Parting words

AWAKE_ADVENT_4

Romans 16:25-27 (16:25, Message)

Question for reflection:
In what ways do you use the gifts God has given you as a source of strength? How have you praised God for these gifts?


Prayer for the day:

The heavens proclaim the wonders of God. We rejoice in the Savior’s coming. Strengthened by the gospel give us vision to be instruments of your peace. Amen.

 ~ Stan Dueck, Director for Transforming Practices

Congregational Life Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is offering these simple prayers and questions in connection to this year’s Advent Devotional written by Sandy Bosserman, a former district executive and ordained minister in the Church of the Brethren. (Available from Brethren Press in print and E-Book formats). Join us as we look and listen for the coming of the Word through the reading of scripture, Sandy’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Barrenness

2013 Advent good_news_hi_res  Luke 1:5-7

Prayer for the day:
God, help us to have eyes to see those places in our lives where your Kingdom is breaking in, and let those glimpses fill us with joy and hope, even as we wait for the Kingdom to come in all its fullness. Amen.

Question for reflection:
In what areas of your life are you still waiting for God’s promises to be realized?

~ Tim Heishman, National Youth Conference Coordinator

Congregational Life Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is offering these simple prayers and questions in connection to this year’s Advent Devotional written by Tim Harvey, pastor of Central Church of the Brethren (Available from Brethren Press in print and E-Book formats). Join us as we look and listen for the coming of the Word through the reading of scripture, Tim’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

In too-plain sight

Lent 2013 Cover  Psalm 27

Question for reflection:
Assume for a moment that you saw evidence of God’s presence in your life today / yesterday, but also that you missed recognizing it. Think back over the events of your day. When did you feel close to God? When did you feel far from God? Where might God have been working in you / your life even if that work seems unfinished as you reflect on it?

Prayer for the day:
As you breathe in: “Open the eyes of my heart, Lord.” As you breathe out: “I want to see you!” Repeat.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, Director for Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Congregational Life Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is offering these simple prayers and questions in connection to this year’s Lenten devotional, The Practice of Paying Attention, written by Dana Cassell, Minister of Youth Formation at the Manassas Church of the Brethren. (Available from Brethren Press in print and E-Book formats) Join us as we look and listen for the coming of the Word through the reading of scripture, Walt’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.