“Choose God alone, and only God, so that neither your mind nor your will seek anything other than God.”
~The Cloud of Unknowing
Reflection:
What desires or attachments might be drawing my attention away from seeking God above all else?
Scripture:
“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
— Matthew 6:33
There is no
sin too great
that he will not forgive
if we repent
from evil
giving our life to him
no matter how far
we have gone
he awaits our return
our heavenly father
whose love is patient
abundant
and never withdrawn
~Robert Van Valkenburgh
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him.”
~Proverbs 24:17-18
Like the leaves
on a forest tree
waving in the breeze
we all fall
someday
as the seasons change
our grip to the past
loosens
inevitably
we must give in
to what is to come
falling to earth
becoming one
with the soil
we do not die
we transform
~Robert Van Valkenburgh
“Devote yourself often to prayer.”
~Benedict of Nursia
Pray you do not
allow anger
to become your God
the idol
to whom you bow down
and worship
the master
whom you serve
in all things
who rules over your thoughts
words and actions
pray you do not
give in to temptation
allow God to be God
pray to him
to teach you to love
for it is only in love
that you will know peace
~Robert Van Valkenburgh
“Look upon yourself as the servamt of all: see Christ in others and you will show them respect and reverence.”
~Teresa of Avila
My heart grieves
O Lord
I am restless
and filled with worry
though you have proven
time and time again
that your faithfulness
is perfect
your plan
is righteous
and your love
knows no bounds
nor limitations
I struggle in this moment
to understand
take me into your arms
O Lord
teach me once again
that I have nothing to fear
in and with you
~Robert Van Valkenburgh
“Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil. Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.”
~Ephesians 4:26-27, 29
May we pray
for those who sleep
for those whose hearts
are hardened
with anger and fear
who cannot hear
the call of the Lord
nor see his ways
do not be afraid
He whispers
I am here
my beloved
arise from your slumber
walk with me
and though the world
may mock and scorn
or even kill you
walk with me
I am here
~Robert Van Valkenburgh
Grappling With Divinity 