Day 20

Day 20
Friday, December 17

“Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Reflection
In the NRSV translation of the Bible these verses contain the worlds always, without ceasing, and every situation. As much as I would like to be this holy, I’m fairly certain it is impossible. The expectation that any one of us can maintain this level of delight in and connection with God has been used to make many a Jesus follower feel less-than. Today, I hope these words can remind you that even when you don’t feel like rejoicing, when your prayer life is lacking, and when it is hard to find something to feel grateful for, you are part of a community of people filling in those gaps. This is why we do faith together. Together we remain connected to God through out connection to one another.

Prayer
In the dark days when it is hard to rejoice, pray, and give thanks, we ask for your help God. Use the praises, prayers, and gratitude of others to pull us back to you. Amen.

Reflection by Denee Bowers