Scripture: Philippians 2:5-7
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.
Thought for the Day: Today, I am going to get a bit personal. My mother is having another surgery, and though this one is outpatient and not considered major, it still is major for all of us who know and love my mom. I’m pretty sure most of you know exactly what I am talking about. Distance makes it hard, and though she will have both family and church family around her, she is most definitely on my mind today…especially at this time of the year. With that in mind, I am writing a prayer for her and all those who find this holy time of the year intersecting with stressful and difficult happenings.
Prayer: They called you the Wonderful Counselor, for it was the faithful convictions of those -centuries ago- that you would journey with them even in their darkest and most trying times. In this season of the year, we once again echo those words and call upon you, our Wonderful Counselor, to be a compassionate presence and guide through whatever life may present. This is especially needed when so much of the world struggles to find the joy and hope of this season. Difficulties in health, finances or relationships – there are so many things acting like obstacles, preventing many from perceiving you and your gift of love. For all of us, let the message of your presence born into the world be a reminder that there is no place or circumstance so far removed that you are not there. The birth of Jesus is your way of declaring that we have a Wonderful Counselor who shows up in the workplace, a hospital, commuter traffic, a lonely house, a shelter, street corner, a jail cell or even a feeding trough where bewildered parents hover close by. Make this Christmas not just another holiday, but a witness to your relentless love. This we share in the name of your gift, that child in the feed trough. Amen.
SEE YOU SUNDAY
SEE YOU MONDAY
