I find it interesting that in the workplace, our value as an employee is more so a perceived value rather than a measured record of outcomes. Visual indicators of "busyness" contribute more to our perceived value than actual accomplishments. Do you leave the office late? Do you send emails on the weekend? Do you regularly decline meetings because you have too much to do? Then you must be doing a lot of good for the company. Do you read a book at lunch? Do you leave work on time? Then you could be doing more for the company. .
During the daily devotions of “Lectio 365” for 28-30 March, the focus was on a particular piece of music: The "Miserere Mei Deus" by Italian composer Gregorio Allegri. The title means, “Have mercy on me, O God”, and is based on Psalm 51, a penitential psalm of King David.
A key insight for Palm Sunday is offered in the book: The Last Week: What the Gospels Really Teach about Jesus's Final Days in Jerusalem, by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan. They speak of two processions that entered Jerusalem. From the east, Jesus rode down from the Mount of Olives, proclaiming a new kingdom of peace.
Ever since the scientific revolution of a few hundred years ago, humankind has become increasingly enamoured with the SEEN world, and dismissive of the UNSEEN world. What is REAL, is thought to be found only in that which can be rationally explained or scientifically proven. The UNSEEN world is written off as myth or fairy-tale.
How many times have I slaved to get something done on a project that is not part of my job description, critical to the success of the project, my manager has no idea what I have even done, and at the end of it all.... nothing
What is your picture of God? Does God like you – enough to want to be in relationship with you? Do you need to earn God’s affection? Is God’s affection and favour only available as reward for good behaviour?
Some Christians think it unfaithful to express disappointment with God. But, the Psalms are full of complaints, grievances, disappointments, and doubts, which shows that naming our disappointments is integral to the life of faith.
Work has been incredibly fast-paced this year. I have been actively trying to upskill and seek new responsibilities.
In Kirsenbosch Gardens, found in the Dell, is Colonel Bird’s bath. Built around 1811 by the Colonel, in the shape of a bird, it collects spring water and allows it to stand and clear. Originally it was piped to his house, but now it feeds the surrounding pools.
In my quiet times in the mornings, I have been enamored with the book of Romans, rereading it over and over. One of the verses that sticks in my mind each time I read it: “The righteous will live by faith.” And these questions along with it: What does it mean to be righteous? What does it mean to live in faith?