Bruce Epperly

For me, small treats include a good cup of strong coffee, sitting and reading on my porch, watching the clouds sail by, a walk on the beach, reading with my grandchildren, watching a British mystery at bedtime with my wife, and believe it or not, writing this reflection!

The late Congressman John Lewis counseled, “Make good trouble, necessary trouble, and redeem the soul of America.” What one way can you make “good trouble” to bring healing to your world?

The apostle Paul counsels the Philippians to shine like stars in the world, reflecting God’s love in their values and behavior (Phil 2:15).

This morning on my walk I encountered two adult and two young deer. Not wanting to disturb their breakfast, I stopped in my tracks and simply watched, feeling a kinship with my nonhuman neighbors.

Letting go can be painful. But what horizons beckon you forward? What physical or spiritual decluttering is necessary for you to embrace new possibilities?

The late United Nations Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold prayed, “For all that has been: Thanks! For all that shall be: Yes!” It is an expression of gratitude in spite of life’s challenges.