Focus

Slow your breathing and become aware of the taking in and letting out of your breath. Focus on putting things aside so you will be open to what God is saying to you today.

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Read

Psalm 90:1-8, 12 (NRSV)

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.”
For a thousand years in your sight
are like yesterday when it is past,
or like a watch in the night.

You sweep them away; they are like a dream,
like grass that is renewed in the morning;
in the morning it flourishes and is renewed;
in the evening it fades and withers.

For we are consumed by your anger;
by your wrath we are overwhelmed.
You have set our iniquities before you,
our secret sins in the light of your countenance.
…
So teach us to count our days
that we may gain a wise heart.

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Reflect

The presence of God is everywhere and eternal. But sometimes we live as though God is not present, especially in difficult times. In times like those, we can find God’s presence in others.

My congregation has a ministry that provides food for those who have had surgery, are home bound, and to families who have welcomed a new child into the world, for example. Women in my church knit or crochet prayer shawls for members who have returned home after a hospital stay. My husband and I have both received a shawl, and have wrapped ourselves in the love of our congregation as we wore the shawls during our recovery time. These are tangible ways in which the presence of God is seen and felt.

As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, let us give thanks for those who have been the presence of God in our lives.

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Pray

God our Creator, we give thanks for people who have shown your presence in our lives. Help us to know that we are never alone, and that we too, can be a presence in the lives of others. Amen.

Go with God.