Today’s author is Prince of Peace member, Milt Warkentien.
Here we are on Thanksgiving Eve, falling this year right between the last Sunday of the church calendar and Advent, the first Sunday of the church calendar.
We have much to give thanks for:
- The Saints active in our life now, and those that came before and led the way,
- the opportunity that we have a chance to vote, no matter the outcome,
- the veterans and those on active duty that have served our country,
- and the family and friends that make up our lives.
- We also give thanks for the light that is coming that no darkness can put out.
Thinking about the darkness that surrounds us. It seems to me that much of the darkness is the lack of respect I see in the world.
- Lack of respect for life, as evidenced by the abortion being a form of birth control, and the senseless shootings that we’ve almost become numb to.
- Lack of respect for creation as global warming becomes more and more a threat, the destruction to our parks and designated lands, along with all the litter I see laying around.
- The lack of respect for nationalities and religions, as wars and racism are rampant around the world.
- The lack of respect for each other, as evidenced by how people treat one another.
Micah 6:8 calls us to “love kindness, do justice and walk humbly with God”.
John 13:34 says “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”
Luke 1: 79 says “to give light to those who sit in darkness, and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace”.
Dear God, we give you thanks for the many gifts we have in our lives, and we pray that you give us strength to be beacons of your light in a darkened world. God, guide our feet in the way of peace, drive darkness and fear from our eyes. God, guide our feet in the way of peace, with courage to walk in your light. Amen
This is a rough recording of a piece we’ll be singing during Advent. It’s written with the message of the Luke 1:78-79 in mind. Jean Olson helped bring in the light and darkness imagery.