| Often when Jesus was asked questions concerning heaven, the Kingdom of God, and other theological issues, he answered them with stories about a wounded stranger, a persistent door knocker, and a hungry drop-in guest. Maybe it was because Jesus knew that much of a person’s God-talk is nothing more than spiritual deflection. How often do we jump headfirst into the things of God only to avoid the personal presence of God in the hurt and hungry people that cross our paths? Shocking, more than we care to admit for we see what we want to see. Perhaps Jesus knows our preoccupation with the things of glory is really a diversion from having to deal personally with families and friends in whom God is present. As I write this, I’m reflectively praying, “Lord, how many times am I guilty of deflection?” Sad as it is to admit, more times than not. Instead of vilifying and categorizing others with labels only to write them off, maybe the better action, the more spiritual behavior, is to see how God is working in those same people that are labeled. What strikes me is the central heart disposition that it takes to begin the journey of following Jesus is the same disposition needed for every step taken on that journey. It is and will always be, “It’s me, it’s me standing in the need of prayer.” When this is my spiritual mantra, my vision is clear, and I can see God’s presence all over the place—even in those that are vilified. It is not by chance that the proclamation of the Messiah’s birth was given to the meek and lowly: Shepherds, a peasant girl and her fiancé, and Magi nomads. Many would have looked past those types of people never to notice their presence, yet it was in them that God did his work.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – Luke 1 *Tuesday – Luke 2 *Wednesday – Luke 3 *Thursday – Luke 4 *Friday – Luke 5 Prayer Requests: *Families traveling this holiday season. *Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. *Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. *Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. *Guidance for those seeking to find their way. *Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |