Pillow talk


I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. That myth is more potent than history. That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. 
That laughter is the only cure for grief. 
And I believe that love is stronger than death. 
–Robert Fulghum


Do you remember the story from Genesis where Jacob, exhausted from a day’s travel, lies down, places a stone under his head for a pillow, and has a vivid dream? Angels from God are travelling up and down a twisted ladder into heaven, and God makes some pretty amazing promises to Jacob. (If you want to revisit this story, you will find it in Genesis 28:10-22.)

It was a vivid dream, and Jacob remembered it clearly. When he awoke, he knew, without a doubt, that God was speaking to him through his dream.

But instead of laughing it off, or pretending it never happened, Jacob took action.

First, he took the stone on which he had been sleeping and created an altar to the Lord, there in the middle of nowhere. He called the place Bethel, which means House of God.

Then, Jacob decided that since God had made such rich promises to him, in return he would pledge gratitude and generosity back to God. All this, based on a simple dream.

Do you believe God speaks through dreams? What kind of listener are you? What will it take to get your feet moving, making your life an altar to God? Are you willing?


Monday Let peace begin with you. During the day, rest from your labors; do less. Give thanks for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. Hosea 11:1-11

Tuesday Pray today, by name, for a friend or family member whose life is in need of peace. Pray that God’s holy peace would fill their soul. Psalm 107:1-9

Wednesday Pray for Black, Muslim and Jewish brothers and sisters whose churches have been targeted by fires or hate. Pray for healing peace. Psalm 49:1-12

Thursday Pray for our peace officers, those men and women whose vocation is to protect and serve, keeping us safe on a daily basis. Give thanks for their service, and thank them in person when the opportunity arises. Colossians 3:1-11

Friday Pray for the world. Pray for those enduring chaos or confusion, whose lives seem hopeless or pain-filled. Pray for God’s presence in the lives and hearts of those affected by conflict. Ecclesiastes 1:12-14; 2:18-23

Saturday Another chance to pause in silence. Remember a time of God’s faithfulness in your life and be thankful. Luke 12:13-21

Sunday Pray today, by name, for a nation in conflict. Pray for the Holy Spirit of peace to be made manifest in our world. Give thanks for your faith family of love and peace.  Luke 12:22-34

Life without dreams is like a bird with a broken wing.
It cannot fly. –Dan Pena

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