Category Archives: Devotional

Devotional

Crushed bones

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2015 COVER


Psalm 51:7-12

Question:
How can we ensure that confession and forgiveness remain at the center of our Christian experience? What should be the marks of a community genuinely forgiven and loved by God? What are ways your congregation can increase those marks?


Prayer:
Gracious God, how great is your faithfulness. Forgive us, Holy One, according to your mercy. You show us that we are infinitely precious. You come to heal us and bring hope for change. Amen.

~ Stan Dueck, Director, Transforming Practices

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Blotting out sin

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2015 COVER

Psalm 51:1-6

Question:
The words, ‘steadfast love’ and ‘abundant mercy’ give us a glimpse into the depth of compassion and healing grace of God’s nature. What words do we offer to those who are hopeless and desperate? Do we offer confirmation of their worthlessness dwelling on the consequences of their sin?


Prayer:
God of compassionate love, we do ultimately come to you just as we are, bearing transgression and sin.  We return, however, not as we were, but as recreated and liberated people called to sing aloud and declare God’s deliverance and unfailing love. Amen.

~ Stan Dueck, Director, Transforming Practices

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Returning and rest

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2015 COVER

Isaiah 30:15-18

Question:
In what ways do we find ourselves running away from that which we know? Do we have patience with ourselves in acknowledging God’s accompaniment and faithfulness with us?


Prayer:
O Lord, you are the Source of what is right and true, and you are home. Thank you for your guidance and for your strength. Please have patience with us as we wander and run instead of looking to you and your direction.

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator, CCS and National Junior High Conference

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

What a day . . .

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2015 COVER


Isaiah 60:15-22

Question:
What darkness are you facing right now? In searching and allowing God’s presence, where can you find God’s light, even if it is just peeking through?


Prayer:
Creator, we are honest with you. Sometimes we are stuck in a rut and find ourselves in a place of ignorance or distrust, confusion, or feeling beaten by everything that surrounds us. Gently remind us of your love for us and that even in the midst of these long nights, you are still there, shining your light.

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator, CCS and National Junior High Conference

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

The blame game

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2015 COVER

Numbers 20:1-13



Question:
What are some ways in which our perspective needs shifting? Is forgiveness needed? Is God calling for us to step back and listen? How is God working through you to solve these struggles in your life?


Prayer:
Lord, help us to understand that we need time. Help us to be patient when patience is the furthest from our minds. Today, we are able to offer gratitude for your trust in us and your patience with us.

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator, CCS and National Junior High Conference

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Spiritual thirst

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2015 COVER


Psalm 107:4-9

Question:
How often do we think about our lives in the way of fulfillment? How has God entered and filled you? In what ways are you still hungry and thirsty for God?


Prayer:
Creator, we need you. We know we are filled by you, and yet, we recognize those parts within our lives and within us that are lacking complete nourishment. Thank you for your presence; on this day, we offer ourselves to be open and completely filled, even those parts we cannot bear to let anyone see.

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator, CCS and National Junior High Conference

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Holy questions

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2015 COVER


John 3:1-21

Question:
In times of darkness and light, what question, or questions, is God asking you?


Prayer:
O Lord, in our journey, help us to ask questions wisely and faithfully, leaning in with a listening ear to your reply.

 

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator, CCS and National Junior High Conference

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Sending Out His Word

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2015 COVER

Psalm 107:17-22

Question:

What situation in life causes you to feel less than hopeful? Invite God to change your perspective on this situation and thus begin to heal you.

Prayer:

God of hope, who transforms our doubts and insecurities into opportunities for growth, forgive us for the times when we have unintentionally reduced your power to our understanding of what is possible. Thank you for sending your word in the example of Jesus, and inspire us to share your hopeful word with others. Amen.

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

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Cry to the Lord

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2015 COVER

Psalm 107:17-22

Question:

What is the most significant cause of your distress these days? How do you want God to help you in this situation?

Prayer:

Merciful God, who promises to be with us even as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, incline you ear to my plea. Break into my life with your presence as the sun breaks through the clouds! Amen.

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

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.

Devotional

Speak Up!

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2015 COVER

Psalm 107:1-3

Question:

What would it be like for you to consistently share about the way the Holy Spirit has been active in your life on a day-to-day basis? You might share with a spouse, housemate, work colleague, or child.


Prayer:

Eloquent God, whose wisdom and graciousness is transmitted to us in many ways, strengthen our timid hearts and cause us to tell others about the small and grand ways you move in our lives. Amen.

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

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 Craig H. Smith, district executive for the Atlantic Northeast District of the Church of the Brethren and ordained minister. (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, Craig’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.