That they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. John 17:21
In Chapter 17 of the book of John, Jesus calls for unity and protection for all present and future believers.
This first reflection here, in a way, serves as an editor’s note.
In the devotions that follow you’ll find voices of lay people, pastors, executives, counselors, and Reverend Doctors; all of us probably consider ourselves just regular people. Some of us write for a living, others of us find the act of writing a spiritual reflection way out of our comfort zones. A wide variety of traditions are represented here too – Catholic, Presbyterian, Lutheran, and more.
It is my prayer that as together we read through these devotions this Advent, that we will see each other as children of the same heavenly father, and each one of us a unique expression of our Creator.
You may also notice that in some cases there is more than one reflection on the same Bible passage! This was not necessarily by design but personally I really like to read the ways different writers point us to different insights.
Loving Creator, Emmanuel, you are with us always. Give us the faith and awareness of your presence, especially in the moments when we find ourselves most fraught. Bless all who contributed and all who will read these sincere reflections in the coming weeks in our journey to Christmas. Amen
Julia Frank is Director of Community Outreach, Liberty Lutheran and Lutheran Congregational Services
