during one of these sessions, did someone truly doze off hard. Evidently, the release was deeply needed. Whatever worries had carried them to that moment were simply gone. The room filled with intermittent giggles before someone finally nudged them awake. A faint “sorry” was whispered, and we continued with gentle movement. The entire experience lasts only about an hour, yet it feels much longer—as though time itself briefly loosens its grip. For lack of a better description, it’s an inner-city wilderness moment. For a short while, we surrender worry, schedules, and the exhausting need to stay in control. Do you meditate or pray? In Retreats throughout the years, I’ve heard descriptions of intense meditation practiced by both Christian and Tibetan monks, and I sometimes wonder if deliberately seeking collective peace can somehow quiet the low vibration of fear and chaos around us. In a similar way, what did Jesus experience during his walks in the wilderness? Surely, away from the crowds, there was silence there. Prayer. Reflection. Release. Years ago, I walked among the giant trees in Muir Woods in California. It’s difficult to explain, but I felt a powerful vibration in my chest, almost overwhelming, as though the ancient forest itself was welcoming me into communion. Perhaps that’s why one section there is called Cathedral Grove. A posted sign read, “Enter Quietly.” Where are your Cathedral woods? Where will you give yourself permission to commune on a higher plane? When will you finally release the need to control? When you arrive at that place, a place unique to you, no one will need to tell you to “enter quietly.” PRAYER I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. Lord, guide my thoughts and keep me focused on Your truth. Amen. -Psalm 119.15 DEVOTION AUTHOR Charlie Rose Order of St. Francis and St. Clare