Daily Bread September 14

Hold on to Your Hair!
Noelle Gaffka of Mount Pleasant, MI, USA


Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. -Luke 6:36

The stars called me outside around 3:00 a.m. They were bold and magnificent. As I stood staring up at the sparkly sky, my inner voice acknowledged the view would be better if I lowered the patio umbrella. I’m glad I listened to that inner voice, or I would have missed what came next.

Silent, enormous dark wings flew just a few feet overhead as a creature swooped down over me and then up to the roof peak. There sat a huge owl. I stood in complete awe and stared at it trying to make out every detail of its face in the dark shadows of the early morning. It never made a sound. I didn’t realize I was holding my breath until it silently flew off and I exhaled. I continued to stare at the spot it once sat for several minutes debating whether I should follow it. The smell of a nearby skunk answered that question for me.

It’s been a little while since I’ve had the privilege of being in the presence of an enormous owl. As much as it made me yearn for trees to run through, it gave me a sense of appreciation for the wildlife I do have nearby.

As I reflect on the experience, I chuckle as I think of how connected we are to creation and the Spirit that intertwines us if we listen. It was as though I could hear that Spirit say, “You think the stars are cool? Put your umbrella down and watch this! Hold on to your hair!”

Prayer Phrase

Help us see beyond our dark places and find our way closer to your loving light.

Spiritual Practice

Healing for Broken Spirits

Begin with quiet prayer. Ask God to help you detect some “sore places” in the body of Christ and God’s creation. Become aware of people who feel separated, wounded, or left out. Reflect on or write a short journal entry of healing words to at least one person who comes to mind. Ask God for words that will touch this person’s broken spirit like healing ointment. Keep this person in your heart and prayers today and act on any ideas that come to bring blessing and wholeness.

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.

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