Today’s Author: Deb Cordes

As I was sitting at breakfast with my two grandchildren, I was doing what I always do, read stories to them. I have been reading the Sparks Bible and just completed the story of the flight to Egypt. Lucius looked up and said, “read another Nana” echoed by “more” from Wes. I love to read to them. I love to tell the story. I realize I have been reading to them and telling stories all my life. 

I read the story of Judge Deborah next. Since that is my name, I read it with a bit more gusto. When we were done, Lucius asked, “Is the Judge Deborah was named for you, Nana”. “No. It is the other way around. I was named for her.” Lucius thought about that for a minute then asked whether I was a judge like her. “No, it’s not my place to judge. I’m just God’s helper – like you.” (I thought that would end the conversation…..) “How do you help God?” Good question. “I use my kindness, helping others and love to share God’s love with you and others.” Lucius “that’s good. I like to be good and a helper and I love you”. 

I hope that choosing love, kindness, and attempting to show care, make a difference in those around me. I know other’s kindness, caring, and lovingness makes a difference to me. We like to think it comes from some innate part of our being – and it does as a gift from God.  

My favorite prayer….Prayer of St. Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy. 

O Divine Love,
Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love. 
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, 
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.


“Mid-week devotions are authored by members of our community.  If you are interested in creating a trio of reflections to be shared on an upcoming Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday contact Pastor Peter.