by Donna Parcell (Volunteer just returned from Nigeria) I am overcome by the strength and resilience of the people of Ekklesiar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN-Church of the Brethren-Nigeria). Everyone has a story. There is not one who has not been affected. There is Zakariya, who hasn’t seen his mother in two years and doesn’t know
strength
Know-nothing party
Not seeing today’s post? Hit the “refresh” button on your browser. Mark 11:27-33 Question for reflection: The elders and church leaders were put on the spot. How often do we rise and acknowledge that our dedication and strength comes through Jesus and the One who sent him? Prayer for the day: Creator God, we know
Hand-to-mouth consequences
Not seeing today’s post? Hit the “refresh” button on your browser. Jeremiah 1:4-10 Question for reflection: As we reflect on the calling of Jeremiah, we are reminded that we are not alone. When are some times we felt like the task ahead of us was greater than what we alone could accomplish? Prayer for the
These hands are holy hands
Mark 2:23-3:6 Prayer for the day: Give me strength, Holy God, to do what is right. Amen Question for reflection: As we read in these two stories, the Pharisees were intent on catching Jesus in the act of doing something they considered wrong. They remind me of an old-fashioned private eye lurking in the shadows
Surprised by faith
Take it to the Lord in Prayer Luke 7:1-10 Prayer for the day: The old hymn reminds us what a privilege it is to carry everything, our sins and grief and pains and temptations, to God in prayer. And I know that when I pray, You will help carry my burden and bring me peace.
Why Jesus fasted
Matthew 4:1-7 Prayer for the day: Dear God, help us to take time for prayer so that we have the strength we need to follow you through whatever life brings. Question for reflection: In what area of your life are you experiencing temptation? Would you be willing to face your temptation by trying a short
Scarcity and abundance
2 Kings 4:1-7 Question for reflection: Where are there signs of abundance in your congregation and life that offer hope and vitality? Prayer for the day: Lord God, help us to care for one another and for your world. Remove our fear and tendencies to assume scarcity. You are the one from whom every family
Patience and golden calves
Exodus 33:1- 6 Question for reflection: So what happens when you get a stiff neck? Do you stop responding to others around you, or are you simply more aware of the effort it takes to fully turn your body towards a sound? What does this mean for your journey with God? Prayer for the
Greed and abundance
2 Peter 2:4-21 Question for reflection: Where do you draw strength from to keep going on the right path when many alluring distractions and obstructions are in your way? Prayer for the day: Great and wonderful guide of our lives, lead us on the right life path. Stomp out diversions that make us stray
John the Baptist: Tough and sweet
Matthew 3:1-12 Question for Reflection: In what ways do you have “a tough exterior” which prevents others from knowing your “sweet interior”? Are there ways you can balance the two realities more? Prayer for the day: God we are simultaneously frustrated and pleased by our dualistic nature. Our tough exteriors protect us, but that protection