“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.“
Psalm 46:1NRSVUE
Fifth Day After Christmas
I still have childhood anxieties that plague me. I am afraid of creepy crawlers; bugs, snakes...
You will not find me visiting the reptile house at the zoo. I hate to be surprised from behind. I
jump every time. Finally, I hate to be alone in the dark. My irrational love of scary movies has
planted too much fodder in my imagination for unsettling things can happen in the dark.
Recently, I was home alone when the power went out everywhere at 11:00 p.m. leaving me in a
darkened house on a darkened street, no lights anywhere. My mind sped decades in reverse; I felt
like a frightened 10-year-old. After my heart pounded for several seconds, I realized that I had
to get myself together and manage the situation. I asked God to calm my nerves and give me the
courage to face the night. As I continued praying, I felt myself begin to unwind and the peace of
God embraced me. I fell asleep and was awakened by the lights several hours later.
Our God responds to all situations, including frivolous ones like mine. In preparation for the
celebration of Advent, remember that we can call on God to calm and strengthen us at any time.
Only God can bestow peace that passes all understanding.
Psalm 27:1 assures us - “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is
the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
Steward Marie Johns
Pastor's Steward
Prayer: Dear Holy Parent – thank you for life and the perfect peace that only you can give.
Amen
Advent Guide 2023
As we stand in expectation of peace on Earth and reflect on the events of our times and the lives of our brothers, sisters and siblings in Christ, we await change and new birth.
We seek, listen and perceive the presence of God in words of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.
We invite you to join us in meditation, reflection, prayer and spiritual disciplines throughout the season of Advent and beyond.
Read along with us each day or download the book to read and reflect along with us offline.