Cultivate peace each day this week.
December 13: Peace of Mind
- Scripture: Romans 15:13 — May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Meditation: Trust brings peace of mind. One writer noted, “If you trust someone, you feel comfortable being honest with them about anything. God is much more reliable than even your most trustworthy friend. When things feel difficult, He doesn’t ask you to keep those feelings to yourself.” Conversation with God comes as prayer. Sharing your concerns and doubts is encouraged within our faith tradition.
What has helped you have trust, despite times of difficulty? Who in your life needs your example of trust? Or who do you know who needs support to cultivate trust? - Spiritual Discipline: Share a moment of peace you found through trust, encouraging someone else who may be struggling. And/or find an opportunity to trust someone in a simple, small way today.
SONGS:
- A Matter of Trust by Billy Joel: https://youtu.be/6yYchgX1fMw?si=EJMHfF9NSaOFdJ-C
Prayer for Advent — Maren Tirabassi
God, as we gather into Advent,
let me embrace the Nativity
so that I can embrace
those near to me and far away,
for my own strength is not enough.
On every day of Advent,
let me light all four candles
of the Wreath,
(at least in my mind) and sit
with hope, peace, joy, and love,
just for a moment
so I can respond
to what someone may need,
and to what I may need.
Let me sing a carol or two
every day … not waiting
for the human-dated holiday
so a sweet song, a soft one,
or one bright as a bell,
come quick to my tongue.
Let me read the old texts often,
as friends, not lessons in candles,
reflect on each aspect
to face realities coming this year,
with calm, courage, trust,
and to recognize,
on the very personal level,
someone who’s life
has been upended by an angel …
or who’s lost sight of a star …
sings about holy justice …
works through the night …
or is at the juncture
between shutting a door
or offering a manger.
Center me in this Advent season,
so I expect Christmas
to surprise me every day. amen