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Here and Now
by Janie Buck
Date: 11.14.2009
This book, by Henri J. Nouwen, is in his own words "a long examination of conscience, an extended personal statement of faith, and a series of glimpses into the kingdom of God." He found that he was "writing about myself, my friends, and family, and my God, all connected in many intricate ways ... Much has come to my spiritual awareness during the last few years, and much appeared as new and surprising as I wrote these meditations ... I try to say things I had never said before, but things that really matter to me. I hope and pray that you who read these meditations will discover may connections with your own spiritual journey, even when that journey is very different from my own. I trust that these connections will make you aware that we are traveling together toward the Light, always encouraging each other to keep our eyes fixed on the One who is calling us home."

If his purpose catches your heart and you realize we should keep our eyes on the Lord Jesus then it will be worth the time to read this book. It is not the usual kind of book I read but a friend recommended it so I did. And I am glad. But, there are things in the book I do not like or recommend - such as non-Christians he admires and recommends. We must delineate between true Christians and those who even though sincere are sincerely wrong in who and what they worship.
PRAISE
by Janie Buck
Topic: Prayers
Date: 11.16.2009
"I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; as for me, I shall be glad in the Lord. Let sinners be consumed from the earth and the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord" (Psalm 104:33-35).

These verses outline our part and God's part. We sing praise and meditate (think about) things that will please Him. If we do joy and gladness will fill our heart. Then we pray that sinners will be "consumed from the earth and the wicked be no more" which echoes part of the Lord's prayer -"deliver us from evil".

Then we "bless the Lord!"

We are always asking Him to bless us, but here we are told to bless the Lord! How do we do that? We praise Him and give thanks. In fact we are instructed to "give thanks in all things" and this is reasonable for "all things work together for good to those who love the Lord." Therefore, we can "bless the Lord, O my soul and praise the Lord" with a grateful heart.


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