Christianity Oasis Forum

[Lani]

Colossians 1:11-16
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:



The God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”… has shone in our hearts to give the light of knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (NRSV)




The telephone rang at the parsonage at 12:13 A.M. As I reached through the darkness for the receiver, I said a quick prayer. Calls at that hour often bring news of tragedy. This call was from a parent whose ten-year-old daughter had died suddenly. I quickly dressed and drove to the hospital to be with the grieving family.

Later, as I walked back to my car across the hospital parking lot, I noticed the moon. Clouds had hidden it as I drove to the hospital, but now it shone clearly. As I reflected on this change, I was reminded that even in the darkness God is present. Tragedy, sorry, and loss may obscure God’s face, but God is never absent. God is always with us.

It is our God who is always with us who will bring healing to this family whose child died. This God who is always present strengthens our weak knees, mends our broken hearts, and gives us strength when we are weary. In the season of Advent, we prepare ourselves to welcome the One who is always coming to us, always present with us.



Prayer: God of all grace, when clouds obscure your face, help us to remember that you are always present. Open our eyes, ears, and hearts to you. Amen.

Prayer Focus of Day: Families facing the first Christmas after the death of a child.

Thought for the Day: Advent reminds us to open our lives to our God, who is always present.

Story shared by: D. Wilkinson (LA)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 12/1/11

[logi bear]

I think God may have had you post this just for me : )