My blogging process is not complex…write a post…publish a post…think upon what the next post should be. I rarely have anything else in the creative pipeline underway. Sure, I have ideas swirling of what I would like to write about next, but I like to stay in the moment and get inspired about which specific direction to go in.
Inspiration came this past week from bloggers who wrote of their faith, as well as the tools they utilize to fuel it. And since I’ve never posted anything about religious beliefs until now, it could likely be defined as divine inspiration.
I am a person who, when finding something I like, tend to stick with it. I get laser-focus devotion to foods that taste great, tools that perform effortlessly…and words that elevate me.
I have not been to church in years, long ago assuming the title of Lapsed Methodist. Still, I pray every day, and for over twenty years two daily devotional books have been a part of those prayers. One arrived a couple of years before the other, but since they have become a pair, they have been both quite inseparable…and a wonderful part of my routine.
My parents made sure I got to church every Sunday, got to vacation bible school every Summer, and helped build a religious foundation for me. When my parents divorced some years later, looking back now I realize I simultaneously separated from my religious beliefs. And of course, when we are young, many of us think we can do it all by ourselves anyway.
When these devotionals came into my life, they pretty much represented the return of religion being important 24/7 in my life. While it may sound unusual to re-read these two books each year instead of seeking out new works, these publications have great meaning because they arrived at a period in my life when I needed to pivot, and get more serious about “walking the walk and talking the talk” with regards to living my faith.
Their continued existence, and their continuing part of my regular routine, remind me of where I was…where I am…and most importantly…where I am going. Each person believes what they choose to believe, and what or whom to believe in. All I know is when I read these short stories and the Biblical references that inspire them, they inspire me.
Hope For Each Day by Billy Graham and God’s Little Daily Devotional from Honor Books both reside in my upper left-hand desk drawer with my Bible. It only seems appropriate they all share the same space, especially since sometimes I want to “dig deeper” and reference the source material of what makes the devotionals special in the first place.
I micro-pray throughout each day, but in dedicated moments with these books I also make my intercessory prayers, praying for anyone whom I know of who is in need. I have found some points and counterpoints regarding also praying for the deceased. I don’t know how you feel about that. For me, while I understand their fates have long been determined, I still like to pray for my departed loved ones as well.
I have always subscribed to the idea of keeping a person’s memory alive in prayer, and if I am the last person here speaking their name, I enjoy that “responsibility.” And, stories and scriptures within these books remind me of the deceased as often as the living.
I have kept being devoted to these two devotionals…and kept the faith.
Pictures Courtesy Christianbook/Amazon
SDA’ers believe in soul sleep, so praying for the departed doesn’t enter into it. Personally, I’m rather glad of that. I have enough people issues in this life without worrying about all those dead people 😉
Yet, I do understand how things like that bring comfort to people. Which is why I try to restrain myself in my comments on posts like this 😀
I am glad that you reading something by Graham. He was America’s conscience for decades. I miss him still…
Thanks, Mr. B. And, I agree with you on Graham.
(Of the 2 texts) “Their continued existence, and their continuing part of my regular routine, remind me of where I was…where I am…and most importantly…where I am going.” Def makes sense to keep what instructs in those three areas handy at all times!
I love the idea of favoring the ‘one’ over the many too. Tis nobler IMO to know one or two texts well.
I attended Mass for the departed November 1, but it had been a while. And I learned something from The Priest’s sermon. He said, “keep praying for the deceased” because ‘we never know for sure if they made it to Heaven. They could be waiting. So good of you to pray for them! My sister (roommate) and I do too every night.
Thanks, E.F. It is nice to know you and your sister are of the same mind as I on that subject.
Def heard of Billy Graham too btw. Putting a save card on this book👍
I am sure you will find it beneficial, E.F.👍
I have my daily devotionals, and they really help keep me centered. As for praying for the deceased, the Episcopal church (which I belong to) does that, sort of, in the weekly “prayers of the people” on Sunday. I think it’s more of a comfort to friends and family rather than a belief we can change the deceased’s fate. I like it.
Thanks, Belinda. Glad you feel that way about devotionals and those prayers of comfort.
You’ve probably heard/saw me use this John Lennon quote before, but here it is again: “Whatever gets you through the night it’s alright.” As you describe how you got to these volumes, each person has their way to what works for them. It is hard for me to pin it down that way. When I do, I think of faces and people who were there for me at just the times I needed them. I think of that poem, “A Psalm of Life.” I think of certain songs. Thank you for sharing your experiences about it, Bruce.
Thanks, Lisa. Everybody finds their own way, and John’s quote fits nicely.
You’re welcome.
Lapsed Methodist, meet lapsed Catholic. I have not been to church in more years than I can remember. Same goes for my kids. But the Catholic foundation they and I had somehow sticks with us. Little things show and I have to believe God is OK with that. Praying for the dead. Absolutely. To them and for them. Thank you for keeping the faith, Bruce.
Thanks, Lois. I believe God is more than OK with that.
Whatever intelligent I have to say on this was said in the comment by Lois.
True story: Press box at Cincinnati Reds home game in the 1970s. Loooooong rain delay. Seemed to rain harder as time went by. It was getting on at least 2 hours. A rookie sportswriter turned to a veteran, crusty baseball beat scribe and said, “Geez, it seems like it will never stop.” The scribe replied, “I believe the record is 40 days and 40 nights.”
Thanks, Mark. And, that scribe produced some biblical wisdom…for a biblical rain.
I was never introduced to, taught about or exposed to a formal religion but did explore the Bible many times on my own growing up. I would say my POV doesn’t align with the majority regarding God, the teachings of the Bible and most forms of religious practice yet I fully respect your interest and desire to start your day with study and words that bring comfort and inspiration to your life Bruce. I hope that now especially you are finding wisdom as you read each day. We all need that as a society right now.
Thanks, Deb. We do all need that as a society right now.
I love your practice of keeping watch for the departed – “and if I am the last person here speaking their name, I enjoy that “responsibility.” I have three devotionals that I read year after year. It’s funny that I still find new angles to ponder. Thanks for this beautiful post about your practices, Bruce!
Thanks, Wynne. I like the way you phrased that – new angles to ponder!
Can’t say I’m that religious or have ever prayed much. But I’ve had people tell me they’re praying for me, so that’s got to be worth something. Or maybe it’s just a sign of the trouble I’m in . . .
Well, whatever the genesis is for their prayers for you…take the win…!
Great post, Bruce. Lapsed Methodist here as well, lacking a clear explanation for the lapse. Seems like you have given up organized religion but still have a robust spiritual life. I love that you pray for the dead. I sometimes just talk right to the dead. They never talk back but sometimes I just feel presence. Still with me, somehow.
Thanks, Amy. I do have that robust yet “non-organized” life. I love your attitude towards the deceased.
I fall into the category of lapsed Caholic. My upbringing was similar to yours (church every week, Catechism classes, etc.) as my parents were 100% on board. I’ll give them credit because they they weren’t “for show” church people. They lived solid Christian lives and set a wonderful example for their four sons. After my Dad passed, I brought my mom to church regularly, but honestly that was more out of trying to be a good son than my strong religious beliefs. Like many people, I question things about the faith. I still believe in God and live a Christian life, following many of the teachings. (Do unto others. . . ) is at the top of my list. What bothers me the most about some religions is how hypocritical they can be in terms of supposedly loving their brothers and sisters, yet can turn around and find reasons to exclude somebody who is “different,” be it their color, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, wealth, religion, or the countless other ways people try to divide us.
Thanks, Pete. For myself, I eventually carved out a spiritual life without the need to re-enter organized religion, and agree with you about some of them picking and choosing who is worthy (or not) of their membership. That’s not my idea of being religious.
Big smiles here, Bruce. I’m much like you, grew up going to church (but not now), and have kept my faith. These two books sound wonderful.
Thanks, Jennie.😃Smiling back.
😀
Yeah, it seems to me like once religions become “organized,” the pure, true spirit of them (usually) becomes convoluted and strays far from their core beginnings and purpose. Having our own practices and routines at home or wherever…to me that makes perfect sense and is pretty damn wise too! I remember climbing trees as a kid and swaying in the branches in the wind, listening to the sound and staring at the sky through light-dappled leaves. The sense of peace and feeling of oneness with the world was a communion of sorts that I’ll never forget, and it really can be accomplished almost anywhere, can’t it? 🙂
I’m not climbing any trees anymore…but I still find listening to the sound of the branches and wind, looking at the sky through sun-splashed leaves…as good a place for communion as any.🙂
I’m not a religious person at all, Bruce, and somehow I’m surprised when someone is. But I understand how these books and your prayers have been a steady source of reflection for you. There’s so much value in that practice, regardless of the spiritual source. In a chaotic world that seems so reactionary, that quiet “space” is sacred. That’s the impression I got from your post anyway. Forgive me if I’m completely off base. Thanks for sharing this about you.
Your impression is very much “on base,” Diana. In fact, I like the picture you painted of it being a sacred, quiet “space” when I spend time with these books. It really is, both physically and mentally. It’s pausing the chaos that swirls about, and reading takes place in a specific place…at my desk and in my mind. Thank you for stopping by.
I’m glad that resonated. 😀
🙂
I was raised Catholic went to church every Sunday and Holy Day Then married into a very strict religious family .Raised my kids that way and with that said and divorced 4 years I’ve gone back to church once with a friend introducing me to the church they go to and Spiritual I am and I still say my prayers I have not been back .My kids adults sadly dont go and I say sadly because my in-laws being so overly strict with this it turned them away from going and being adults it is not my place to tell them what or shouldn’t do. I applaud you and let us know how you like Billy Grahams words. Please keep us all posted.
I know of several families where the parents still attend organized services, but the children do not. My mother ceased going to church after her divorce, but she remained a religious woman. I think she was at peace with my decision to stop going to church at that time, knowing she had at the very least given me years towards a foundation in faith.
I like how you stated that with the foundation that is how I feel with my children on it .
I was raised a Christian and mom made sure I went as well. Then when I grew of age I stopped going. We had Bailey, my son, in 2000 and in 2012 he came up and asked me…Dad, are we ever going to go to Church? That made me think…we looked for a church to go to (and didn’t like many) until we went to my old one…we loved it and have been going ever since. It has a total of around 18 people on a good day. It’s a small country church. It’s helped us greatly.
It’s a pain at times going but I guess sacrifice is all part of it.
I’m glad it has returned to you.
Max, your church situation sounds like the one my wife belonged to before we met. Even though it was in NE Philly, it had a small but loyal congregation. Love the fact you found a great place to worship.
Yes…it really helped me mentally. I always believed in God…that was no question but having somewhere to go to with likeminded people really helps. I think it helps us stay on the right course as well. Thats us though…we tend to put off things and not do well unless we have a goal.
Thanks for sharing your personal experience, Bruce. I’m all for re-reading (or rewatching) things. I know what works for me, and what does not trigger me (at this point, it’s hard to find books or shows that do not trigger me, unfortunately). Besides, if I liked something, it’s well worth doing it again. There’s usually something new hiding in a corner too. Hugs.
Thanks, Teagan. I like that…usually something new hiding in a corner! Hugs.
A simple faith without getting involved in the many religious institutions which end up far from the preachings of Jesus standing in the open air and welcoming any human.
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An interesting post, Bruce. I grew up with Billy Graham on the radio and in the news. He was as solid and unique spiritually as anyone I know. We are part of a vibrant and very active Methodist Church here at Weddington, NC. With four morning services they have something to offer everyone. We find the traditional service very inspiring.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Dwight! I never heard Billy on the radio, but so grateful I got to see him on TV many times during his career.
It’s fascinating to hear about your beliefs and how those two books stuck with you for so many years. It’s definitely important for everyone to nourish those reflections about their own beliefs as life goes on, especially when no one has the same upbringing. Thanks for sharing this with your readers, Bruce !
Thank you so much, Lashaan…that comment made my day!