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Thursday, October 30, 2014

suffering, thursday

Thursday, October 30

Come to Stillness: Take a few minutes to allow your mind and heart to be still before God.
         
Opening Prayer: Father, I know my wounded and broken places oh so well.  At times they can consume me and keep me from being able to hear your voice.  Help me to see my pain as an invitation to know you more intimately rather than a reason to doubt the goodness of your heart.  Help me to know that through my pain you desire to accomplish something very good in me.  In the name of Jesus.  Amen.

Scripture Reading for the Day: Psalm 121:1-8

Reading for Reflection:
 
Many of us are tempted to think that if we suffer, the only important thing is to be relieved of our pain.  We want to flee it at all costs.  But when we learn to move through suffering, rather than avoid it, then we greet it differently.  We become willing to let it teach us.  We even begin to see how God can use it for some larger end.  Suffering becomes something other than a nuisance or curse to be evaded at all costs, but a way into deeper fulfillment.  Ultimately mourning means facing what wounds us in the presence of One who can heal. (Turn My Mourning Into Dancing by Henri J. M. Nouwen)

Reflection and Listening: silent and written

Prayer: for the church, for others, for myself
                                 
Closing Prayer: O God, we know that all things are ordered by your wisdom and love; grant us in all things to see your hand; that we may walk with Christ in all simplicity, and serve you with a quiet and contented mind.  Amen. (Venite by Robert benson)

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