Thoughts, devotions, and more from Jeffrey K. Ross, author of "Next Step Devotions"
On the back wall of the Visitor’s Center at The Abbey of Gethsemani is a plaque with some wonderfully thought-provoking words written by G. K. Chesterton in Orthodoxy. During this beautiful springtime week in this quiet place of reflection, I was brought to tears by the thought expressed. Chesterton wrote: Because children have abounding vitality, …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #87: There is Beauty in a Child’s “Do It Again”
This afternoon while browsing in the gift shop at The Abbey of Gethsemani, I saw a simple gift item with a quote that I think is profound: “You cannot plow a field by turning it over in your mind.” The message is clear: If you want to accomplish something, you have to do more than …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #86: You Cannot Plow a Field By Turning It Over in Your Mind
As one who is almost always online - both at work and outside of work - stepping away from technology for any period of time is difficult for me. As I anticipate spending the next several days in a personal retreat at The Abbey of Gethsemani, I'm in a bit of a quandary over what …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #85: Unplugging Is Difficult
We normally think of commitment as a good thing. Of course, it depends on the object of one's commitment. If I'm committed to doing harm to others, that's a bad thing. If I'm committed only to what gives me pleasure in the moment with no thought of others or long-term consequences, that's also a bad …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #84: Commitment Is Good, But It Isn’t Enough
Have you ever anticipated something so much for so long that, when it finally came to pass, you were a bit disappointed? It can be quite a letdown. On the other hand, it is exhilarating when all of that expectation is met or surpassed by what finally transpires. For the last few days I have …
Continue reading Leap Year Lesson #83: Reality Can Exceed Expectations
