Hope. With running shoes.


It’s not too late to change direction if you’re not at peace with the life you have now. Don’t put a deadline on your happiness.
--Anonymous


Happy New Year!

On the liturgical church calendar, this coming Sunday marks the start of Advent. The word Advent means coming, or arrival. As Christians, we take this to mean the arrival of the Christ Child, the one of whom the prophets spoke, born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. The next four weeks, our hearts are filled with anticipation, joy and hope.

It’s somehow fitting, as we in the States have just celebrated Thanksgiving, our day officially set aside to recognize just how blessed we are (whether we use that language or not), and to remember that not everyone has it so good.

Rev. William Barber talks about his grandmama, a tremendous cook, who would spend an afternoon over the stove, feed her family—and then head out to visit those who had less, taking delicious, hot meals with her. She called it going out to hope somebody.

For Grandmama, hope was a serious verb. It was something she actively undertook. And it is something we definitely need to continue. We can hope somebody with a sandwich or cup of coffee (or both). Maybe you can hope somebody with a ride to the grocery store. Or hope somebody with a phone call or love note. The possibilities are endless. Lead with your heart. Listen for the whisper of the Christ Child.

How will you hope someone this week (and the next . . . and the next)?

Monday As we approach the first week of Advent, think back. How can this year be different from the last? Spend time remembering. Jeremiah 23:5-6

Tuesday Following Black Friday and Cyber Monday, today is “Giving Tuesday.” How will you give of yourself (or your stuff) during this Advent season? “Give” thanks to the Giver. Isaiah 9:2-7

Wednesday Think about holiday traditions in your family or household. Reflect on how they originated and why they endure. Consider journaling. Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Thursday Ponder the new traditions we are creating together, here, at Strongsville UCC. Give thanks for this wonderful family, and ask God to guide your involvement in a new way. Ezekiel 36:24-27

Friday Have you stopped to reflect on the Church’s “way” of moving through Advent? What appeals to your soul? How can you bring these traditions into your daily way of living? 
2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Saturday Today as you pray for yourself, reflect on a place of poverty in your life, a place where you desire “more.” Look for the Lord in that place, and give thanks. Proverbs 30:7-9

Sunday During Advent, consider taking a sabbath on the Sabbath. Spend time in quiet; make a fast from food or football or electronics. Make room in your “inn.” Psalm 121

I am definitely not the same person I was
when this year started. –Scottie Wayes


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