Advent Reading
Psalm 72:1-8; Genesis 49:2, 8-10; Matthew 1:1-17
Gifts don't always come wrapped looking like gifts.
A painful and lonely childhood becomes the means to offer comfort, understanding and acceptance to others.
A trial and hardship becomes the vehicle for much needed growth and change.
Living through an illness or tragedy provides opportunities to reach out and help others who are enduring a similar thing.
"Do not assume that he who seeks to comfort you now, lives untroubled among the simple and quiet words that sometimes do you good. His life may also have much sadness and difficulty that remains far beyond yours. Were it otherwise, he would never have been able to find these words." ~ Ranier Maria Rilke
The Messiah.
The Savior was expected.
But not the way he came.
Not the way he lived.
Not the way he died.
Not the way he saves.
Not the way he loves.
Look for unexpected gifts.
Father, give us eyes to see the good gifts you give us. Help us to look back and see your hand and work in our lives. For you are ever working for our good. You take the hard and painful things and use them for our greatest good. Thank you for your love, your grace, your sacrifice, and your continued working in our hearts and lives. May the truth of this cause us to be a more thankful people. Amen
4 comments:
Mary this one is awesome!! As always, thank you for the insight.
Mary, just want to thank you for sharing your Advent prayers and thoughts. I am thoroughly enjoying reading learning. A blessed Christmas to you and yours. Brenda R.
So, so beautiful.
What a wonderful counselor
He is through these words
of life.
Thanks for pouring us
a fresh glass:)
-Jennifer
Your painting is incredible....and your message is just so powerful. You seem to have the perfect one for me each day!! Have a wonderful day!
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