Reconciliation before celebration

Lent 2013 Cover  Genesis 13:1-7, 14-18

Question for reflection:
If you’re like me, when you hear reconciliation, you also hear confrontation. There is little that I, and a lot of other Brethren, fear more than confrontation. Worse than that is admitting that something was my fault. How do you overcome stubbornness or fears of confrontation–in yourself or in those you wish to reconcile with–in order to reach a mutual goal?

Prayer for the day:
Healing God, may we, this Lenten season, push past our fear of confrontation or our fear of being wrong to be able to reconcile with each other. Let us see an argument as merely an exchange of wits and not hold grudges. Whether it’s over too many sheep on one land or someone’s car parked the wrong way on the street, help us to solve our differences kindly as Lot and Abram before us.  Amen.

~ Rachel Witkovsky, National Junior High Conference Coordinator

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.

Found By God

A Community of Love    Genesis 16:6-15

Prayer for the Day:
Most gracious and Holy Spirit, who have I treated badly? Who has gone away from me or my community because of our harsh behavior? God I admit my guilt and ask your forgiveness. Even if you send an angel into the wilderness before me, guide me to the people with whom I need to reconcile in your name. Amen.

Question for reflection:
Think of a broken relationship. What is your fault? What is not your fault? What is God calling you to do in the midst of this brokenness?

~ Becky Ullom, Director of Youth/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 Lent devotional written by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford. (Available from Brethren Press) Join us as we look and listen for the coming of the Word through the reading of scripture, Cheryl’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.