Exploring the practice of paying attention.
Summary:
In this reflective sermon, the speaker explores the transformative power of intentional attention as the foundation of reverence and devotion. Through anecdotes involving the poet Mary Oliver and personal observations of nature, the sermon argues that truly seeing the world around us—from a stranger’s hand to the origins of our food—fosters a sacred bond with existence. This practice of “looking twice” serves as an antidote to the modern urge to act like gods, instead helping individuals recognize their rightful place within a vast, mysterious universe. By moving from distraction to empathy, people can transition from fear to awe, finding healing for the “worst stung heart” through simple acts of noticing. Ultimately, the sermon suggests that everything is holy and every inch of space is a miracle if we are willing to grant it our time and love.