DailyConnections.net

MONDAY THOUGHT 2/6/12

SURPRISED BY LOVE

I would awake every morning, open my eyes and (at least now that I have given up alcohol), smile and say: “Thank you, Lord, for the gift of this day … for my faith, for my forgiveness, for my family, for my friends.”  I never thought about love, I mean God’s love.  Seriously.  It just never crossed my mind. 

Then one recent morning, as I awoke, without thinking, out of my mouth popped the words, “Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your love.”  I was floored and have pondered the meaning (I mean the real meaning) of those words since.  I mean, I have no idea how or why God would love me.  Plus, how do I respond?  How do I love God back?  This is going to take some time.  Seriously. 

My point:  Sure, it’s the obvious:  God loves us.  Yes?  Go on.  And that means … what?  All I do know is that pretty much every day, every bend in the road brings some new terrain to enjoy, absorb, ponder, and experience on this wondrous faith adventure I am traveling and travailing.  So, God loves me.  Hmmm.  Why had I never thought of that before?

I now greet every morning with the words, “Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your love.”  It’s sort of like an umbrella prayer; it covers everything:  His gift of faith, his gift of health, his gift of forgiveness, his gift of family, friends and other loved ones.  Though far from perfectly, I am starting to understand that it’s not about MY blessings, but about HIS gift of my blessings.  Hmmmm.  As I said, this will take some pondering.  Have a joyful, wondrous day as you travel down your own faith journey road.   God has already blessed you.  All you have to do is open your eyes, look around, and then say “Wow” and “Thank you, Lord.”     

John Ingrisano   

DailyConnections
209 Church Street
Algoma, WI 54201
(920) 559-3722
February 6, 2012

FRIDAY THOUGHT 2/3/12

SOLITUDE 

I work alone, live alone, travel alone.  Writing is a solitary job, and I work out of my home.  I also travel a lot these days.  (A recent three-week seminar schedule covers a lot of territory: Tampa, Nashville, Houston, Washington, D.C., Dallas, Indianapolis, Chicago.)  Yes, I admit it, there are times when I get lonely.  Still …. 

Superman had his Fortress of Solitude.  Jesus would retreat to the hills or desert now and then to pray and be alone.  I understand that need.  I love people, and I have loving friends and family throughout the country and overseas.  And I meet new, spiritually enriching people every day.  But I also have grown to love, cherish, and appreciate my solitude.  I love it not for the aloneness, but for the opportunity it brings me to enjoy the closeness to my own spirit and my relationship with God.  In this respect, you could say that God is my traveling companion, and He’s darn good company.

My point:  We all have times in our lives when we are alone, either by choice or circumstances.  Enjoy the time to better get to know yourself and your Lord. – jri

I know people who are terrified of being alone.  They have to call someone, put up noise by scanning the radio or television dial, rush out to the mall, a restaurant, or a bar.  Being alone can be scary.  It is also an opportunity.  The next time you are alone, try just sitting.  Again, just sitting, not doing, not problem solving, not making a mental to-do list … but just being.  Or if you feel the need to fill the void, start a conversation with God by saying, “Hi, God, what’s new?”  May you be blessed this day with the vision to see and appreciate your blessings. 

John Ingrisano

Daily Connections

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

February 3, 2012

FRIDAY THOUGHT 1/27/12

GOOD DAY … BAD DAY

I don’t know about you, but every day, I tend to judge and assess the day.  I do this by myself, as well as when anyone asks, “How are you today?” as I go through some mental left-side, right-side inventory of good stuff, bad stuff.     

But isn’t every day a blessing, a gift from God?  Sure, we may not always see it as such (this past month, one friend had a stroke, another was diagnosed with leukemia, so I suspect neither one of them is all that thrilled with these blessings), but it is all in God’s hands.  If He is good, He is good all the time.  So, even if something makes no sense to us, that does not mean that it makes no sense.

My point:  That’s where trust comes in, pure and simple faith in God and His promise.  So, maybe we need to stop judging the days that God gives us.  They’re all God’s days, and they’re all blessings.  – jri

I have a melancholy streak that runs through me.  I get that from my father.  (This is often at conflict with the joy I get from my mother’s temperament.)  So, once in a while I get the blues, a sadness that washes over me.  However, I have learned – correction, God has taught me – to just sit tight and trust.  I’ve also learned that these blue times can become days of reflection, of special closeness to God.  (These contrast with the good-morning-God-thanks-for-everything-gotta-go-bye days of rushing around.)  So, even a bout of melancholy now and then makes sense, has a purpose, is in fact a blessing.  May you enjoy your blessings today, even those that seem like very unlikely ones.      

John Ingrisano

Daily Connections

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

January 27, 2012

MONDAY THOUGHT 1/23/12

THE OOPS PRAYER

This is a bit of a giggler:  The other day I was getting into my car and griping about feeling alone and abandoned.  Aloud, I said, “Well, God, I guess it’s just you and I, and I’m not all that sure about You at times.” 

At that exact moment, I heard a tinkling sound and knew instantly that an aluminum cross I carry in my left pocket had fallen out onto the garage floor.  As I got out and picked it up, still in a lousy mood, I said, “Real funny, God,” and then I smiled and started laughing, as I heard His voice in my head:  “All we’ve been through, all I’ve done for you, answering every prayer, and blessing you in ways you could never envision, and you say, ‘and I’m not all that sure about You at times’”?  (By the way, no, I do not believe that God speaks to me directly; however, I do know that He enlightens my thick-headed spirit at times.  I just add the words.) 

My point:  First, we are not alone.  If we let Him, our God will always be close to us, always.  (And, yes, sometimes I think He is too close, hearing all the whiny, dumb stuff that escapes my lips.)  Second, I bet He gets tired of hearing us complain every time we don’t get exactly what we want … and every time we do, too. – jri

What made me grin and giggle the most as I drove down the road with my tiny aluminum cross in my hand was the quiet way God had winked at me.  Not a boom; not a swift kick in the butt; but an almost imperceptible tinkling sound of the cross hitting the garage floor.  Funny God we have.  I am grateful that He is so patient with clay-footed whiners like me.    May this day be filled with joy and a keen awareness of God’s presence in you and near you. 

TUESDAY THOUGHT 1/17/12

THE TIM TEBOW EFFECT

Denver Broncos Quarterback Tim Tebow has stirred up a lot of controversy this year with his on-his-sleeve Christian faith.  I have no opinion either way about the man, except that (A) he seems genuine in his faith, the expression of which is tasteful and humble, in spite of how naysayers want to pretend otherwise; (2) hooters and mockers have delighted in, well, hooting and mocking; and (3) those same hooters and mockers have done soooooo much to further the cause of faith in this country.  Kind of funny, really.

For example, it used to be that, every now and then, some lone soul would hold up a sign at a sporting event that read “John 3:16.”  These days, in small part due to Tebow, and  in large part due to his critics, every National Football League fan knows the reference.  Let’s say that number is 40 million people (and, yes, I’m just making that number up).  Let’s say that just five percent, or two million, people actually crack a Bible and look into it.  Of that two million, let’s say about ten percent, or 200,000, keep on reading and maybe, just maybe, find faith.  Not bad.

My point:  It just tickles me how one man who quietly kneels to thank God (no, not for victory, but for his ability to do his best) can have his words and his ways carried on the shoulders of others … some believers, many not. – jri

Reminder:  We are not in charge.  What a great feeling to ask God to guide us in our decisions, our work, and our attitudes each day … and then just let it go.  Trust.  So, let go and let God.  He is in charge, and He will take us where and to whom he knows is best.  Have a joy-filled day. 

John Ingrisano

Daily Connections

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

January 17, 2012

MONDAY THOUGHT 1/16/12

FEAR 

I met a man the other night who admitted he lives in almost constant fear of practically everything:  cold-sweat dread of life, of uncertainty, perhaps even of God.

I know he’s not alone.  I’ve had this conversation with others.  I’ve been there, too.  In fact, I think I have it right when I say we are all pretty much afraid.  I’m especially puzzled/amazed/interested in those who deal with their fears by surrounding themselves with things, especially wealth, toys, ideas/philosophies, and busyness.  They/we keep trying to outrun, dodge, ignore those fears.  Ain’t gonna happen.

My point:  Nobody knows tomorrow.  That is the prime uncertainty in our lives.  I’m no brainiac, but I do know that the future will come, that it is really not even close to being in our hands or our control, that God is in charge (of this we can be certain), and that we might as well not worry about tomorrow, but just enjoy the blessings of this day.  –  jri

 I also know a few folks who have a fear of God.  This is the gonna-get-you god many of us learned about in our youth.  Many of us were taught that if we didn’t behave (sit still in church,  say our prayers at night, etc.) we were going to be punished.  Over the years, I got tired of being brow beaten by a mean god.  I now understand God based on the loving way to raise children.  Sure, there are times when they need a stern talking to, a time out (I hate that term) or a good swat on the backside.  But it’s not about punishment, but about love … at least if we’re doing it right.  That’s how I see God, as a loving, caring, now-and-then-butt-swiping parent who loves us beyond our ability to ever understand … and who would do (and has done) anything for us.  So, have a joy-filled day, and just enjoy (fear-free and guilt-free) the love God showers upon us each day.  God bless.

 John Ingrisano

Daily Connections

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

January 16, 2012

FRIDAY THOUGHT 1/13/12

BELIEVING HAS ZILCH TO DO WITH SEEING

I woke up this morning – remembering who I am, where I’ve been in the past, and where and what I am now – and I laughed and said, “Thank you, Lord.”  It made me realize that some of my friends, the skeptics, probably think I have an imaginary friend.  No, not imaginary; just not visible.

It reminds me of a friend who is color blind.  When we’ve been out on Lake Michigan heading back from fishing, he asks me to keep an eye out for the red lighthouse at the entrance to the Algoma Harbor.  Even though this is a bright, free-standing, mid-size structure, impossible to miss, red does not show up on his visual pattern.  He does not see it. 

My point:  Seeing has zilch, zippo, nada to do with believing.  Though there are days when I have my doubts, God is real to me.  I can feel Him, sense His presence.  He’s there.  I know that, for me, it’s just a matter of opening my heart – not just my eyes – to experience Him. – jr

Like the Butterfly Effect (the theory has it that butterflies flapping their wings in California can impact a weather change in Asia), we do not always see the results of the things we do.  The other day I got a call from an ex-wife.  She shared with me that she was celebrating 16 years of sobriety, and she wanted to thank me for helping her take the initial steps.  That reminded me that everything we do matters.  So, make every breath, every word, every thought, and every prayer count.  Have a joy-filled day, aware of  the rich blessings God has presented you with this day.       

John Ingrisano

Daily Connections

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

January 13, 2012

TUESDAY THOUGHT 1/10/12

SEEKERS & DOUBTERS

I’ve never been one to take my faith on faith.  I have always bluntly and ruthlessly sought the Truth (with a capital T).  So, I get a little uncomfortable around seamless, doubtless, never-blink believers.  As a serious seeker, I wonder what they know that I’ve missed.  I sometimes think they pray loud to crowd out their own doubts.  (And that’s bad.) 

I do believe.  My honest searching has brought me to honest, comfortable faith, and I see evidence of God’s glory and wonder all around me.  I got there by believing that, in the words of Socrates, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” That means questioning and doubting and following the evidence where it leads me.   (And I believe that’s good.) 

My point:  Don’t be afraid to question God.  He’s tough.  He can take it.  Have faith that He’ll lead you down the True path.  Have faith in your doubts. — jri    

As a child, I prayed without thought.  As I grew older, I stopped talking to God altogether.  Older still, and I began angrily complaining and questioning God.  Finally, more and more these days, God and I just talk.  Or best of all, there are times when I am able to quietly enjoy His awesome, loving presence.  God bless, and enjoy the quest.  Remember, God is seeking us as much as we are seeking Him.       

John Ingrisano

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

www.dailyconnections.net

January 10, 2012

THURSDAY THOUGHT 1/5/12

AWAKENINGS

I had always thought the story of Lazarus was about … well, Lazarus.  However (and these are not my thoughts, but garnered from readings), is it not also/mostly about us — about God’s calling us to awaken from the darkness of our own spiritual death and tomb and to come out into the light of life?    

Imagine Lazarus, as if awakening from a deep sleep, opening his eyes at the call of his friend Jesus:  “Lazarus, come out!” 

My point:  If God can do this, is there anything – anything! – he cannot do?  Are you stuck hopelessly in a lost life, battling alcohol, depression or some other demon?  Alone or confused?  Just give it to God.  Just trust.  God can and will turn your darkness to light and your sadness to joy.  No, He may not do it in the way you had hoped or expected; instead, He will do it in a better way.  Just trust.  – jri

I know people who, every few years, when they get in a super jam, call on (demand from) God, insisting that He pony up a miracle or two.  And then, when they don’t get what they want/demand when they want it/demand it, they snort in contempt (I like that phrase) and declare loudly/stupidly that A) God is a fraud or B) God is a figment of wishful thinking.  If you were God and these clowns showed up only when they needed a favor, gee, what would you do?  How about, instead, accepting the offer of friendship and of a relationship that goes beyond gimme-gimme?  Suggestion:  Talk to God.  Listen to Him.  And say “Thank you” every now and then.  So, enjoy the many blessings that  are showered upon  you each day.  They are free.  And they are real.  God bless.        

John Ingrisano

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

www.dailyconnections.net

January 5, 2012

WEDNESDAY THOUGHT 1/4/12

ANGER

I used to wear anger like armor.  As a youth, I found that it kept pain at bay and manipulative people at arm’s length.  Anger was safe.  Over time – though I can still flash murderous red when surprised by setbacks and takers – I decided that anger was a problem-solving tool best left behind.  It not only put troublemakers on the run, but it also drove away loved ones.  It caused more problems than it solved. 

These days, I’ve pretty much replaced petulant, consuming anger with a combo- cocktail of understanding, indifference, forgiveness, and love.  Bonus:  More and more, the spot where anger dwelled is usually filled with understanding, patience (kind of), and love.

My point:  As followers of Christ, we have work to do.  I know I do not have the time or luxury to nurse self-pitying grudges.  Plus, if I recall correctly, Christ didn’t say, “Hate one another.”  So, if you have anger, work on your forgiveness skills, and give up that anger to God.  He will fill that bitter space inside with love, serenity and peace. – jri

Anger may be a natural result of wrongs, real or imagined.  However, over time I have learned that anger, like alcohol, can be a cancer, a disease that feeds on itself and destroys the host.  It is not power, but weakness.  I found that it blocked my ability to love others fully and to live in peace and communion with God.  We are all wronged (and, yes, sometimes wrong) from time to time.  However, I have found that the only cure for this life-destroying disease of anger is forgiveness.  (Let it go and let God.)  So, if you have somebody you’re angry at, just let it go.  Let God keep score; you have more important things to do.  God bless and may you have a peace-filled day, one overflowing with love both given and received.

THURSDAY THOUGHT 12/29/11

BEGINNINGS

I used to try to make something significant out of the end of one year and the ringing in of a new one … but it never really rang true.  Years ago, I even tried, just once, the raucous New Year’s Eve celebrating in a noisy room filled with a few friends and a few hundred strangers.  (I was okay with it until the lead singer in the band thought it would be great to drop his trousers and moon the audience at the stroke of midnight.  The significance was lost on me.) 

These days, I no longer celebrate endings.  Instead, as my Mother was wont to do, I usually (no, not always; I’m not perfect) ring in each new day, each fresh morning, each new beginning with a simple prayer:  “Thank you, Lord.”  (I even sometimes sing it loud and long.)  It is a wondrous feeling to know I am loved as I am, forgiven for what I’ve done, guided to become — a step or two in the right direction each day – the man God’s wants me to be. 

My point:  Every day is a gift, an opportunity to start fresh, to begin anew.  Even if yesterday was a bear and half, each new day is a … well, a new day.  Embrace it.  Cherish it.  Most of all, take full advantage of it, this new beginning.  – jri

For those who know me, you know I admired my Mother for her strength and joy.  Many days she was beaten down – though never defeated! – by health problems and the usual setbacks of life.  And every morning, I would sit at the kitchen table and hear her descend the stairs, always with a loud greeting (“Good morning, my darling boy”) and often with an off-key song on her lips that could rattle the window panes and wake the dead.  Her two favorite tunes:  “Open up the windoooooooows, open up the doooooooors, and let the merry sunshine in!” or “I don’t know why I love you like I do.  I don’t know why … I just do!” 

To this day, and she’s been dead now 30 years, I can hear that voice … and awake with joy in my heart at the beginning of a new day.  God bless you on this and every new day.

WEDNESDAY THOUGHT 12/28/11

THE “STEADY” MAN

Joe had been my father-in-law for 23 years.  Now deceased, he will always be remembered by me as man of steadiness.  Quiet by nature, he was a doer, not a talker.  He was also a man of principle, a man who said what he meant and meant what he said.  He was steady. 

He reminded me of another Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus.  We know little about Joseph. I’m not sure if anything he said is recorded in the Bible.  However, he was a man of profound faith.  When God spoke, he listened and obeyed, apparently without question.  He learned that his fiancée, Mary, was pregnant by the Holy Spirit .. and he accepted it.  In a dream, he was told to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt, assumedly walking away from family and friends … and he did it.  Then, also in a dream, he was told that it was time to return to his home … and, again, he got up and did it.  Wow!  What a man of faith and strength!  Though he never talked the talk, he certainly did walk the walk.

My point:  Just that you could easily miss Joseph – and all the other quiet, steady men in this world – if we don’t pay attention.  These are not the trumpet blowers and gong bangers who crow and brag and bore everyone they meet with their list of accomplishments.  No, they are the quiet men of faith, the ones who say what they mean and mean what they say … and who change the world for the better.  Speaking only for myself, I know I could certainly use a bit of Joseph in myself. – jri

 Joe, my ex-wife’s father, had no faith most of his life.  Too honest to fake it, he simply accepted his lack of faith.  However, his wife insisted that their children be raised in the faith, and Joe quietly, unwaveringly supported that.  Toward the end of his life, by the way, he did have a conversion and died as a believer.  He was a good man, a role model I admire to this day. 

TUESDAY THOUGHT 12/20/11

THE CHRISTMAS/LAUNDRY LIST!

For many folks, our Christmas lists (as well as our prayers, wishes, and hopes all year long) tend to be about what we want.  We pray for just one more break, one more goodie, one more pony under the tree.  Our petition may be as serious as the recovery of health for ourselves or a loved one, or the restoration of a broken relationship.  Or it may be as frivolous as … well, back to that pony again.   

That’s why we often get disappointed, what with all these petitions and here’s-what-I-want prayers.  Very egoistic.  Well, what about what God wants?  What about what He wants for us?  See, and here’s the kicker:  Even when I’ve received everything I’ve ever asked for (and I generally have … cursed by my self-focused blessings), it’s never been enough; it’s never fulfilled or satisfied me for more than a day or week or month; it’s never filled that gaping hole in my soul. 

My point:  God and God alone knows what is best for us.  So, rather than approaching God with a laundry/Christmas list of wants, why not just let go and let God decide what we really want and need?  – jri

My biggest prayer these days (and my prayers keep getting simpler) is for an honest desire to accept God’s will.  That prayer follows a recognition that God is a good God – always, no exceptions – and that when I just do my best and keep out of His way, everything works out exactly the way it is supposed to.  Yes, that requires a fair amount of faith and trust at times.  But, well, isn’t that what it’s all about?  May you recognize, accept and cherish the blessings of the Lord today and every day.

TUESDAY THOUGHT 12/13/11

THE SURVIVORS’ CLUB

I know more than a few people whose lives have been shattered by either things they have done or things that have been done to them.  I also know people who, for no reason whatsoever, are cursed with the terrifying darkness of mental depression; some ponder suicide on almost a daily basis. 

But here’s the best part; yes, the best part:  They persist.  Though they often live in darkness, they also live in hope.  Like the Magi, they travel by the light of a distant star.  That star does not flood their path with brightness.  No, it guides them through the darkness.  Many live in an uncertain and oft-questioned faith.  Still, it is faith, nonetheless.  And they persist.

My point:  Trust.  And when you find that even trust fails, hope.  Christ came into the world to bring it light.  Perhaps not today, perhaps not right at this instant, but that light – that bright, warming joy-giving light – will flood your life.  Persist … just as Christ persisted. – jri

I sometimes confuse personal fulfillment, happiness and pleasure with joy.  I’ve also learned that there it is possible to be miserable and yet joy-filled..  On occasion (no, not always, I admit), I can be living in a pain-filled funk, dealing with both very real and some imaginary losses.  Nonetheless, I can also be filled with joy, the joy of knowing that I am trying to live the life of love and caring that God asks of me, and the joy of knowing that it all makes sense, even though I may not always and at all times clearly understand it.  God bless you.  Be joyful today. 

FRIDAY THOUGHT 12/2/11

SIX WORDS

I know a man who, by at least one definition of success, has everything, but who, in reality, knows nothing.  He has several homes, a handful of boats, more toys than he can shake a stick at.  Plus, he walks with a swagger, an arrogance, a false friendliness and chilly warmth that I once almost admired … until one day I happened to catch him in an unguarded moment, a moment when he could not be in control of a fairly simple event.  It betrayed way too much insecurity and inner fear … almost terror.  (He reminded me of the All-powerful Wizard of Oz with the curtain pulled back.)  He had surrounded his life with objects and ideas to protect him, and it hadn’t worked.  My admiration turned to sadness bordering on pity.

Then the other night I met this man’s polar opposite.  He had met life head-on: had seen much, had lost much, and had learned much … including how to travel light through this life.  His face was hard, but his smile was inviting and his eyes were warm, caring, open … and grateful (yes, grateful).  Even his philosophy of life – no, really, more his creed – was short and light.  He had it down to six words, six good words, written below. 

My point:  Our will and our efforts do not last.  We can fight time and gravity (as in, all things eventually get pulled back down into the earth) to no avail.  Our blessings – our true wealth —  are faith, love, caring and sharing, not for self-aggrandizement, but for others.  Everything else leaves us empty, afraid, and alone. – jri

MONDAY THOUGHT 11/28/11

TALENT

Imagine unimagined success!  We’ve seen it.  Many of us have experienced it:  A humble business venture that goes from wobbly near- failure to multi-million-dollar success; the inspired ability to go from couch-potato chunk to marathon-running hunk in less than a year; or a writing effort that goes from a good idea to magical brilliance.  When I run into people who have enjoyed explosive success, I marvel over their brilliance and giftedness.  Their knowledge and ability (grousers would call it luck) make me stop and marvel and ask: “Where does that gift, that talent come from?”  

Then I look at my own small gift as a wordsmith, especially after someone shares a word of thanks or compliments me on some message.  (No, this will probably not be one of them.)  And, yes, there are times when I go back and read something I’ve written and marvel over where it came from … surely not from me. 

My point:  It has to come from somewhere.  Sometimes, maybe, just maybe, there are things that come from us – a set of words, a thought, a painting, yes, even a business proposal – that we had no idea was inside us.  Maybe, just maybe, that is where God comes in.  Maybe. – jri

God’s hand?  I have friends who exhaust me insisting that one’s ability, as well as the complexity and awe-inspiring events of this world must come from anywhere – anywhere at all – but certainly not from God.  That would be illogical, they argue.  They believe in some innate (and not clearly understood) inner ability, but definitely not God.  As for me, thank you, I have searched science and philosophy and books of the spirit, including The Bible, and have found that the most logical source of life and the amazing complexities of this world must come from an intelligent (downright brilliant) source far, far, far beyond our feeble minds.  These are the gifts of God.  Just say Thank you; then enjoy and share them.  — jri

John Ingrisano

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

www.dailyconnections.net

November 28, 2011

TUESDAY THOUGHT 11/11/11

GRATITUDE

This Thanksgiving, I give thanks most of all for the gift of gratitude.  I have always had many blessings; they have always showered down upon me.  However, I have not always been aware of them.  

Among those many blessings:  My favorite is my Tommy-Tippy-Cup-like faith, that allows me to stumble and fall, but keeps helping me back up … again and again.  Then there is forgiveness, the knowledge that no matter how many times I screw it up, my bad-boy list gets wiped clean … again and again.  Ah, and then there are my family and friends, blessings that I too often take for granted but that revive my tired soul … again and again. 

As for stuff, not so much anymore.  I do understand how younger people (no, I am not old, thank you) focus on and value toys and power (and I am saddened when I see older folks who still do, who have not figured this out yet).  I’ve had it all, been there, and it was thin gruel in the end.  Instead, these days, I am grateful for having enough … enough for me and enough to share. 

So, this Thanksgiving, I am truly thankful and grateful for my cornucopia of blessings.  I am rich beyond measure.  Thank you all for your love, for your care, and for your caring.  You and all that I have are gifts from God, who blesses all of us each and every day. – jri  

SUNDAY THOUGHT 11/20/11

THE STRAY DOG CLUB

 As many of you know, I have a special place in my heart for stray dogs, people like Chicago Mike, who is doing time in federal prison, or Gary, the married, hard-drinking womanizer.  But I also include on that list my friends who have not seen the political light (as in:  they don’t see it my way), atheists, agnostics … even a few Muslims.  Worst of all, I have family and a few friends who are – gasp, gasp – homosexuals … and darn nice folks they are, by the way.  For this (and more), I have on occasion be roundly criticized for not doing my own separating of the sheep from the goats.    

Bummer.  Yes, I guess I am a Christian, but more to the point, I attempt to be a follower of Christ.  (This can be a big difference.)  I am a seeking sheep  (bah, bah, not bah, humbug), but I am also a part-time goat.  Mixing my metaphors, I guess that also makes me something of a stray dog, both to dogmatic “Christians” and sneerful nonbelievers.  But remember that Christ spent a lot of time with those stray dogs, eating and drinking with tax collectors, lawyers (sorry, son), prostitutes, etc. 

My point:  (1) Christ admonished us to love one another; (2) we cannot help the stray dogs in our lives if we do not talk to them; and (3) leave the separating of the sheep and the goats to God.  — jri              

I guess my way of thinking is that I have enough on my plate to try to change myself and find my own salvation, so I should just mind my own business and not try to fix and find fault with everybody else.  It’s God’s job to judge, not ours.  God bless you, even if you are not a stray dog.    

FRIDAY THOUGHT 11/4/11

ATHEISTS, DEISTS & CHRISTIANS … OH, MY!

 Once upon a time, when I was down and almost out, a couple reached out to me and helped me up.  They gave me a glimmer of caring and support (and they fed me regularly) during a time of loneliness and borderline despair.  They were the friends when I could not find a friend.  To this day, I hold them in a special place in my heart, and I still cherish the continuation of our periodic meals together, accompanied by lively conversation.

 Here’s the kicker:  She is an atheist (a devout nonbeliever) and he is a deist (who sees God’s presence in the orderliness of the world, but not so much in the religions of the world), and, in many respects, they are more Christian in their values and actions than many churchgoers I know.  Yes, we tease each other and, on occasion, we hotly discuss the “why” of our positions.  However, we also respect each other, and, yes, they allow/encourage me to offer a prayer before we eat.

My point:  Not sure, exactly, but I think it is that (A) there just may be many roads to Salvation and Truth and  (B) if Christ said we should love one another, then my atheist and deist friends are mighty fine Christians.  Let us not judge. – jri 

I have the privilege of knowing many people who color outside the lines.  I will not judge them.  As for my atheist friends, if you read this, I ask that you do not take offense when I say that I will pray for you at the time of your death … not so much that you come to see life from my perspective, but that God welcomes you as a friend of mine, a friend who, like the Good Samaritan, bandaged my wounds in a time of trouble.  God bless you.

TUESDAY THOUGHT 11/1/11

PEACE & JOY VS. PLEASURE & POWER

 I know a woman who recently lost her son in a tragic accident; he left behind a widow and three small children.  I know another woman who lost her husband a year or so ago to disease and then lost her brother shortly after.  I know several people for whom a cancer has almost completed its devouring meal.  These men and women are believers … or at least they try to be.  So, why didn’t God give them get-out-of-suffering-free cards?

Because that’s not how God does it.  Devout people may be rich or poor, healthy or sick, just like others.  What they do not have (and should not expect) are ponies under the Christmas tree just because they are believers.  They suffer loss, pain, regret, etc., just like others. 

 The difference:  They know and believe (sometimes fully, sometimes not so much) that God has a plan and a purpose, a reason that goes beyond their ability to see completely.  They pray, and their prayers are answered, though nonbelievers will look around and ask, “Did I miss something?” 

 So, God may not elect to cure your cancer or grant you a Mercedes for Christmas.  However, He is always with you, loving you, watching over you, caring for you and attending to your needs.  It is true. – jri

I have been tested with my small share of ups and down in this life.  However, I do sometimes wonder how people keep their faith in the face of true and great tragedy.  So, I encourage you to pray for those who do face tragic circumstances today.  If they are sick, yes, pray for the cure; however, pray mostly that they may have faith and strength.  If they have money troubles, yes, pray for financial relief; however, pray mostly that they may find joy and wealth in their current circumstances.  If they have pain, whether physical or emotional, pray, yes, that they may be healed and restored to health; however, pray mostly that they may find joy and comfort in knowing that the Lord is with them … always.  God bless.   

FRIDAY THOUGHT 10/14/11

THE COOKIE TREE

 We used to have a dog called Jackie.  One day, roaming the property, she took a nap under a tree.  For reasons no longer remembered, I quietly opened a window and tossed a cookie in her direction.  It landed by her nose.  Slowly, her nose twitched as she sniffed its presence; then she opened her eyes, stretched out grabbed it, ate it, and went back to sleep.  So, I threw another, which she also found and ate.  Of course, being a pea-brained dog, she never gave a thought to how those cookies got there. 

We can be that way when it comes to the good things in our lives.  (No, I’m not calling anyone pea-brained, just human.)  Blessings seemingly drop off the tree and into our hands.  Cool.  Enjoy.  Good life.  Sometimes we like to believe we get them from our own brilliance and hard work.  Often, we just shrug and figure, “Oh, look, another cookie off the Cookie Tree.” 

My point:  I’ve been around long enough to have learned that the good things in this life are gifts from God.  When we fail to realize that, even the greatest wealth and power give little if any true joy.  When we recognize and acknowledge the Giver, it is only then that we can truly enjoy the blessings that drop from the Cookie Tree each and every day.  – jri

One of the blessings of getting a tad older is that I see less value in things and more value in people. This leads me to believe that God arranged this life in this neat way on purpose:  We focus on the physical and temporary as youth, but we have the opportunity and insight to turn our minds to the true and eternal as we grow older, that is if we take the opportunity to grow, not just grow older.  I wish you a joy-filled, wondrous day.  Blessings surround us at every turn.  Don’t take them for granted, as if they just fell out of the Cookie Tree.  Embrace them; enjoy them; thank the Lord for them.  God bless. 

John Ingrisano

209 Church Street

Algoma, WI 54201

(920) 559-3722

www.dailyconnections.net

October 14, 2011

WEDNESDAY THOUGHT 9/28/11

In my travels, I did not see God today, but I saw His footprint.  I am traveling a lot these days, doing writing and business seminars across the country, sometimes “seeing” four cities in four days.  It can get lonely at times. 

Last night I checked into a hotel in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  It was an everyday, decent, mid-range motel.  And then I saw God’s footprint:  In the info rack on the desk was a card titled, “A Prayer for Today.”  Ah, I was in a house of believers … no longer alone.  On the other side of the card was another message, shared in part below. 

My point:  As people and believers, we can sometimes feel alone.  When others reach out in even the smallest way, it feels great.  We should do the same.  (My favorite, of course, is a simple “God bless you” after a brief retail transaction.)  Let others know that they are not alone, that someone (that someone would be you) cares.  It can make a big difference in another’s day, week … life. – jri

I also have a confession to make.  I travel without my Bible, but always find the Gideon Bible in my room.  (If it is not there, I ask the front desk to send up a copy.)  When I read it, I have a tendency to mark it up with notes and underlinings.  I also — thinking that someday, another person may pick   up this same book – scribble a little note of hope on the inside back cover, along with my initials and the date.  (Let me know if you ever come across one I’ve written in.)  I guess that’s my way of leaving my footprint.  We don’t always need to shout the Word.  Sometimes we can whisper it quietly.  God bless.

TUESDAY THOUGHT 9/27/11

ACCEPTING THE GIFT

 Years ago, I knew of a man who went off to fight in World War II, and he became very good at it.  However, when he came home, he could not handle the peace.  He died a sad, miserable alcoholic. 

 Well, I know how he must have felt … kind of.  Over the years, I have struggled through many challenges.  Every day I arose to do battle with dragons; that was much of my life.  So, you can imagine that most of my prayers have been calls for support, relief from pain, or just complaints that the reinforcements had not arrived on my time schedule. 

 Well, here’s the scary part:  My prayers have been answered (well, except the one about the pony and the Mercedes).  No, my life is nothing like I had imagined or prayed for — it’s better, much better.  The dragons are either all slain or fleeing for their lives.  I have faith, forgiveness, healthy children and grandchildren (all of whom seem to think I’m pretty okay), love of a steady woman, good friends and a welcoming faith home.

 But here’s the punch line:  What do I do now?  How do I live in a valley filled with peace and balance?  I have no idea what to do with these gifts.  Scary.  Dare I lay down my sword?  Almost makes me want to run out and start a war, pick a fight, run away.  But I will not. 

 My point/my challenge (ah, a challenge; thank God!):  I pray for the strength – with grace and gratitude – to learn how to accept, cherish, and just enjoy these  soothing and wondrous blessings … without guilt or a need to go out and look for some struggle to embrace.  I suspect I am not alone in this.  If you fear peace and acceptance, are more comfortable in conflict and pain than in gentle balance, I encourage you to offer it up to God, who, I believe, actually want us to be peace-filled and joyful.  – jri

Oh, and maybe, just maybe, I can now devote my time and my limited talents to helping others rather than studying my own self-absorbed and lint-filled navel!  I think that’s the best part of all, recognizing that there is a world of need out there … and maybe it’s time to do something about it.  God bless you.

SATURDAY THOUGHT 9/24/11

LETTING GOD BE GOD 

I know of a family (good people, by the way, by all accounts) whose one son was injured in a swimming accident several summers ago and is now a quadriplegic.  Last week I learned that another of their sons was injured in an ATV accident and is now a paraplegic. 

I know some people who think God is a ferocious warrior who commanded the Jews to wipe out the tribes that were unfortunate enough to be living in the land God promised them after their 40-year desert wanderings.  I know other people who think God is weepy-eyed and sweet, full of gorgeous sunrises and butterfly blessings. 

My point:  We do not have a true clue about who God really is.  We get only bits and pieces of the picture from the Bible; then (I suspect, because we cannot comprehend the immensity of the message) we cherry pick what we want to believe.  Instead, in the words of Martin Luther, maybe we just need to “let God be God.”  Believe in the apparent contradictions.  Believe that it will all make sense someday.  Most of all, believe in the words and instructions we received from Christ.  Nothing else matters.  It’s not our business to comprehend that which is truly beyond our comprehension.  – jri

The above was not meant to be harsh.  It’s just that, as humans, one of our driving forces is to make sense of events, to create order out of apparent chaos.  I have spent years seeking truth; one thing I’ve learned is that truth is different from understanding.  Just because I do not understand something does not make it untrue or wrong.  It just means I do not understand it.  Yes, I can reject what is obviously untrue or false.  However, I keep my mind and heart open to that which is apparently true or possibly true.  Whew!  Didn’t mean to get so heavy on a Saturday morning.  Just trying to make sense of the events of this life, especially the seemingly harsh and random ones.  God bless you.

MONDAY THOUGHT 9/19/11

PEACE-FILLED EXPECTANCIES

I was somewhat saddened this weekend because I was unable to enjoy two special events due to timing and schedule conflicts.  One was the wedding of my dear cousin, Karen, several states away; she and I had been through much together and had held each other’s hearts through old sorrows.  The other was to see my daughter, Nicky, visiting from Seattle; she and I had rooted for each other and stood by each other in past times when few others would.  In neither situation, however, did we let our expectations (being together) darken our expectancies (love and trust and ongoing appreciation).  We all accepted the unavoidable disappointments without complaint. 

I was reminded of this by the contrasting, very arrogant expectations of the Aramite commander, Naaman, who nearly rejected a cure for his leprosy from the Prophet Elisha because “I thought” and “I expected” it to be a big, primetime event, rather than the simple cure by dipping himself seven times in the Jordan River. 

My point:  Very often, we know what we would like to see happen.  It doesn’t always work out that way.  God has other plans … pretty much always.  That’s why I tend to say these days that “I believe God” (His words are true) rather than “I believe in God” (which is sort of like believing in Santa Claus or unicorns).  Have an expectancy that He will keep His word, not an expectation that He will meet your demands on your terms and on your schedule.  Live this day trusting in God.  – jri

Though my cousin’s wedding was hundreds of miles away, I bid my guardian angel to watch over the nuptials and bless her and Gene.  This is something we have often done in the past, sharing each other’s guardian angels, if only symbolically and for comfort.  Of late, however, I believe our angels sit together, visiting and giggling over the joy in both our lives.  As for my daughter, we both felt funky and odd that she is so close and yet we will not be able to visit.  However, we talked last night, shared our common frustration, and reassured and blessed each other.  I will see her in a month or so.  All is well.  God’s way works just fine.