In Reference to: 19 November 1989 - DANIEL, GOD'S MAN IN THE FIELD (PART XIX)
So instead of thinking of the physical presents we get for other people, consider giving the gift of the Lord’s spiritual presence, through our words and our very lives, for that is the true gift of love.
Now THAT sage advice should get some conversation going on this list.
Hopefully, the holidays are times for family and community healing, not merely for fights (as often THEY turn a person's ethical impulses - around vegetarianism - into).
Daniel was in the 'Lion's Den' in a very real way, but many of us are 'in the lions' dean' when we field other folks' criticisms and unjust barbs and hostile arrows. Finding 'grace under fire' and a contemplative presence of mind is very much what we need, but sadly, a presence of mind that many of us find difficult to call up or call upon in the very times we need it most.
I think upon the words of they hymn by modernist Baptist minister, Harry Emerson Fosdick (Riverside Church in NYC):
God of grace and God of glory.
On thy people pour thy power;
Crown Thine ancient church’s story,
Bring her bud to glorious flower,
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,
For the facing of this hour.
He saw those words as applying to BOTH personal challenges and broad historical decisions in moments of public and global crisis.
Maynard
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