“God has made everything suitable for its time;” –Ecclesiastes 3:11
One of my morning rituals is to read through the newspaper. Of course there is no shortage of griefs. From droughts and famines, wars and rumors of war. On the days this practice proves more devastating than delightful, I remind myself it is important to be informed; necessary even.
What does it look like to keep going when the weight of the world is upon us? Whether overwhelmed by global events or hurting from devastations in our closest circles, how do we face another day?
Our internet friend, Shannan Martin, names counterweights as one of the ways we keep going. Practices, experiences and connections that invite us to joy and remind us of the good are necessary counter points to the hard things that surround us. Beauty is one way we can stave off despair. A gentle breeze on the face, the vibrant pinks and orange of the setting sun, the golden crust on a loaf of freshly baked bread are all glimpses of beauty. Noticing, naming and holding onto these signposts of good provide a ballast amidst the storms of life.
Open my eyes, O God, to the gifts of beauty that surround me this day. Amen.
Some Comfort and Joy was developed as a devotional resource that follows the rhythms and seasons of the liturgical year from an Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective.
Comfort & Joy: Readings and Practices for Advent is available now! With readings to walk through the Advent and Christmas season, the weekly offerings in Comfort and Joy include a variety of devotional meditations and invitations to spiritual practices that help us slow down and savor this sacred season.
some comfort and joy 