Month: November 2016
Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem
November 30, 2016
Into this climate of fear and apprehension, Christmas enters,
Streaming lights of joy, ringing bells of hope
And singing carols of forgiveness high up in the bright air.
The world is encouraged to come away from rancor,
Come the way of friendship.
Matt Sigler ~ Lo, He Comes with Clouds Descending
So, while we can and should sing of Christ’s return throughout the year, Advent presents a key opportunity to declare with clarity this crucial doctrine in our faith. And as Wesleyans we have a gem in Charles’ hymn, “Lo! He Comes With Clouds, Descending.”
Giving Tuesday
November 29, 2016
Today is Giving Tuesday, a day set aside to support organizations for the coming year that live out the kind of vision that stirs your spirit. Will you prayerfully consider walking alongside us with your resources?
Tom Fuerst ~ One Thing White Evangelical Parents Can Do
November 28, 2016
By establishing the habits of observing other people’s sufferings, of taking time to notice the pain and fear around them, we teach our children a genuinely Christian ethic. And in this, my hope is that they become adults who care about justice and equality for everyone. My hope in conversations like this is to sensitize my children to the lived experiences of others. My hope is that our children grow up able to hear, rather than disregard, the fears of others.
Following Joseph
Following Jesus is always easier when there are angels around. We have a significant spiritual experience. We make a commitment. We’re bold and excited. We think, I can do this. I believe this.
There may be others around us who are feeling that same way. They’ve taken on a new spiritual challenge. Made a new commitment. Maybe even their initial commitment to Christ. They’re energized and confident. They’re all in and ready to follow.
And then the angel leaves.
Andy Stoddard ~ Simple Gifts
November 25, 2016
Today, we all have gifts that seem so small with all the needs around. Offer them anyway. Give them to Jesus. Give to them to his mercy and grace. And see what he can do.
Maxie Dunnam ~ Deliverance Through Thanksgiving
November 24, 2016
It’s so easy to forget. It’s so easy to lose touch with the source of life…how we got to where we are; all the blessing that have been poured out upon us. It’s easy to think that we are where we are today because of our own efforts.
Giving Thanks for the Saints: Joe Hale, Godbearer
November 23, 2016
As in every age, there is a need to speak truth to power. There is a need to reflect Jesus into the lives of others. There is a need for Christians everywhere to more fully become Godbearers, making the kingdom life visible, tangible and real.
Elizabeth Glass Turner ~ A Cold and Broken Thanksgiving
Let’s all go around and say what we’re thankful for…
Your year flashes in bits and pieces in front of your mind and you search for a socially appropriate response that doesn’t include “good medical attention after a miscarriage” or “pro bono lawyers” or “insightful marriage and family therapists.”
Pass the stuffing.
Jean Watson: The Power of Thanksgiving
November 22, 2016
The land where I did not want to be was becoming the land of my blessing.