Today’s Reflection
The disciples didn’t understand what Christ’s good news was supposed to look like during the forty days after the crucifixion. The miracle of Jesus was real to his followers but very much a mystery in terms of what would happen next.
We still live in a time of mystery. … We each face living into the mystery of the Christ who has come but who has not yet come again. We each need new and renewed ways of living into this time of not knowing.
—Jane Herring, One Day I Wrote Back: Interacting with Scripture Through Creative Writing (Upper Room Books, 2015)
Today’s Question
Who supports you in establishing new and renewed ways of living in uncertainty? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
Those who know your name put their trust in you,
for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
—Psalm 9:10 (NRSV)
Prayer for the Week
Creator God, I am listening. I am listening.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Come pray with us! Post—or respond to—prayer requests and praise reports on The Upper Room Prayer Wall.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
4 Comments
I have received a tremendous perspective and encouragement in attending both cancer support groups at the two churches. The people who stand strong in the midst of terrifying diagnoses and long term recovery while proclaiming the goodness and faithfulness of God have been such an inspiration to me. “Our light and momentary afflictions.” Truly, we are sojourners here, on our way to our glorious life with our Great Father for eternity. And – the absolute trust in His provisional sovereignty and the incredible assurance He is with us each step of the way. His promise of His presence in all circumstances.
A long bike ride with my sister yesterday afternoon following tennis in the morning. I think I overdid it a bit. But, luckily, my stomach was on its best behavior. I am highly suspicious this may be a gluten intolerance thing. My question is – is it enhanced by either my health condition or my treatment (or where I am in my treatment cycle). Will continue to keep copious notes regarding what I eat and how I am feeling.
Dad and I are golfing today – looks to be a beautiful summer day. Glad we can spend the time together. I may suggest we grab something take-out and eat it on his back patio.
The people here. So much uncertainty amidst this group in terms of circumstances. Jill’s stomach issues and worries for Larry’s health, both physical and emotional. Lou’s uncertainty surrounding her children’s and her own futures. Marcy’s uncertain health and circumstances. Ally and David live mired in the uncertainty of COVID 19 recovery. The list continues. But each and every one never waivers in their belief and their using God as their true north. Ever present and ever strengthening and ever assuring them that his will may be done eventually for their good.
Chai has stomach cancer. He is almost 16 so we have opted out of pursuing chemo, etc. We are giving him steroids which may provide some relief and he did eat this morning on his own. I am ecstatic and can’t wait to tell Megan. Please pray for Chai. Please pray also for Megan as she and Chai are as close as Tazzie and I and she is distraught. Please also pray for Tazzie as he and Chai have been best friends since the womb.
Prayers, thank you and good health dear UR
God is my ever present help. I have felt God’s presence the last few days through the ministry of those who have prayed for David and me. I felt it through my sister, whose visit was a godsend. She left to return home about 30 minutes ago. I miss her already!😥. I am so thankful for God’s tender mercies, which make waiting bearable. I am searching for the joy in the mystery.
David is off oxygen! Respiratory therapist will get him up and walk him. If his oxygen levels stay up, he can come home. Thank you for continued prayers.
Julie, I was thinking just this morning of the challenges everyone in our little family faces and how God has given us what we need to persevere. Know I’m lifting up your home situation as you seek God’s wisdom. You are brave and strong. Of course I’m praying for your little Chai. I’m so thankful he ate a little. God bless him and sweet Tazzie too. I don’t know what I would do without my babies. . Jill, I admire your strength as you work to keep active. May you persevere through your health issues. So many of us who visit here have those. I pray Marcy is getting the care she needs and is back with us soon. Lifting up Robert, Andrea, April, Lou, BJ, Rick, and the folks in the balcony. I was on the balcony for a long time myself😊. I pray for our world In chaos. Lord, help us to look to you for answers. Help your children to espouse peace and work for justice. Keep us safe in Your loving care. In the name of Christ we ask this. Amen.
Who supports you in establishing new and renewed ways of living in uncertainty?
God supports me, all the time, every time.
I hold you each in my prayers and thoughts as you have posted or not, we are all part of the UR Family. May you feel virtual hugs and the hand of Jesus on your shoulder.
This past week, I have been learning more about the Holy Spirit. Is it a coincident that this is occurring so close to Pentecost when Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to the disciples? I think not. I think it is a wake up to me to recognize the power of the Holy Spirit and to call on Him to calm our chaotic world. Asking Him to cover us with a blanket of comfort as we are the church, during this time when church buildings are closed, but not the work of the church. The power of prayer is unfathomable.
It is rainy and cool today, perfect day for soup, books, spending time in thoughtful conversation with God. I have a workbook called the next 5 years. I have had it for a few years and so far I have not done my assignments…lol. Well, today is the day I will start anew and crack it open.
Blessings dear UR Family.
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