Thursday, December 1st

Romans 8:26  Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words.I often struggle with prayer.  What are the right words to use to talk with God?  The words often feel so trite and superficial.  Why even try to find words when God knows my innermost thoughts?  At times it seems important to find words for praise and gratitude, and to pray for those who are in need.   Other times, it feels like the most authentic way to grow closer to God is to sit still and silently listen for God’s voice.Dear God – help me to be patiently still and silent so I may listen to you.  In Your name, AmenDP

Wednesday, November 30th

November 30, 2022I Peter 3:8Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Throughout the letters of the New Testament, the Apostles provide encouragement and guidance to newly developing Christian churches, which were often isolated and far from each other.  The letters emphasize the importance of developing attributes of Christian belief, thought, behavior and attitudes to strengthen and support these emerging congregations.  Peter’s words encouraging habits and qualities that can maintain a cohesive, loving and mutually supportive church family remain fresh and relevant today.Dear God – help us to maintain a unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, tender hearts and humble minds so that we can discern your presence among us and move confidently and lovingly as a cohesive church family toward transitions in the year ahead.  In Your name, Amen. DP

Tuesday, November 29

Romans 15:5-6May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.Living in harmony is something that we humans have a hard time doing, even though most of us would readily agree that harmony is better than disharmony. The God of steadfastness and encouragement seems to know this about us and is granting us life lived in harmony. The ultimate objective of living in harmony is not only for us, but for the glory of God. Harmony means unity with each other and with God.Dear God, Mother and Father of Us All:  Help us to remember that disharmony does not not glorify You.  Life lived in harmony with each other and with you, bring glory upon you and us.  AmenLO

Advent Reflection for Monday, November 28

Psalm 32:11 

Make me to know your ways O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation: for you I wait all day long.

 

The Psalmist is asking God to guide them along their life's journey and to help them find their way to God's eternal life. This seems harder and harder to do here on earth with so many people lashing out, killing others, and destroying this planet. It is easy for us to get caught up in the day-to-day struggles and lose sight of our purpose here on earth. 

 

Dear Lord, I want to grow, learn, and follow you. Please help me along the way to stay on your path to do what is right in your eyes. Amen TR