More challenging than we imagine

2013 Advent good_news_hi_res  Luke 2:7

Prayer for the day:
O God, who came in the vulnerability of a child, we so often sing of silent and restful nights as we celebrate Jesus’ birth. We confess that all too often we fail to imagine what the peacefulness of that night has to say to the madness of our day. Open our eyes to the grace of the nativity in our everyday lives. Amen


Question for reflection:

Where have you seen the peace and calm of the infant Jesus in the past few weeks?

~ Josh Brockway, Director for Spiritual Life and Discipleship

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.

The inkeeper: No room?

Luke 2:6-7

Question for Reflection:
When have you opened the door to share the hospitality to stranger or friend?

Prayer for the day:
Christ of the manger, we set our stable scenes with your image, wrapped in simple cloth. We even sing songs of your birth, heralding closed doors that sent you to that stable. With each nativity song we are reminded that even still a door was opened. Grant us courage to open our doors to those seeking warmth and welcome. For in doing so, we might take part in your ever increasing grace.
Amen

~ Josh Brockway, Director for Spiritual Life and Discipleship

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.