By Jodi Beyeler, vice president for communications and people strategy
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
I know it is so easy to be overwhelmed by what is not good in our world — from racial injustices to intense political polarization to a pandemic that is not over to the mounting effects of climate change…and so much more!
But as we await the arrival of Christ and dare to imagine what God’s goodness awaits us unexpectedly just around the corner, I’d urge you to pause on this day and ask yourself: “Where have I seen signs of God’s goodness lately in my life and in my community?” (Trust me, this will bring you way more joy and peace than any amazing discount those big box stores give you today!) Focusing on prior evidence can help us dare to imagine anew.
Here are five of my answers today:
- the church group gathering with people of all ages last weekend to walk in the woods, listen to poetry and enjoy sticky marshmallows around a warm fire that left me feeling more alive and rooted
- the beauty of Girl Named Tom’s amazing sibling musical harmonies on The Voice music contest this fall and the ways it has connected their communities with pride and anticipation (yes, I might be a little obsessed…two of the sibs are Goshen College graduates)
- the kind smile from a stranger at the grocery store today
- the warm glow of lit candles in my dark home that remind me that the “Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it”
- the feeling of deep gratitude during my two favorite times of the day: snuggling with my 10-year-old son when he first wakes up and as he goes to sleep
So, where have you seen signs of God’s goodness lately in YOUR life and in YOUR community? And then, can you dare to imagine God’s goodness that is yet to come?
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
29Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 34“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, 35like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”