Thoughts, devotions, and more from Jeffrey K. Ross, author of "Next Step Devotions"
I stayed with my parents last night. At 7:00 a.m. today my mom called upstairs to me and said: "Jeff, get your clothes on and come down here real quick. I just saw three of the most beautiful dear out in the yard. Come see them." I was downstairs quickly. She instructed me to quietly …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #92: Enjoy April Fools Day… and Every Day
Anyone from Kentucky knows that last night was an epic contest between the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville in an NCAA men's basketball championship semi-final game. The hype leading up to it was enormous. The emotions before, during and after on both sides are at a peak (or valley) level. I'm glad …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #91: Take Time to Make Memories
As I reflect on this past week spent in a quiet, personal retreat at The Abbey of Gethsemani, one recurring thought is that you must occasionally go off the beaten path in order to discover real treasure. Most of my friends, family and colleagues think that going to a monastery for any length of time …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #90: The Best Treasures Are Found Off the Beaten Path
I forgot what day it was yesterday. The days blend one into the next so seamlessly here at The Abbey of Gethsemani that there really is no point in knowing which day of the week it is (except Sunday when the schedule is slightly different for worship, but the abbey’s bells would warn you of …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #89: You May Find Yourself When You’re Lost in the Present
The term “risk” seems to generally have a negative connotation in our society. “That’s too risky” is, of course, a commentary on the potential negative impact of something. Financial investments are frequently categorized in terms of a risk vs. potential reward framework. We try to convince children and teenagers to avoid risky behaviors that might …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #88: Risk More. Worry Less.
