Rejoice and Reflect

“And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” Hebrews 10:24-25a 

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4 

“Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3 

“In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will to you in Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:18  

In his Editor’s Note of the October, 2018 Guideposts, Edward Grinnan suggests, “(Fall is) a good time to take stock, to rejoice and reflect, to forgive, to love, to give thanks.” Many things in life distract us from what truly matters. 

How are we doing in using our time wisely? Do we invest our time in searching God’s Word?  Do we listen for God’s directions for us?

Do we refresh our spirit and body by enjoying the world of nature that God provides us? We can talk to God and become more physically fit at the same time. Or we can “walk and talk” with our spouse, or other family member or friend. Do we rejoice in knowing that God is with us in all of life’s joys and challenges?

Do we forgive those who have hurt us? Do we truly show love to both those easy to love and those not easy to love? Do we express thanks every day, not just as we celebrate Thanksgiving?

After we “take stock, rejoice and reflect, forgive, love, and give thanks,” then we can begin the season of Advent and step into a new year. 

Prayer: God, help us to use our time wisely. Show us how to make every moment matter today and every day. Amen.

Lois Poppe