Prayers Advent Reflections

Friday

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11    
Isaiah 48:17-19; Psalm 1; Matthew 11:16-19

Wisdom, blessing and peace come from following God's commands, meditating upon them, and planting ourselves near God's life-giving water. If we immerse ourselves in God's wisdom and justice, surely goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives! But the readings for today don't stop there. They also reveal how John the Baptist and Jesus were misunderstood and mocked by "this generation."

How often do we feel misunderstood? What is our response when we feel as though our integrity is being challenged or questioned? How do we respond to those times in which someone intentionally or unintentionally misunderstands or misrepresents our words, actions or intent? Jesus and John knew these feelings well.

During such times, we would do well to recall the final proclamation in today's Gospel reading: "But Wisdom is vindicated by her works." Living our lives by the wisdom of the Gospel won't always be easy, and at times we will be misunderstood. But we live with the knowledge and hope that God's kingdom and peace are revealed in our steadfast devotion to God's wisdom and love one decision at a time.

Bret Reuter, MDiv, MA
Director of Mission Integration
Essentia Health

Pause

When I feel frustrated and misunderstood, how can I once again plant myself near God's life-giving water, and rest in God's love and peace?

Pray

God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.