Holy Ground. Julie K. Aageson

the gift of devotion.

      REFLECTION

      Devotion makes more of us. It requires attention and single-mindedness. Devotion is life-giving, invigorating. It draws us into the living presence of God and transforms our daily lives into prayer.

      What is it that so captures your energy and your dedication that it makes more of you?

      Name some ways devotion moves us away from self-absorption into God’s overwhelming love, God’s amazing grace.

      How does living daily life as an act of devotion expand our worldview, stretch our imaginations, inspire creativity?

      Enthusiasm

      Enthusiasm

      Nowhere is enthusiasm more evident than in the high-pitch fervor of athletic events. Whether one is an athlete, a sports enthusiast, or simply an observer, it is hard to think of athletic events—perhaps most especially the Olympic Games—without a spirit of enthusiasm. In addition to the faces that radiate unwavering hope, steely focus, energy and passion, there is an ever-present awareness of disciplined determination, talent, and years of demanding training that are standard requirements for athletes. No wonder enthusiasm is so central in sports.

      But enthusiasm as prayer? “Really?” we say, perhaps feeling a bit put off. Maybe we’re remembering stories of the Pentecostal movement where enthusiasm was kicked up a notch to give this denomination the derogatory moniker, “holy rollers.” Or we may be picturing religious rallies or imagining other enthusiastic interpretations of Christian life and faith—television evangelists, religious hucksters selling their wares, or the zeal of someone whose life has been radically changed. “Really?” we say rather suspiciously.

      We moderns tend to look down our noses at these expressions of enthusiasm—especially when it comes to religion. Religious groups have sometimes perpetrated horrific acts of violence in their zeal and unbridled passion. We rightly are wary and suspicious of extremes and unchecked fervor, especially in an era of fanaticism that stalks too many places in our world. Unless we’re referring to a sporting event where enthusiasm is the name of the game, we try to avoid too much enthusiasm. We don’t want to appear excessive, undignified, or childishly silly.