Prayers Advent Reflections

Sunday

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13
Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11; Luke 1:46-54; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, 19-28

I must be honest: I am not exactly a peaceful person. A 'Type A' personality who loves a to-do list and a plan, it is not always my first inclination to trust Jesus. I want to do it myself, work things out as I see fit. I remind myself often of the words of Henri Nouwen, "Peace is a trust that the future is in God's hands, and that we do not have to control everything ourselves."

Despite my weakness, I know deep down in my spirit that the path to true peace is through surrender.

Each of us, no matter our work, is an agent of peace through our presence: a warm smile in the hallway, showing directions to a patient's lost family member, an encouraging word to a struggling colleague, taking extra time to sit with a patient who is fearful, a handwritten note of appreciation to the chaplain who supported you in the death of a loved one. Ministers of peace are walking in our midst every day in every department.

Patty Breen McNeil, MA
Mission Leader
Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital

 

Pause

When faced with uncertainties or fears in our work, ministry and personal lives, are we willing to surrender it all to Jesus?

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.