A scriptural exegesis of Isaiah 12 written by Emmett Witkovsky-Eldred, youth and young adult ministry assistant, for the 2018 Advent Offering We’ve all been told “patience is a virtue.” And we’ve all heard that “good things come to those who wait.” Waiting isn’t always pleasant, but we often regard waiting as the price we pay for
joy
Out with joy
Psalm 105:37-45 Question: What wilderness are you stuck in right now? What might it look like for God to bring you out of that wilderness? What form will your gratitude take? Prayer: There are broken parts of my life, God. I am separated from others and from you because of my own sin. Forgive
Hearts rejoicing
Psalm 105:3-6 Question: How does remembering how God has worked in your life elicit joy for you? What expressions of joy will others recognize in you today? Prayer: God, give me your strength. Inhabit my remembering. Warm my heart. Receive my joy. Amen. ~ Jonathan Shively, Executive Director, Congregational Life Ministries Congregational Life Ministries
Happiness
Psalm 32 Prayer: Holy God, we look to so many things for our happiness. We give into the images of peace and joy paraded before us on screens billboards. Yet, we know that nothing compares to the joy of your grace. In the distracted state of our lives we lose sight of your forgiveness. Open
Parting Words
Not seeing today’s post? Hit the “refresh” button on your browser. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 To ponder: Sometimes we place such high expectations on ourselves and others as Christmas approaches! We strive to decorate our homes, prepare tasty holiday treats, and finish shopping for everyone on our lists even as we carry out our everyday tasks
Seed and Sheaf
Not seeing today’s post? Hit the “refresh” button on your browser. Psalm 126 To ponder: As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, our hearts are heavy with the suffering of our sisters and brothers around the world, especially with what is happening in Nigeria. In the midst of our questioning “Where is God
Actors in a supporting role
Not seeing today’s post? Hit the “refresh” button on your browser. Luke 5:1-23 Question for reflection: The earliest pregnancy announcement that I can remember happened when I was about ten years old. My much older brother was dropping off my five year old nephew early one morning to be watched by my mother. I recall
Prelude to Joy
Mark 6:11-44; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 24:28-31 Prayer for the day: Lord Jesus, your prayers brought life. With your blessing the simple meal fed thousands, and with similar words you gave thanks and offered us all the bread and cup of life. We confess that all too often we overlook our own prayers of blessing
Carry the light
Matthew 2:9 Prayer for the day: God, help me follow you today, trusting as you lead, grateful for the calling, joyful in the journey. Question for reflection: Where is the Christ star guiding you today, and as you enter this new year? ~ Jonathan Shively, Executive Director, Congregational Life Ministries Congregational Life Ministries of
Silence amid chaos
Matthew 2:10 Prayer for the day: O Jesus, light of the world. In you, God broke the hold of darkness on the world of the principalities and powers. The child brought near the salvation of God, and our hearts flowed with joy and thanksgiving. Amen. Question for reflection: What experiences have filled you with