By: Tracy L.
During the 3rd week of Advent, we talked about how this week is different from the rest of the weeks.
We reflected on the “Joy” of Advent. Of course, I am a curious one, so I started digging a little bit and came across a passage that was regularly used in relation to this third week of Advent:
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.~ Philippians 4:4-6, NIV
How does this passage relate to our leadership workshop?
Perhaps it doesn’t, but when I think about being joyful and rejoicing, I think about how God has blessed us. The freedom and the privilege to do and try so many different things in life. And He has given us so much: communities, families, friends. A church to worship in. And yet, we can chose to be “too busy” with these things that He has given us to serve and to give back. He hasn’t asked us to give back. And we can choose whether or not we see and respond to these needs.
Pastor Tim talked about minorities today – the invisible communities. We talked about “UREACH”, a website that shows us different types of people in our community. Do we remember who we have forgotten? How can we pray for them? What can we do to help them?
I challenge you to think hard about a person you may have forgotten or have lost contact with. Reconnect and “check in” with them to see how they are doing. Or just pray for them. Share with your small group or your community.