Weekly Inspiration 7/16/2026

Unlike the day-to-day economic or social pressures that bear down upon us from the world, or even the internal pressures of our own psyche, the pressure exerted upon us by the Holy Spirit is always creative, generative, and life-giving beyond what we can anticipate or imagine.

Br. Keith Nelson

Society of Saint John the Evangelist

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by Steve Garnaas-Holmes

         As Jesus was walking along,

         he saw a man called Matthew

         sitting at the tax-collection station,

         and he said to him, “Follow me.”

         And he got up and followed him.

                      —Matthew 9.9

The voice of freedom or justice,

the song of beauty or healing,

the call of the Beloved, is not a shout.

It's merely the hum of life

that begs your harmony.

You're going about your life, plain as always,

when something ineffable, moving

in a different direction, tugs at you,

like the aroma of bread baking:

an urge, a subtle leaning, an invitation.

Your presence is requested.

Learn to stop and attend.

Perhaps in a moment of stillness,

maybe in a rush of trying so hard—

a compass needle wobbles.

Stop and attend.

You are not especially wise or gifted;

your faith is no stronger than anyone else's.

Don't question why you are chosen;

the only way to know is to follow.

It may be a life-changing endeavor,

or a moment's simple act of love. Follow.

Never stop listening.