Enter this sanctuary time by settling down, becoming quiet, and breathing deeply a few breaths. Remind yourself you are in the Presence of Love. This place you are entering, within, is the inner Temple. Here, you are One with Spirit and all persons, and Nature. You may use a mantra, or prayer phrase, follow the breathing in-and-out, or witness the arising and falling of all around you as the manifestation of universal-Grace. Enjoy these moments of Quiet and come out when you are ready. The following video is provided for those who would like meditative music to accompany your Quiet:

*Kokin Gumi. Zen Garden.

We are each a child of One, learning childlike trust...

*Twila Parish. Do I Trust You, Lord.

A man left his brand new bike unattended at the marketplace, while he went in shopping. Being used to walking, he walked home. He forgot he had left his new bike outside. Remembering it that night, he got up early the next morning to get it. He was quite sure that it was stolen, though. To his surprise, the bike was exactly where he had left it.

Delighted, he hurried to the nearest temple to thank God for having kept his bike safe. He prayed. He walked out of the temple, only to find his bike had been stolen.

*Story by Anthony de Mello. Adapted.

A man came upon a farmer working on his farm. The traveler, admiring the beautiful garden, said, “Sir, that is one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen. God does some beautiful work, doesn’t He?” The farmer replied, “Yes, God does. But you should have seen the mess that land was in before I began working it."

Divine Providence is a theological way of speaking of the Divine being in control of our lives, and this includes providing our needs. Jesus referred to this - often called Allowing or in Divine Order - with these words:

30But if Spirit so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will the One not much more clothe you, You of little faith? 31So, do not be anxious, saying, 'What are we going to eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 ... Your heavenly Father-Mother knows that you need them all. 33You are, instead, to focus first the Way of Spirit and the One's way of being in the world; then, all these things will be given to you.

*Matthew 6.30-22. My translation.

Each person, to walk a spiritual Path, discerns this matter of relationship between Divine Provision and Personal Responsibility. However, being co-creators with the Divine Spirit, we are involved with the provisions for our living.

We seek to trust, as well as take action for our need, in all aspects. Yet, what Jesus in Matthew does teach us is not to worry about the basic necessities of life. Working together with Spirit, our needs – not ego-wants – will be met.

Reflect on your role in trusting Spirit for provision.

OneLife Ministries is an independent ministry, but not presently with nonprofit legal status. Love gifts to support the spiritual Work of Brian Kenneth Wilcox are appreciated.

Thanks!

Brian Kenneth Wilcox

©Brian Kenneth Wilcox Ministries, and Love Light Fellowship. 01/28/11

*OneLife Ministries is a ministry of Brian Kenneth Wilcox, SW Florida. You can order his book An Ache for Union from major booksellers. To book events with Brian, go to Facebook and his page Brian Kenneth Wilcox, or write him at briankwilcox@yahoo.com .