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New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

"A Liturgy for Morning Prayer," Upper Room Worshipbook

Used by permission from the Book of Common Worship, © 2018 Westminster John Knox Press. All rights reserved. This prayer appears in “A Liturgy for Morning Prayer” in Upper Room Worshipbook.

 

Today’s Reflection

Saints have spoken of the “dark night” as a container of holy transformation, a process much broader and richer than a bout with sad feelings. Just as the darkness of the cocoon serves to incubate the growth of the butterfly, so we can use the tough times as rich soil for the growing of our souls. Though we may have to gulp hard to express gratitude for such painful periods, through grace we can be grateful in them, trusting that the holy dark serves as a cocoon rather than a coffin.

—Linda Douty, Rhythms of Growth: 365 Meditations to Nurture the Soul (Upper Room Books, 2014)

Today’s Question

How could viewing the “dark night” as a cocoon change your perspective during difficult circumstances? Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.
—Romans 8:28 (NRSVUE)

Prayer for the Week

Thank you, God, for sun and showers.
Thank you for each lovely flower.
Thank you for each stately tree.
Through all these, you speak to me.
A Gardener’s Prayer
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.

Something More

You don’t have to be at the beach to experience the sea, the sand, the sky, and the glory of the One who created it all. In Beach Calling, author Missy Buchanan’s brilliant descriptions—intertwined artfully with scripture—paint a vivid picture that invites you to a closer, more authentic walk with God. Learn more here.

Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

6 Comments

  • robert moeller Posted April 19, 2024 5:15 am

    The “dark night” is metamorphosis time. Thank You, Lord. Christ makes all things new. The most important event in our faith journey, being born again. Lord help us carry on firmly rooted in our faith in You. Thank You, Lord.

  • Julie Posted April 19, 2024 8:54 am

    H died.

    • Lou Posted April 19, 2024 1:14 pm

      Condolences Julie – but now perhaps you will begin to heal – you have been absence from this space likely dealing with so much regarding him- prayers for you and your healing

  • Rusty Posted April 19, 2024 3:59 pm

    So sorry to hear, Julie. I’m very sorry for your loss. Fervent prayers on the way for you in this difficult time. Please know the UR family is holding you in our hearts.

  • Julie Posted April 19, 2024 5:57 pm

    Oh no everyone. My friends are saying congratulations not condolences at all. I am free of his abuse.

    • Jim Ligon Posted April 22, 2024 3:32 pm

      Julie, I think condolences are still appropriate in the moment. It acknowledges a change in the status quo. Certainly there are some good historical memories you must have of H or you would have never chosen to be with him in the first place. Time, circumstance, and experience have a way of changing people. Sometimes not for the better. My prayer for you today is that you are able to experience the power and comfort of the Holy Spirit in the days ahead to process all that has and is happening. May your find joy and peace in abundance as you determine your way forward to a more pleasant and fulfilling future. Your Servant in Christ, Jim

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