07-17-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
July 17, 2020
Scripture: Proverbs 17:22
A joyful heart helps healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.

Thought for the Day: There is a part of me that simply wishes to say, “Amen,” as I believe these words to be true. Of course, the suggestion that a joyful heart helps healing assumes illness or grief or some other form of ailment to be present. That’s where I realize that such words are usually spoken from the perspective of the healthy. In fact, some have made similar statements in hopes of squelching the sorrow or sadness being expressed by an individual. It sounds like a kind way of saying, “I don’t wish to hear your complaining.” Proverbial wisdom can speak truth, but there is a cautionary note in regard to where, when and how it is shared. For me, the first half of this Proverb is more of a mantra that I speak to myself in my own times of darkness. It is spoken again and again, and in time, a heart might not only come to believe it but to embrace the divine presence that was ever present in the darkness. That’s joy!

Prayer: Holy One, provide me a mantra, a simple word of scripture or a sacred thought onto which I can latch my heart and mind. Allow it to become a reminder of how I am forever connected to you. Amen.

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