Henri Nouwen, born in the Netherlands in 1932, was a prolific Catholic priest, writer, and theologian. He held professorships at prestigious universities like Notre Dame, Harvard, and Yale, but found his true calling living and working among people with intellectual disabilities at the L'Arche Daybreak community in Toronto. 

Nouwen's writings, which include over 40 books, are deeply personal and introspective. He often explored themes of loneliness, brokenness, and the search for belonging, connecting these universal human struggles to a profound spirituality rooted in the love of God. His books, such as The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, and The Return of the Prodigal Son, have been translated into numerous languages and continue to inspire millions. 

Nouwen’s life and work demonstrate that true strength is often found in vulnerability, and that authentic ministry comes not from a position of power, but from a place of shared humanity. 

 
 
Dear Lord, 

Today I thought of the words of Vincent van Gogh: “It is true there is an ebb and flow, but the sea remains the sea.” You are the sea.  

Although I experience many ups and downs in my emotions and often feel great shifts and changes in my inner life, you remain the same.  

Your sameness is not the sameness of a rock, but the sameness of a faithful lover.  

Out of your love I came to life, by your love I am sustained, and to your love I am always called back.  

There are days of sadness and days of joy; there are feelings of guilt and feelings of gratitude; there are moments of failure and moments of success; but all of them are embraced by your unwavering love. . . .  

O Lord, sea of love and goodness, let me not fear too much the storms and winds of my daily life, and let me know there is ebb and flow but the sea remains the sea. 

Amen.