Christmas Day, December 25, 2022

Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars! Praise him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! Psalm 148: 3-4

In Luke’s Gospel, we read about Jesus healing a bent-over woman [13:10-17]. This poor soul had a malformation of her back that limited her vision to a small area around her feet. I think that this woman is a wonderful symbol for many people today who have no physical impairment but have a very limited outlook on life. Such people often are so self-involved that they see none of the beauty of life, nor do they feel any sense of joy and gratitude. 

Psalm 148 is part of the Psalter’s concluding section that calls for praise to the Lord. This Psalm focuses on God’s control of the created order, as reason for our praise. So it is that we see the sun, the moon, the shining stars inspiring us to join them in praising the God that created it all and continues to give us life. 

When we look at the heavens and the wonder with which everything works in precision, how can we not be moved to give thanks? But still, we know that ever-shrinking numbers of people actually do break in upon their life order to gather with others for that simple act of Praising the Name of the Lord! 

I am saddened to see a fearful decline in worship attendance. Some folks will say that they have stopped going to church because … “they don’t get anything out of it.” That is not the point ~ worship is our determination to break in upon the craziness of life for the pure purpose of joining the sun, and the moon, and the stars, in giving praise to God! 

St. Francis of Assisi, 8th century monk, composed his glorious Canticle of the Sun to capture the radiance and delight we find in Psalm 148. In this song, Francis calls to the sun, wind, and fire as brother and to the moon, waters, and earth as sister. I conclude my thoughts with a quote from this great hymn:

Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures, especially through my lord Brother Sun, who brings the day; and you give light through him. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor! Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness. Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; in the heavens you have made them, precious and beautiful. Amen. 

The Rev. Roy Almquist is the retired Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA (1994-2006). He and his wife Shannon live at Shannondell at Valley Forge in Audubon.

Christmas Eve, December 24, 2022

The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. Psalm 146:8-NRSVUE

Readers of this passage may focus on praising God for the great deeds God does, especially if we are righteous and trust in God. I don’t disagree, but is there a deeper takeaway? 

I find it easy to read this passage and be conflicted. Conflicted between belief in God and the reality I see around me. Sadly, rather than be conflicted, I may unconsciously dismiss the passage as idealistic church-speak. 

God does wonderful things! Food for the hungry, justice for the oppressed, setting prisoners free, healing the blind, lifting broken spirits, advocating for the orphan and widow. 

Scripture frequently supports that God desires these ideals. Many have their hope in God bringing release to their plight. But do we limit our thinking that God does this apart from any help from the Kingdom of God as a whole? 

Ensuing chapters suggest that the whole of Creation, stars of the universe down to microscopic living creatures, with humans at the center, fight for God’s justice, waging shalom throughout all of Creation, toward the fruition of God’s Kingdom. 

Armies of God’s humans work today, helping those struggling with life after disaster. It can be painfully difficult to find the sight of God directly at work bringing release from the prisons of inadequate housing, food, healthcare, and lost hope. But indirectly, God IS visibly at work through the lives of everyday humans, working to help those who painfully struggle with their reality in the whole of all Creation. 

God’s creation, synergistically working together for good, brings ultimate HOPE of the Kingdom of God on Earth into the present, persuading us to majestically say with the last verse of Psalms, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!” 

As if to shout, “HALLELUJAH, ANYWAY!” No matter the reality we currently perceive.

Thank you Spirit, that today we can see with greater clarity the works of God directly toward the Kingdom of God, through God incarnate in the Christ child. May we plainly see streets of despair and pain, but be transformed to the mind of Christ. Inspired by the Holy Spirit within, may we lovingly follow Christ, and joyfully continue the journey of our individual callings. Evoking shouts of HOPE and uncontained JOY, working with Jesus, toward the coming KINGDOM OF GOD inaugurated by Christ, “HALLELUJAH, ANYWAY !!” Amen. 

Rev. Allen Keller is an Ordained UM Deacon in Full Connection, currently called to the role of Disaster Recovery Case Manager.

Friday, December 23, 2022

When you see these things take place, stand erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand. Luke. 21:28

A good question is: What are these things referring to? Sure, they are the incidents Jesus described in previous verses – cosmic signs, nations in agony, bewilderment by the clamor of ocean and its waves; men dying of fear as they await what menaces the world…the powers of heaven being shaken. 

For goodness sake, all these are what should make someone despondent instead of raising any hope; they should rather make the heads bend in utter disappointment instead of keeping heads high and erect. Yet, Jesus courageously tells us to pick up courage, hold our heads high and “be glad” for our liberation is at hand. What an irony! 

We as humans panic most when hard times impend. We are gripped with fear when things seem eerily too mundane. 

Using traditional music and cultural dances as an illustration, a close observation shows that when the music tempo gets hotter and faster, the dancers become more wild and get a bit violent, which signals the music is about to end, and then there will be some rest finally. 

You may be experiencing some of this frenzy at this time now that the year is packing up. The music of life may be playing faster and more fearful for you. The question would be: why me this time that the year is almost ended? I thought I should be heaving a sigh of relief by now. 

God’s words are: “when you see all these things happening, hold your head high, stand erect for your liberation is at hand."

Blessed are those who do not give up on the Son of Man in time of adversity. Stand erect. There is light at end of that tunnel. Maranatha...Come Lord Jesus, Come! Amen. 

Sr. Christa Mcgill is a resident at Paul’s Run. 

Thursday, December 22, 2022

But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:4-5 

Titus writes his letter to a Christian community persecuted by the Greco-Roman pagan majority. The people in the community felt desperate, angry, downtrodden, or vulnerable at the injustice they faced from Roman authorities. 

Titus writes to encourage the community and outline a strategy for them to continue to live with their pagan neighbors. In the verse before, he reminds his Gentile readers that they aren’t perfect. They have also been “disobedient, misled, slaves… of passions and vices” instead of trusting in God’s grace. Instead of focusing on their hardships, he reminds them of the gifts God has already given them. 

I can be like Titus’s disobedient readers. Sometimes, I am forgetful. Sometimes, I am lazy. At this time of year, I can be selfish and overwhelmed with the trappings of the holiday season. But Titus reminds us all that Jesus comes to save us in spite of our bad behavior. 

God’s grace is given freely, through baptism, and renewed by the Holy Spirit. No matter what we do, we are never separated from the love of God. Titus reminds us to take that love and share it, spreading the Good News of God’s grace come to us in Jesus. How lucky are we that God came to us, made us righteous, and now sends us out to share that love with the world? 

Dear Lord, Thank you for your unending grace and perfect love. Help us to share that love with others as we navigate the trials and tribulations of daily life. Amen. 

Heidi Shilanskas is Seminarian at United Lutheran Seminary and Youth Director at Star of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Bethlehem, Pa. 

Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his home on a rock; and the rain fell and the floods came and the winds blew and beat upon that house, but the house did not fall because it had been founded on the rock…. Matthew 7:24-25

It seems as if our world these last few years has been nothing short of chaotic. Between a pandemic and civil/political unrest, it seems everywhere we look there is something unstable. In times like these, it’s easy to want to give up, “hoping for the best.” It’s also easy to forget to remember our roots, and how deep and sturdy they are. 

In Advent, we are called to remember those roots and make time for focusing on our faith. While Scripture continuously reinforces preparation—“The days are coming” (Jeremiah 33), “Be vigilant” (Luke 21), “Prepare the way of the Lord” (Luke 3)— I find my days and nights are filled with Christmas, not Advent. Christmas cookies, decorations, dinner - but why? 

Because I forget. By the time the third Sunday in Advent rolls around, I’ve forgotten my pre-Advent promise to do better. Once Thanksgiving is over, I’m immersed (literally!) in baking ingredients. As I start singing, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” I’ve already worked myself into a state of exhaustion, ready for Christmas to be over. Once again I’ve doomed myself to this busy, yet somewhat unfulfilling repeat episode of life and faith. 

On the rock, however, we are steadfast and our roots are deep. If we can remember that our faith is built upon an unceasingly stable rock, maybe there’s still time to recover, remember our collective history, and change directions. In spite of the chaos and pandemics of our lives, Christ is the rock and his birth sets that in motion for our future, and the future of God’s kingdom. May this season be a reminder that in Christ we are firm and safe, and that Christ is coming - what a sacred day it will be.

Holy God, help us to remember that in you is where we are safe and our roots deeply planted. In you is our strength and refuge in times of trouble. May Jesus arrive and renew us this season, Amen. 

Michelle Wildridge is Chaplain at Paul’s Run.

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

And have mercy on some who are wavering (NRSV). Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Jude 22-The Message

One of the ways I serve Lutheran Congregational Services and Liberty Lutheran is by teaching the Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training class. Although we are not always serving those who are hesitating or wavering in the faith, the ministry can enhance a person’s faith journey, and not just those who are being visited, but the visitors as well. 

Every time a visitor goes out to take communion to someone, both parties are reminded of serving and caring for others. One of the best ways we can stand with those who may be wavering in faith is to be a companion in faith, and sharing Holy Communion is a very personal way that we are the embodiment of Christ. 

Each time we visit, share Holy Communion, have a conversation, or serve someone, we may be blessing them. Our visits may be life-affirming, even faith-affirming, sometimes to the one being visited, sometimes to the visitor. 

We never know when someone’s faith may be wavering or weak. We never know when an action of ours may be life-changing for someone else. All we can do is sow Mercy. Sow Faith. Sow Pardon. Sow Grace. Look for the blessings every day.

Dear God, Allow us to see the blessings each day and to be a blessing whenever we visit with one of your children. Amen. 

Pastor Sandra Brown is Interim Pastor, Good Shepherd Southampton, trainer for Lutheran Congregational Services’ Lay Eucharistic Visitor training, and member of Liberty’s Advancement Committee.

Monday, December 19, 2022

Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a dead calm. They were amazed, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?” Matthew 8:26-27

Trepidation is an all too common feeling. The disciples exhibited their fear and anxiousness over the impending storm. They rushed to awaken a resting Jesus to rescue them. Once aware of what was happening, Jesus was confused. He did not understand their trepidation. He felt as though they should have known that He would save them. 

Why was there doubt in their minds? He wanted the disciples to trust and believe in Him. They should be assured that they could believe in Him. 

Jesus goes on to rebuke the winds and sea. There is an immediate calm that comes over everything. 

What an amazing story! Can you imagine the wonder of it all? Yet, even with all of the miracles that we have seen through Jesus, we still tend to believe in him with trepidation. We allow our fear and anxieties to outweigh the good work that we do. We still question that Jesus is leading us down the correct path. 

Instead, we should do the opposite. We should move forward while letting our good intentions lead the way, all the while being prayerful that we are moving as God would intend. 

Let’s walk in faith and trust. 

Lord Jesus, grant us faith and courage to believe in you always. When doubt and trepidation creep into our hearts, send your Spirit to calm the storm and guide us forward. Amen. 

Rose Richardson is Executive Director of LCFS and the West Philadelphia Senior Community Center.

Saturday/Sunday, December 17 & 18, 2022

For this reason, He had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17

Life is good, but not all the time. We’re always going to experience trials and trouble. As the verse for today tells us, Jesus experienced everything humans experience—trials, temptations, and the lure of sin—just as we do. We must remember, however, that Jesus never gave into temptation, and therefore, He never sinned. 

In order to be true to His duty of saving God’s chosen ones, Jesus came down to earth as a man—born into the world just as we are. Jesus had to experience all aspects of being human so that He can relate to us in our trials and troubles. Because of that, we know He feels what we feel when we go through difficulties. We can look to Jesus for help and strength in times of trouble because He knows how we are feeling. A little further on, in verse 18, it says: Because He himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. 

Jesus left His heavenly throne in order to make Himself humankind’s redeemer. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the payment for sin is satisfied, and we can approach God boldly in prayer. Sending Jesus into the world is truly God’s mercy and love at its best—our debt for sin is satisfied and God loves us. 

Almighty God, we thank you for being our redeemer. Help us to share this good news with everyone, especially during the Advent season! Amen. 

Chris Naessens is Administrative Assistant for Human Resources, Liberty Lutheran.

Friday, December 16, 2022

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul! I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long. Psalm 146: 1-2

Having grown up with music in my life, and singing in church from practically the time I could speak, it’s easy for me to take this passage literally; that the Psalmist is extolling us to “SING!” In a broader sense, “to sing someone’s praise” is to acknowledge the good works things they’ve done. 

The most commonplace way to praise another is to say “Thank you”; and convention says that the more personal the acknowledgment, the more sincere it is. In this vein, the Psalmist goes on to acknowledge God, “who made heaven and earth and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever; who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry,” (verses 6-7). 

Conversely, an impersonal word of thanks often falls flat. Think about when we say “thank god” generally in relief of receiving some good news or averting a problem or accident. Possibly, this Psalm is a reminder to expand on that thought and be mindful of the blessings we enjoy and truly thank and praise the Lord. 

Today, with the state of the world, the environment, racial and political divisions, international crises, and economic problems, it can be challenging to find the energy for praise and thanks. It’s easy to become depressed, and praising God becomes difficult. 

While we might not be able to make major shifts in the ills that influence us, many believe that finding things in life for which to be thankful can lift depressive tendencies. Scientists say that taking time to be thankful shifts the endorphins in the brain. But could it also be the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit? In praising God, we open ourselves to God’s love, enabling us to better love our neighbors and act in keeping with God’s will. 

God, we praise you. Send Your love and the Holy Spirit to lift us up to live more fully in Your grace. Amen. 

Cyndee Folk is a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Glenside.

Thursday, December 15, 2022

As an example of suffering and patience, brothers and sisters, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. James 5:10

With chaos all around us, this seems like good advice. The effects of global warming make me wonder what the world will be like in thirty years when my granddaughters are grown. And what of the war in Ukraine, division in our country, and COVID, with compounding health complications? 

There is much to be suffered through and we need guidance on how to persevere. OK, be patient, accept that there will always be suffering, poverty, injustice, and uncertainties. Prophets had very helpful things to say about patience in both the Old and New Testaments, but here is what I think… 

We can acknowledge suffering but also use it to motivate us to take action, even in insurmountable odds. The Sanctuary Village board members have been working to build homes for people who are unhoused in Philadelphia for several years now. I’ve been told many times that what we are doing is “very hard”, and “never been done before”, and there are many obstacles to overcome. 

But I believe you have to work for what is just and right every day, no matter how small. We all need to do this, working together to make the world a better place. We must work to relieve suffering, not just tolerate it. In so doing, let us be inspired by the words of a prophet like Isaiah (41:10):

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God give me the strength today to do your will. Give me quiet so I can hear your voice, and vision to see the steps you want me to take. Grant me the patience to accept my own fears and shortcomings, and the faith to know that you will guide me and bear me forward. Amen. 

Catherine Farrell is a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Hatfield. She is Board President of Sanctuary Village, a non-profit working to build Philadelphia’s first tiny house village as a step toward alleviating homelessness. 

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Truly I tell you, among those born of women, no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist, yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Matthew 11:11

During the Advent season, we look forward to the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us hope that our excitement and joy can be like the leaping of John the Baptist in his mother’s womb, when Mary, the mother of Jesus, entered the room during her visit to Elizabeth. 

In today’s Bible verse, Jesus states that John is greater than all that have been born before, including all the prophets of the Old Testament. At the birth of Jesus, the New Testament begins to give light into the world and the way that we can enter the new kingdom of heaven, so that yet the least of those in the kingdom will be greater than John. 

John was born into the world before Jesus’s mission on this earth was accomplished. This made the way for us to be born again. The least of those in heaven are greater than the man, John the Baptist, is on earth. 

We may not think we are equipped to be God’s Hands, that it should be someone smarter, stronger, and more experienced. But I have found insight and wisdom from people that I was supposed to be assisting after a disaster, who instead assisted me by strengthening my faith. One woman had so many holes in her roof that she was running out of buckets to catch the water, but her faith and witness are something that not only will I remember, but certainly so will every volunteer that she encountered. She gave me and others more in spirit than we could ever give in materials or labor. 

Dear Lord Jesus, help us look forward to Christmas as a miracle and jump for joy as John the Baptist did. Help us share that excitement and love with everyone that we encounter, giving them an insight into the love that Christ shares with everyone in unexpected ways and circumstances. Amen 

Jeannie Peercy is National Trainer & Consultant for Lutheran Disaster Response.

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Matthew 3:4 

John the baptizer is an unusual character. His fashion sense and favorite foods have never been in style, even as a momentary fad. With his camel hair clothing bound by a strap of leather and his diet of locusts and wild honey, John was an outcast and a rebel: a radical as wild and unkempt as the wilderness where he lived and preached. 

Today, John’s prominent place in the story announcing the coming of Jesus and the arrival of the kingdom of heaven remains far outside of what we consider elegant: in society and even in our practice of Christianity. John’s appearance reminds us of the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1:8), letting us know that John was continuing God’s work on the margins of human societies. 

Our world—including you and me—constantly falls short of, and runs away from, what God wants for all of creation. God desires that every person—regardless of where they are born and what circumstances they face—can live a life filled with the dignity of being created in God’s image. When we have the compassion, courage, and resolve to step outside of what this world sees as elegant or proper and join John and the prophets on the margins, we are actively announcing and building the kingdom of heaven and the presence of Jesus in the broken places of our world. 

Where are the margins God is calling you to share the presence of Jesus? Who lives there? What do they need to be set free from? Is it ongoing cycles of dehumanizing poverty, violence, or bigotry? Is it the sudden shock of a life-altering disaster? In a world that is crying out for something better than we see every day, how can you join God in bringing good news? 

God of the margins and the outcast, turn our attention toward that which breaks your heart. Give us courage and resolve to step beyond what this world deems elegant and equip us to take actions that announce your presence. Amen. 

The Rev. Matt Staniz is Lead Pastor of Saint Luke Lutheran Church in Devon, Pennsylvania.

Monday, December 12, 2022

Indeed, over all the glory there will be a canopy. It will serve as a pavilion, a shade by day from the heat and a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain. Isaiah 4:6

As I studied the book of Isaiah, it became evident that the prophet Isaiah played a huge part in God’s plan. He foretold the Messiah’s coming and brought hope to His people during a challenging time. This promise of hope is not only for the nation of Israel, but also for all of us. 

As a bereavement counselor for many years, I have come to believe that God assigns special roles for people and then gives them the knowledge and skill to carry out His plan. I love the part of this verse that calls for a “pavilion” to protect people from the heat and the storm. 

So many times in my grief counseling I start to realize that my job is to receive the grieving, broken-hearted souls that come to me...and then be a “listening, open and compassionate” person for them. It is not my job to have the answers to their sad questions, but for me to LISTEN and show them LOVE. 

I truly believe that “WE are what God is doing here on earth!” We can be his hands, his feet, his eyes, and his love. When “broken people” sit with me in a group or in an appointment, I whisper a silent prayer that God will help me to be a “canopy” to shelter them from the deep recesses of grief. He is ever faithful. 

Good and gracious God, You invite all who are suffering to come to You. Please allow us to realize that each of us can be a part of the canopy of your love and protection. Touch our hearts with courage and infinite love for all. Teach us all to reach out to you in our grief. Amen. 

Sylvia Havlish is grief counselor for Lutheran Congregational Services.

Saturday/Sunday, December 10 & 11, 2022

As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. Genesis 8:22

This text is God’s promise to Noah after the waters of the flood receded and Noah had made a burnt offering that pleased the Lord. I was struggling a bit with how to relate this to the season of hope and expectation. Then, I read a sermon on the text that said that this was a story of resting. Just as God rested after the work of creation, here Noah and his family could rest. 

What would be the indication? God promises to restore order. The flood would not return. There would be the natural order of seasons, and days, of growth. It’s a comforting thought, isn’t it? Because the reality is that flood times always seem to come. We all experience times of turmoil when life seems out of balance. Can this text serve to remind us that God is present in the storm? Can it help us reflect on God’s desire to restore us when we are weary? In the midst of all the social demands of this time of year, can Advent give us permission to rest and be in awe of the God whose promise is about to be incarnate in Jesus? 

This coming of Jesus isn’t brought about by our activity, or even our preparation, but by God’s covenant promise- Word made flesh. 

God of steadfast love, help us to rest long enough to see, hear and know the awesome promise that you give us in the birth of your Word on earth living among us. Keep us from so much business that we fail to sense the restoring power of your blessed presence. Amen. 

The Rev. Ghislaine Cotnoir is Director of Pastoral Care at The Hearth at Drexel and Artman.

Friday, December 9, 2022

They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Isaiah 2:4

We live in a world where the Covid-19 pandemic has affected all of our lives, turning us upside down and inside out. We talk about a “new” normal, but no one really knows what that is. We are confronted as a global community by global warming, countries at war with one another, and countries at war with themselves. Much of our population goes to bed hungry and struggles to live in a safe environment because the threat of a nuclear disaster is ever present, though it may be subliminal. What does all of this have to do with Advent? 

Advent is preparation time for us to take stock of our spiritual lives and find out where we stand with God, neighbor, and self. All of us have swords and spears in our lives; I know that I do in mine. The swords are nonacceptance of those around me as my brothers and sisters created in God’s image and likeness; not taking care of the earth; not giving to the poor or helping out the stranger in my midst; not visiting the lonely or feeding the hungry. The spears are the backbiting that I do either alone or with others; the neglect of those in harm’s way; not giving of myself. 

It is time to turn all of these negatives into plowshares and pruning hooks; that is, to cultivate a more Christian attitude toward my brothers and sisters and let God help me to cut away that which hinders my being a loving and caring person. 

God, please help me to walk in your presence and ready myself for the coming of our Savior. Amen.

Sr. Anne Kelly, a resident of Paul’s Run.

Thursday, December 8, 2022

Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 124:8

In Psalm 124, David exclaims, “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side…then the flood would have swept us away; the torrent would have gone over us; then over us would have gone the raging waters.” 

Like many who do disaster response work, I got involved in this work following Hurricane Katrina, when I went with my home church, Trinity Lutheran, Lansdale, Pa, as a volunteer to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. 

Within a year I found myself employed in the Lutheran Disaster Response program at Liberty Lutheran Services, tasked with organizing Lutheran congregations and other partners in response to disasters here in Pennsylvania. It has been over 15 years now responding to named storms like Irene, Lee, Sandy, Maria, Isaias, Ida, Fiona, and unnamed storms like the Valentine’s Day ice storm of 2014, the August 2018 floods, and the July 12, 2021 storm. 

It makes me sad that many people have literally been swept away by flood waters. I do not believe it is because God is not on their side as we might conclude from a quick reading of David’s words. Yet, I can’t say that I have any understanding as to why some are swept away and some are not. But I can say that many survivors I’ve met over the years inspire me with their faith. Lemuel Bannister from the Eastwick neighborhood, whose whole first floor was obliterated in Isaias in 2020, reminded me that Jesus is our Way Maker. His faith is strong. He reminded me that there is much that we can do to further God’s Kingdom now, in Jesus’s name, to save people from the torrents and raging waters. We can learn about historic land use injustices, seek legislation to protect the most vulnerable, and work to stop climate change. 

Great Way Maker, remind us all that whatever torrents we face, that you are always our help. Amen. 

Julia Menzo is Director of Lutheran Congregational Services and Lutheran Disaster Response – Eastern PA. 

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

The night is far gone; the day is near. Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12

For those of us who live in the Northern Hemisphere, the convergence of Advent and the longest, darkest days of the year maybe helps make the point of the season. Many times our residents share that when night comes and one cannot sleep, it is often a time of deep anxiety- “too much time to think”, one resident relates. On these winter nights, the wait for daylight can seem very long indeed. 

This text, as becomes apparent in the next verse, is referring to behaviors of which one might be ashamed in the light of day. However, as we reflect just on this one verse, here in the midst of Advent, I wonder if we might reflect just on the day that is near. The day of salvation. The time of hope. The moment of birth that ends the waiting and brings new life. Is that not the armor of God’s love and light? 

When life seems like a long night of anxiety, or shame, or trauma, or fear, or grief, or whatever you are carrying, here is God, sending a new day shining with the Christ glow that washes over us wearing the garment of God’s blessing and love. 

Loving God of new days, bless us in the season, when night is long, with the assurance of what is to come, that we may live in hope and peace. Amen. 

The Rev. Ghislaine Cotnoir is Director of Pastoral Care at The Hearth at Drexel and Artman.

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so, too, will be the coming of the Son of Man. Matthew 24: 38-39 

I tend not to like surprises. I mean, some are ok, like birthday greetings, or flowers that come unexpectedly. But generally, I like to be prepared. I want the dishes done when company arrives. I like to have something to offer an unexpected guest. That, of course, means that I have to do some planning. Our residents tell stories of the importance of a well-stocked pantry. “You never know,” is the mantra. 

Advent is a season of getting ready. The season asks us- are you ready to meet your God? Are you mindful that the time and place are unknown and unknowable? The preparation we are called to is deeper than an annual “baby shower’ to be prepared for Jesus’s birth. Not that this yearly preparation and retelling of the event of Jesus’s birth is a bad thing. It is important and joyful and fills us with hope. But there is more. Advent reminds us and awakens us to the reality that to be prepared for Jesus is a daily way of life. It is a mindfulness of mortality. It is a willingness to be ready at all times. 

Often, our residents are more comfortable than we expect in conversations about life, and about death. Many of them are at an age where they have, at least fleetingly, faced the reality of death. They have experienced loss. It is not that they are anxious for this life’s end. It is not that they do not find joy in life. It is not that they have no fear. But, for some at least, it is about having prepared hearts. The thing that can be learned here- preparation does not invite the unexpected. Preparation allows peaceful living in the time of waiting for the Lord. 

King of Peace, prepare our hearts, minds and spirits to live faithfully as we await Christmas and every day. Amen. The Rev. 

Ghislaine Cotnoir is Director of Pastoral Care at The Hearth at Drexel and Artman.

Monday, December 5, 2022

The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord! Job 1: 20

The Book of Job is a dramatic treatment of the suffering of the innocent. Job was very holy and prosperous but in one day a messenger told him that his livestock was carried off in a raid, his servants were murdered, a fire consumed his sheep and servants and, worst of all, his sons and daughters had a house fall upon them from a great wind, and they were dead. Job was then struck with severe boils all over his body and his health deteriorated. Even when his wife and three friends advise Job to curse God, he would not renounce God nor would he sin. 

During the past two years we have been besieged with a worldwide pandemic, a refugee crisis, unemployment, homelessness, floods, fires, gun violence throughout the United States, and a war in the Ukraine. A multitude of people have experienced catastrophes and feel as Job did in dire circumstances. 

Together, we must realize that during these hard times in the valley of life we need God in our lives more than ever. Rather than renounce God, we must be steadfast in our loyalty to Him. The ultimate test of each of us is not in times of comfort, but in times of challenge. As we stand together in unity, we are grateful for the scientists, doctors, nurses, police, and firefighters who make tremendous sacrifices to heal and protect us through these turbulent times. God has bestowed upon us unique gifts to help each other through tribulation so we may become stronger, wiser, and more humane to each other. This too shall pass and we will be restored. 

The joy of God is everlasting. Lord, grant me patience and strength. Amen. 

Abby Kleiman, a resident at Paul’s Run.

Saturday/Sunday, December 3 & 4, 2022

May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6

Paul addresses a church in conflict with itself. The Jews of early Christianity were fixated on laws that dictated food, festivals and customs, while Gentiles were caught up in a past filled with cults, pagan gods, and superstitions. 

Unfortunately, some things never change. Today the church is full of political and cultural division. And like the early Christians, that divisiveness often comes from our differences. 

Across the globe, we are all created in God’s image, representing different backgrounds and experiences that shape our character, values, beliefs and perspective on life. Yet, how often do we arrogantly think that our world view is the only right one? 

I believe this is Paul’s message to us. Harmony is singing the same song, but in different parts in order to add depth and vibrancy to the melody. Outside of the melody, however, each part isn’t necessarily a pleasing sound, and often the song itself is unrecognizable. 

How are we glorifying God if we’re belting out our part to drown out the parts we disagree with? If others cannot hear the pleasant melody of God’s song, how can they enjoy the song? Odds are they tune it out and search other places for spiritual meaning. 

Paul preaches that patience, tenderheartedness, encouragement, and love can unify us. If we look past our differences, we will sing in harmony with one voice. “Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we, Let all within us praise His holy name. Fall on your knees, Oh hear the angel voices.” [O, Holy Night] 

God of steadfastness and encouragement, grant us tender hearts and unified voices to sing in harmony, so that, with a thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, Christ our King is born. Amen. 

Patty Cline is Director of Advancement for Liberty Lutheran.

Friday, December 2, 2022

O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord. Isaiah 2:5

Small glimpses of walking in the light across Liberty throughout the year:

• Residents at the Hearth knit blankets for those in the local community who need them so that they know the warmth of compassion.
• Volunteers and staff recreate prom at Artman so that residents like Ginny and Bill can dance once again while reminiscing about their last prom together in 1956.
• Dedicated heroes help survivors of disasters find temporary shelter and walk with them through the long journey of rebuilding their lives.
• Nancy and Bob, residents at the Village, devote much of their lives in prison ministry, offering hope to those who are incarcerated, helping them chart a path for a good life to follow.
• The community service club at Paul’s Run works tirelessly to make and package food or assemble personal hygiene bags for some of the most vulnerable among us, offering much more than necessities – an extension of love and respect.
• Ms. Talbot at the West Philadelphia Senior Community Center wears many hats and volunteers wherever she’s needed so that older adults get what they need and have a warm, welcoming place to come so that they’re not staying home in isolation.
• Ed, a resident at the Manor, eagerly and joyfully leads several projects in the community, providing energy and fun to nurture hearts and souls.
• Sylvia, grief counselor for Lutheran Congregational Services, listens to and encourages those who are grieving a loss, providing comfort and peace.

Regardless of where each of us are in our personal journey through life, even the smallest gestures of kindness and compassion shine brightly as we walk in the light of the Lord. 

God of Jacob, we give you thanks for people who walk in your light, leading the way. May we, too, with wisdom and courage, walk in your light so that others may see and follow. Amen. 

Excerpts taken from some of the many stories about the Liberty family as recorded in recent publications. 

Thursday, December 1, 2022

 By faith, Noah, warned by God about events as yet unseen, respected the warning and built an ark to save his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir to the righteousness that is in accordance with faith. Hebrews 11:7 

In The Message translation of the passage from Hebrews, it says that “By faith, Noah built a ship in the middle of dry land. He was warned about something he couldn’t see, and acted on what he was told.” How many of us have done the same thing? Isn’t that what we celebrate during Advent – the promise of the Christ child coming into our lives? Something unseen, but something we have believed and, perhaps, acted on through lives of helping others in service. We are the disciples of that Christ child. 

When my husband and I were told about 20 years ago that he needed to have his failing heart valve replaced, doctors explained that the procedure was more risky than before, for a lot of reasons. And, I remember saying to the surgeon, “I’m not worried, Doctor, because I have a lot of faith in God and everything will be all right.” The concerned doctor cautioned that even with faith in God, things might still go wrong, but I assured him that faith in God would help us deal with whatever happened. 

In my work as a pastor, as a chaplain, as a volunteer for Lutheran Disaster Response, I have witnessed countless people telling me the same thing. Through unexpected illness or family tragedy, through instances of dealing with destruction from hurricanes and flood waters, I’m always amazed at the acclamations of faith that I hear from people dealing with uncertainty and heartache. It seems to be the difference between an unbelieving world and the feeling of “rightness” of a believing world, as Hebrews tell us. Our faith truly is the creation of an intimate relationship with a God who loves us and wants us to enjoy the peace that only God can bring.

Faithful God, thank you for being with us through all things and for helping our faith in you to flourish and grow. Amen. 

Pastor Paulette Obrecht serves on the Lutheran Congregational Services’ Advisory Board and is a volunteer for Lutheran Disaster Response.