You open your hand, satisfying the desire of every living thing. The Lord is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings. The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. (Psalm 145: 16-18)

Fundamental to my understanding of God is restraint. I perceive and experience a God who does not insist, does not intervene, does not interfere unless there is an invitation.

With an invitation God can be very active, but only as long as we remain open to God. Like a good guest or friend God will not remain any longer than we want.

The psalmist affirms that God is near "to all who call on him in truth." When we invite another we are to behave as a good host: lively, generous, caring, open, and giving.

Above is Calling by Patrick Burke.