Waiting for Jesus

Dec 1: Isaiah 40 – He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

As we prepare and plan our Christmas events, memories of loved ones pop up. The love we shared with special people still remains and this is a time that memories of those relationships return. Is there a Christmas decoration that reminds you of someone and warms you with joy? Sit with those emotions for a bit today. They are precious.

This image reminds me of a glass decoration which was part of a flower arrangement i sent my parents the first year i was not able to come home for Christmas. It was a plexiglass center-piece that lit up. Years later, mom told me that the flower arrangement was the only decoration they put up that year, and it gave them as much joy as possible, without having family around them that Christmas. I now have that ornament, and feel the longing for family along with the joy of many years of gathering. Two sides to memories, right?

Prayer – Ever present God, you are the source of all love. Through your gift of Jesus we know the joy of salvation, and live in the hope of uniting in your kingdom. Christ, shine through our darkness. Amen

Waiting for Jesus, November 27

Prayer: John 18:33-37

Holy God, The words of this world whip around us like a mighty wind.

We are caught up in news reports, in text messages, in emails and notifications.

We are drowning in updates from the media, caught off guard by the constant hum of it all.

But here on this bright or grey morning we remember: you too are speaking.

Still the voices around us. Calm our minds and center our hearts so that we can hear your words of truth above the wind of the world.

We are leaning closer. We are at the edge of our chairs. We are beginning again. Speak to us, as only you can. Amen

Waiting for Jesus

November 24

scripture: Isaiah 40: 11 He tends his flock like a shepherd:
    He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart;
    he gently leads those that have young.

This passage reminds me that God is with people who have come upon hard times. Many of our ancestors came to this place of goodness through much hardship. As we gather in comfort , take time to appreciate their perseverance. Pause and reflect on the special things that decorate your home. Is there an especially favorite decoration that would be the one you would choose, if you could only keep one?

This picture shows some of my favorites: a candle snuffer gifted to us; quilted table linen made by my mom; but the item I’m thinking of as most precious is the Christmas candle bridge. It reminds me of my heritage, family gatherings and lighting advent candles. I give thanks for the warm glow of soft light and gentle hearts.

Is there an ornament you would need to keep if you could only keep one? Share the story in the comments please.

Let us pray: Glorious God, your precious son Jesus is our hope and desire for a world bruised and torn apart. Remind us that you are present even in the tough times. Comfort those who’s life is in danger, be with those who are homeless, those who are fleeing from war, those whose lives have been turned upside down by unexpected events. Remind us that in your love all are gathered and comforted. Amen

Waiting for Jesus November 20

Prayer: Mark 13: v 8

Affirming God, as we desperately wait for Jesus we ponder: How often do you speak to us, and how often do we miss it? How often do you whisper blessings over us that we refuse to hear?

Open our hearts. Create space in us to not only hear YOUR words, but to believe the good news tucked between them.

We are hungry for your wisdom, so speak to us now.

With hope and curiosity, we listen.

With hope and curiosity, we dare to begin again.

Amen.

Theme: 1. nation against nation – 2. see the end and the coming of the Son – the more we see the end, the more important it is to provoke one another to love.

Waiting for Jesus

November 17

Isaiah 52: 7 How beautiful upon the mountains
    are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news,
    who announces salvation,
    who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”

We are buffeted and battered almost at this time of year by consumerism. It is overwhelming and often falls short of the promise, leaving us empty. However, many family traditions are based on gifts of time together, and care for one another.

Perhaps you have a special Christmas ornament symbolizing this time together which was hand made. What does being hand made mean to you? how do you feel as you bring it out each year. Share your experience in the comment area of this page.

Let us pray: God of all, you know each of us intimately, and love us without judgement. Open our eyes to be your love in the world. Amen.

Waiting for Jesus: Nov 14

November 14, Music

This lively music is from Brazil. It features images of the angel bringing God’s message to Mary, the stable and the awaited birth. if you cannot access the video, paste this link in your search bar. https://youtu.be/LyT4THCudeo?si=iOVzu5zkT4Uu3Iun (It is there in purple ink.) or go to YouTube.com and paste it in their search bar.