Us: Shining together

John 1:1-9

Question for Reflection:
Into what situation are you being called to carry the light of the Holy Spirit?

Prayer for the day:
Order my steps and my actions in a way pleasing to you, Living God. May I not only carry the light of the Holy Spirit to others, but may I also be engulfed by it. Light my way, and grant me the wisdom to be able to share your light with others.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.

The next act: Rainbow connections

Luke 3:15-18

Question for Reflection:
Recognizing that a “sign of hope” may appear much before the “reality of hope,” what was the most recent “sign of hope” you’ve sensed?

Prayer for the day:
Jesus I am grateful for the signs of hope you give me this day. Make my senses perceptive to your nudging. I pray for the ability to understand the ways in which you are encouraging me today!

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.

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 can lead to isolation. Our sweet interior selves are shy and vulnerable, yet we know great growth can come through examining our “soft spots.” Give us strength to hold these two sides of ourselves in balance, and guide us as we share ourselves with others every day.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.

Jesus the child: A precocious one

Luke 2:41-52

Question for Reflection:
Who is the most “spirited” child you regularly encounter? Albeit occasionally annoying, how might God be revealed in this child’s words and actions?

Prayer for the day:
Gracious, transforming God, give us vision. When we look at young ones still growing, help us to see the potential lying just beyond the next birthday or two. Fill us will patience. Teach us how to walk with people through tricky transitions.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.

Galilee: Awash in inspiration

Matthew 2:19-23

Question for Reflection:
What spot in nature near your home inspires you? Where is it that you see God in your town?

Prayer for the day:
Creator God, give me the discipline today to notice my surroundings. You speak to me through the wonders of nature and I want to be more aware of your presence in my surroundings, whatever they may be. Amen.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.

Nazareth: Rather ordinary

Matthew 2:19-23

Question for Reflection:
What beauty lies within the ordinary nature of your daily routines?

Prayer for the day:
God we long for adventure and all things extra-ordinary. Ordinary is boring, and it’s difficult to see the blessing in boring. Grant us calm and peace, and the wisdom to seek the instruction to be found in “ordinary” living.

~ Becky Ullom Naugle, 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 Advent Devotional written by Walt Wiltschek, campus pastor of Manchester University. (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.