"No weapon formed against thee shall prosper."
Isaiah 54:17 NRSVUE
Ninth Day After Christmas
My 93-year-old mother is sometimes paranoid and confused; occasionally targeting me as the
enemy. I gained weight during the pandemic that must be managed. A genetic mutation
predisposes me to many life-threatening cancers. A double mastectomy was planned and had to
be postponed when I broke my ankle and leg.
After a year, some days, I can barely walk. Did the devil do this? Did some demon push me on
the stoop where I broke my leg and ankle? Self-doubt, anxiety, anger. Woe be unto me; moods
lay in wait poised to cease me. The "devil" will delight and revel if I let him. Or do I glorify the
days I can walk and thank God there is a dodge to the breast cancer that could knock on my
door? Should I be thankful that there is surveillance that may prevent other cancers from taking
hold? Do I celebrate that surgery might heal my ankle? Do I praise God because my mother is
still living and we still laugh, go to shows and watch movies together and (most of the time) her
mind is intact?
The "devil" is in the mix, but the choice is mine whether to let him manifest and rule me. I have
supportive family, friends, church, and calling, and I pray that I am actualizing my purpose in
alignment with God's intention! God will see me through, and I will strive daily to honor my
blessings.
Sister Celeste M. Bryant
WIN Justice Ministry
Married Couples Ministry
Prayer: Lord, Help us honor the advent of your birth as a time to lift up our blessings and honor
your reign in our lives. 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.