Advent Devotions
All are invited as we Make Room this Advent season.
The Journey
Today’s author is Prince of Peace member, Micah Sethi.
A couple weeks ago, I went on a biking trip to Stillwater with some friends. It happened a lot later in the year than we wanted to due to weather and scheduling problems, but this was going to be our last shot until spring, so we went.
By the time we got to Sillwater, we were completely exhausted, but the journey felt very fulfilling in the end. This experience reminded me that life is all about journeys. It also made me think about how Mary and Joseph had felt when they arrived in the town of Bethlehem after their long journey from Nazareth. I can imagine they were quite exhausted when I think about the fact that they walked through 90 miles of desert to get there. And I thought just 30 miles of biking was a lot!
There is a universal feeling of accomplishment that comes with the end of every journey, and I think that Mary and Joseph felt a great sense of accomplishment, especially because they were expecting the birth of their son, Jesus. This has made me realize that journeys are an important part of life and they help us truly live life to the fullest.
Previously…
Joy in the Games
Today's author is Prince of Peace member, Carol Swanson. 1 John 3:1-7 Back in my Lutheran Camp days, one of my favorite songs was based on 1 John 3:1. It’s the first thing I thought of when I read this text. It was a joyful round, so simple. It could be sung...
This In-Between Place
Yesterday’s featured reading from 1 John continues to explore two crucial themes: our relationship with God and the impact of sin on that relationship. John reminds us of the incredible reality that we are children of God, an identity that should shape every aspect of our lives. Yet, he also acknowledges that we live in an “in-between” place, where the fullness of God’s kingdom is not yet realized, and sin still exerts its influence.
Living as Beloved
As we move into the second week of our series, “Complete Joy,” I’m reflecting on the powerful truths we’re encountering in 1 John. The apostle’s letter invites us to consider the nature of our relationship with God and the transformative power of divine love.
Joyous in Our Love for Others
Today's author is Prince of Peace member, Deb Cordes. Joy and peace to you. Joy in church was not something I grew up with. One was not to talk in church, focus on reverent prayers – meaning hand in the church position, eyes down in humility and on your knees in...