"My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance and let endurance have its full effect so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.”
-James 1:2-4 NRSV
24th Day of Advent
December 21, 2021
Faith: Counting It All Joy with Technology
The COVID-19 pandemic intensifies any trial, including tests of our faith. Amidst closed sanctuaries, believers are attending virtual worship services/bible study/morning and evening meditations/church conferences and ministries. As platforms like Facebook are chastised for allowing technology to spread hate and disinformation, our church, like many others, is using technology to welcome new members. Intercessory prayers using the “chat” or “Q and A” functions are increasingly becoming the norm.
The sacred space and fellowship at 1518 M Street NW has strengthened and sustained me for decades. But during this pandemic, I am grateful that technology has enabled me to endure personal trials, to participate in interfaith efforts, to engage in bible study, and to intercede on behalf of those needing prayer without having to kneel at the chancel.
Prayer
Almighty Creator, thank you for helping us to have faith and to "count it all joy" when the trials loom larger than we can handle and this pandemic prevents kneeling at the physical chancel. Thank you for technology that has helped us to welcome new members, to fellowship, and to intercede on behalf of others. Help us to have patience and faith to endure as we seek the spiritual maturity and inner peace that comes from overcoming trials.
Sister Maurita Coley Flippin
Daniel Alexander Payne CDC
Advent 2021
Join us in a time of reflection, expectation, and contemplation during the season of Advent 2021.
Each day a new reflection with a scripture and prayer will be posted on the Metropolitan AME Church website and social media to encourage you to hear the words of those reflecting, anticipating, and contemplating with you in community as we thank God for what God has done, notice what God is actively doing and anticipate what God will do next.
Read along with us each day or download the book to read and write along with us offline.