Ordinary Time

Pause

Waiting can be very hard.

But sometimes as we wait, God does the most important work in us. Keeping focused and watching carefully for God’s good work in our world can renew us each and every day.

Slow down for a moment, think, reflect, and pray for God’s work as you watch and wait.

Listen

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

You turn us back to dust, and say, “Turn back, you mortals.”

Psalm 90:1-3

Think

One of the greatest gifts of family is to experience multiple generations together. I once had the privilege of enjoying breakfast at my husband’s grandmother’s home. Breakfast at Nana’s was not just food, but an experience. She might start with a bowl of cereal and milk, but then would graciously serve several courses — fresh scrambled eggs, biscuits, cheese slices, bacon, fruit. Getting to be with Nana reminded me that each generation has a specific gift to offer us, and Nana gave me the gift of slowing down and enjoying family and food in a new way.

Today we read that God is the dwelling place for all generations. When we sit at God’s table, there is more to feed us than we could ever imagine. There is more love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and hope than we need. Sometimes we simply must wait until that next course is served. Slow down and savor each way that God is nourishing you. Make God your dwelling place, and enjoy all that comes with being in God’s presence.

Jeanell Cox

Pray

God of all generations, thank you for those people in my life who remind me that you are faithful to each generation. Thank you for the ways you feed me. Help me to wait patiently as you offer to me all that I need. Help me to make you my dwelling place. Amen.

Go

Go in the light, living as a person of the day, including all those around you and yourself in the circle of God’s love. Anticipate the joy of God’s good work in you and in the world. Watch and wait with hope. Amen.