Every stinkin' moment.

We should be astonished at the goodness of God, stunned that He should bother to call us by name, our mouths wide open at His love, bewildered that at this very moment we are standing on holy ground. –Brennan Manning


Anyone else besides me exhausted by this election season? I mean, it’s been long and drawn-out beyond what a normal human being can tolerate. Even with the lovely diversion of a matchless World Series matchup, this season has been interminably long. And the ugliness and meanness exhibited seems, at times, to be record-setting in its own right.

Looking for Divine fingerprints on the whole mess can become a full-time challenge. But remember this:

God is good. All the time.

Even when it feels as though things are spinning out of control, God’s goodness remains visible to those whose eyes desire to see.

God’s goodness is there, clearly on display in the volunteer who reads to a child during their lunch period.

God’s love is in each can or box of food brought to feed someone who has little, just because the one who gives know what hunger feels like.

God’s brilliant light shines in the generous smile of welcome offered to all, the door held open wide. That’s how Jesus did it. Just love: God first, then self and one another, all the same.

God is good. All the time. Always remember. And live God’s love into action.

Monday If you are able-bodied, choose today to leave a close-in parking space at the mall or grocery store available for someone else. Ruth 2:4-9

Tuesday The food banks in our communities are always in need. This week, pick up some tuna, macaroni & cheese or other pasta and drop it off at a kitchen or food bank. Ruth 2:10-13

Wednesday No matter what your politics, pause today and reflect on the life of a nation’s leader and their family, living in a fishbowl. Pray for them. 2 Samuel 7:18-29

Thursday Pay attention to the strangers today with whom you interact, people in line, a cashier or server. Pray for them and their families. Philippians 2:5-11

Friday Is there someone in your life who inspires you? Someone whom you admire or consider a role model? Have you told them? Today would be a great day to make a call or drop a note. 1 Corinthians 1:4-9

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, thank God for the people and opportunities you have had in your life that made you who you are today. Rest. Psalm 17:6-8

Sunday So many opportunities in this place! When was the last time you told someone about this church you call home? Next Sunday—bring a friend! Luke 14:12-14

Like when you sit in front of a fire in winter—you are just there in front of the fire. You don’t have to be smart or anything. The fire warms you. –Bishop Desmond Tutu


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