Our appreciation just continues to grow for the Center for Action and Contemplation along with their promotion of key thinkers like Howard Thurman and Henri Nouwen. Here’s yet another example of fabulous material in the posting What is the Source of Your Joy?
In particular, these lines leap out from the CAC post
There is a strange quality of awe in their joy, that is but a reflection of the deep calm water of the spirit out of which it comes. It is primarily a discovery of the soul, when God makes known [God’s] presence, where there are no words, no outward song, only the Divine Movement. This is the joy that the world cannot give. This is the joy that keeps watch against all the emissaries of sadness of mind and weariness of soul. This is the joy that comforts and is the companion, as we walk even through the valley of the shadow of death. [1] ~ Howard Thurman
That is what the spiritual life—the life with God—is about. It is being in touch with that love that becomes joy in us…. Underneath all our fluctuations is a deep solid divine stream that is called joy. ~ Henri Nouwen
To quote Michael Card from his song – – “there is a Joy in the Journey!”
It’s not just the final destination that brings this joy-filled experience; it can happen at any time and any place. Right here. Right now.
What are some effective ways to stream joy in your existence? Does it involve silence? Nature? Community? Solitude? Touch? Scents? Sights? Sounds? Tastes?
Lectionary Texts for Sunday, June 29, 2025:
- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 and Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20
- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21 and Psalm 16
- Galatians 5:1, 13-25
- Luke 9:51-62
Know someone who might like receiving messages like this?** If so, forward this message to them and they can sign up HERE
POTENTIAL ACTIONS – FOOD INSECURITY: This season will likely find increasing numbers of folks looking for food, presenting opportunities to
- share financial and/or food offerings with a local food pantry
- check with your faith community about upcoming opportunities to feed community members
- volunteer to help with a local mobile food pantry or community dinner
- find a Little Pantry in your area and help stock it with shelf-stable food items
- accept a Call to Action item from Season of Peace devotional posting
NOTE: for those in the Cinci region, some food organizations are listed HERE
DISCIPLE PLAYBOOK HUMOR – click HERE for MORE humor, updated periodically. Included now is a grin-inducing New Bible Reading Plan (Pearls Before Swine)
STREAMING WORSHIP SERVICES – Cincinnati, Bowling Green and more!
CLICK ON ICONS BELOW FOR LINKS TO DISCIPLE PLAYBOOK PAGES ON DEVOTIONALS, PRAYERS, MUSIC, STUDY AND LOVE
