“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
-Isaiah 40:31
9th Day of Advent
December 6, 2021
Trust in the Lord & Renew Your Strength
As Christmas is approaching, I think about the Virgin Mary and Advent. As a poor teen, her thoughts about becoming the mother of Jesus were probably not considered in her patriarchal society. Fortunately, she was married to a kind man who would not shame her when she explained her encounter with the “will of God.” I am sure she prayed and asked questions of God. Mary had to “wait on the Lord” just as we seek answers for the situations we face. This is especially true during these unprecedented times.
Throughout life we find ourselves anticipating, gladly accepting, thankful, and celebrating many blessings. However, when weak in times of trouble and long-suffering, it is our faith, patience, and endurance that require love, renewed strength, a sense of hope and peace that we can only get from God.
Prayer
Lord, help us to be like Mary and accept your will. Answers to our questions may be revealed to us over time, and when they are not, help us to lean not on our own understanding, and give us your peace. May we reflect on the love of God and the lessons learned in times of celebration and distress. Thank you for the love and assistance you provide through prayer, family, friends, and community. Thank you for the blessings of faith, hope, joy, and peace. Amen
Sister Linda Bryant Aarons
MAME Church School Teacher
Married Couples Ministry
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.