Does Frosty look nervous to you?
He seemed reluctant to pose for a picture…Something about needing a break from frightened children, and a union contract infringement… I don’t know exactly.
Although you can’t see it in this shot, I had to hold a curling iron to his back as a convincer.
Hello Schuylkill News readers. Thank you for coming!
Now we can continue a conversation I broached at the beginning of January. (see more below)
If you haven’t read the latest (free) issue of Schuylkill-News, click here to find distribution locations, or do a search for “Schuylkill-News,” on this facebook link, to see the full layout.
On this “January Epiphanies” theme, let’s first reflect for a moment on the quote seen in the article:
“Who can listen to a story of loneliness and despair without taking the risk of experiencing similar pains in his own heart and even losing his precious peace of mind? In short: Who can take away suffering without entering it?”-Henri Nouwen (1932-1996)
I encourage you to leave comments, thoughts, questions, or answer in reply to this question I now pose:
*When has someone entered your life or struggles, to help you. Or, when have you done this for someone else? (Anonymous comments are welcome, too.)
*In your opinion, what are some things we learn from these times of surprising grace?
(Prayer)
(Written for individuals, or use in hospice, end of life, or redemptive ministry.)
God,
I know you are my Creator, and I am not simply material that will return to the earth.
I desire peace with you, and to lay my burdens down.
(Here one may add specific concerns, guilt, offenses, or things that have made one’s heart heavy.)
I know you offer me relief, forgiveness, grace, and acceptance, freely–as a gift. I gratefully receive this from you.
You are the Highest, a Three-in-One God, who made me. Out of pure love, you redeemed me before time began, and during human history through the life, death, and resurrection of your Incarnation, The Christ, and you will comfort me with your Presence now. As I leave this world, receive me into your most loving Presence.
I am your child, coming to you.
Amen.
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