Returning and rest

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.

The blame game

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.

In waiting

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 Psalm 27, of David

Question for reflection:
There are many times when we find ourselves waiting. Do you give yourself room for patience? Can you reflect on some moments from the past week that you recognize God’s presence through grace and patience?


Prayer for the day:

Lord, even though it is hard to be patient, we are trying. Thank you for walking with us, in the times we are aware of your presence and in times that we become preoccupied. Please help us remember that the One we are waiting on is the ultimate gift, who is so special and loving. ~ Amen

~ Kristen Hoffman, Coordinator of 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 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.

Maturity

2013 Advent good_news_hi_res  Luke 1:67- 80

Prayer for the day:
God who hears the words of our hearts, help us make space for others to speak. And, in that space, give us the patience to truly listen to our sisters and brothers, even if it means leaving our own words unsaid. As we learn to listen, may those learnings also help us hear your voice more clearly, O God.

Question for reflection:
How might becoming better listeners “guide our feet into the way of peace” (v. 79) more readily than making sure our own words are heard?

~ Donna Kline, Director of Denominational Deacon 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 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.

Chief priests and scribes: What’s the word?

Matthew 2:3-6

Question for Reflection:
Who do you turn to for answers to big questions? Experts in the area or someone who just always seems to know the right thing to say?

Prayer for the day:
All-knowing God, help us to find answers to our questions. We know there is not always an easy answer, but help us find those close who may have the knowledge we seek. May we also be able to search out in ourselves the right questions to ask. Bless us with patience to wait for the answers. 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 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.