Resurrection-Happening Every Day
Shirley Vallier Remmenga of Fort Collins, CO, USA
Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ-he is Lord of all. -Acts 10:34-36
I have a little cactus growing near my kitchen window. When I purchased it some time ago, it was a perfect flat little plant with greenish and reddish fleshy parts (modified leaves). It pleasured my eyes and heart. As time went along, the “leaves” began to shrink and die. I thought it was on its way out. However, it didn’t take long before a new little plant began to show its head. It was growing out of the dying parts. It was vigorously upright and bright green. This delighted me. As the original plant died, this new one flourished. Resurrection happened right there in that little pot.
Resurrection happens all the time. In the spring, the seemingly dead trees and grass change into living, growing leaves and blades; baby animals are birthed and populate the woods, meadows, and mountains; the boredom of winter (experienced by many people) ceases as life and energy return to the out-of-doors; old ways of thinking and doing die and new ways take their place. The list goes on and on.
Resurrection, the process of dying and being reborn, happens as we connect to, listen to, and respond to the Presence, the Holy Spirit, the God Within. We need not go searching for this Spirit because it dwells within and without and is available all the time.
Prayer Phrase
Are we moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One?
Spiritual Practice
Moving Toward the Peaceful One
As Jesus was nearing the final days of his life, he wept over the city and proclaimed, “If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace” (Luke 19:41-42).What are the things that make for peace in our lives, communities, and around the world? During the Lenten season, spend time in silent refection or journaling each day to notice: Am I moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One? Pay attention to your attitudes, actions, and relationships this day. When did you most embody the peaceful One in your daily living? When were your thoughts or actions contrary to the peace of Jesus Christ? How might Jesus, the peaceful One, who is always near to you, be inviting you to draw nearer to him through your daily living?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
