Wednesday, 31 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 32)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Wednesday, December 31st, 2014)
By Susanne Timpani
'In the beginning was the Word...
The Word is Jesus. Jesus was present in the beginning, long before He was born in a stable.
...and the Word was with God...
From the beginning Jesus and God were with each other.
..and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
Jesus and the Father are one.
He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and apart from Him nothing was made.'(John 1:2-3)
Without Jesus nothing exists.
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. (John 1:14)
God sent Jesus into our world.
An imperfect commitment.
We have arrived at the end of the 32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge. Well done for the commitment to make this journey. I will be honest and declare that some days my prayer was snatched: in my car as I pulled up to work, praying while rushing through my cereal, conscious of the need to get out the door.
Christmas chaos.
Since our last child is young we still attend the chaotic family mass and the associated nativity play. This doesn't always go to plan and the noise level in the church is definitely a notch higher than usual. Yet who is to say that this mass was any less prayerful than the midnight mass celebrated in the great cathedrals and churches around the world?
Prayerful chaos
We are not in a position to judge the value of another person's - or congregation's - prayer.
Prayer snatched in the midst of the chaos of life must surely have the same value as those times when we find ourselves in that quiet place?
Prayer in our New Year
You may have recognized today's choice of scripture as one we reflected on just prior to Advent. As we arrive at the completion of the prayer challenge, we also make a new beginning. While reflecting on our lives in 2014, we also offer the blank pages of 2015 to God in prayer.
Establishing the 10 Minute Daily Retreat
Since its commencement in October 2014, the management of this blog has taught me many lessons. These have included spiritual, technological, emotional and relational. I would like to thank you, whether readers or contributing writers for your support, and patience with my 'bloopers.'
The future of the 10 Minute Daily Retreat.
The blog will continue into 2015. My goals, hopes and prayers are for it to continue to develop in quality, and in population reach.
The Gospel of Mark
Christians attending churches which follow the liturgical calendar have provided feedback that they are more likely to use the Retreat if it follows the 'readings of the day.' This year the calendar will follow the Gospel of Mark.
The Liturgical Calendar commences on Sunday, 11th January, 2015 with the Baptism of Jesus.
Daily Readings
While it is not realistic to offer a commentary every day of the week, the Retreat will publish the daily Gospel reading and one reflection question. These will not be emailed, but can be accessed directly from this website. Download the App onto a mobile phone or device for the easiest option.
Reflection by Retreat Writers.
The Liturgical Calendar commences on Sunday, 11th January, 2015 with the Baptism of Jesus.
Daily Readings
While it is not realistic to offer a commentary every day of the week, the Retreat will publish the daily Gospel reading and one reflection question. These will not be emailed, but can be accessed directly from this website. Download the App onto a mobile phone or device for the easiest option.
Reflection by Retreat Writers.
A reflection will be offered by a member of the Retreat Writing Team on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. These will be offered via email, published on facebook and accessed via this webpage.
Our Team
Once again I would like offer my appreciation to you as readers or retreat writers for your support and patience as the site developed.
I hope you will continue to offer this in 2015. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce the team of writers. Each writer has a brief 'About Me' if you click on their name.
Break between January 1st, 2015 - January 10th, 2015.
The 10 Minute Daily Retreat will take a break during this period. If you would like to complete the Christmas Season with daily reflections, I have found the Advent Calendar on this blog to be rich in quality.
Advent and Christmas Season Calendar
Wishing you a happy New Year and God's blessings for 2015.
Susanne
Our Team
Once again I would like offer my appreciation to you as readers or retreat writers for your support and patience as the site developed.
I hope you will continue to offer this in 2015. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce the team of writers. Each writer has a brief 'About Me' if you click on their name.
Break between January 1st, 2015 - January 10th, 2015.
The 10 Minute Daily Retreat will take a break during this period. If you would like to complete the Christmas Season with daily reflections, I have found the Advent Calendar on this blog to be rich in quality.
Advent and Christmas Season Calendar
Wishing you a happy New Year and God's blessings for 2015.
Susanne
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| (Paula Vince) |
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| Leanne Walsh |
Tuesday, 30 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 31)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Tuesday, 30th December, 2014)
By Malcolm Davies
And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him. (Luke 2:40)
Even as a child one can see growth in the manifestation of holiness of Jesus through the power of the Spirit in his life. It was a greater fulfillment of that fundamental fullness of holiness with which Jesus came into the world.
The grace that, again according to Luke, was upon Jesus and in which he grew, indicates the presence and action of the Holy Spirit in the human life of Jesus.
Jesus was privileged to have an experience of care of his human mother and foster father who were totally dedicated to serving God in their lives.
If we reflect on our own lives we can see how blessed we have been when we have had an experience of love within the natural or spiritual family (the Church) where we are cared for and encouraged to grow.
This growth comes through discipleship that includes prayer, service, reflection on the scriptures, sacraments and sharing our joys and struggles with others on a similar journey. From that life we are called to continue to grow by serving faithfully according to the talents we have been given.
Wisdom and strength are gifts of the Spirit in our life and we will grow like Jesus when we live a life of discipleship.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Monday, 29 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 30)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Tuesday, 29th December, 2014)
By Susanne Timpani19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.”
21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel.(Matthew 2:21-22)
Joseph carried a great responsibility in listening for God's voice. His decisions were serious because the safety of Mary and Jesus relied on his obedience.
Are there areas of our life when we need to listen more closely for God's voice in prayer?
Are there times when these mean taking risks and leaving our comfort zone?
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Sunday, 28 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 29)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Sunday 28th December, 2014)
By Susanne Timpani
13 When they [the three kings] had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream.“Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”
14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod.' (Matthew 2:13-15)
Fleeing from bullets
I have an African friend who told me stories of her flight out of Burundi. Bullets seared banana leaves as her family stumbled through fields. A child at the time, some memories are sharper than others. While she remembered neighbours and friends screaming, she also remembered others singing. Through their songs they cried out to God for His help.
Refugees praising God
Through my work, I have met many African refugees. Despite their recount of their horrific experiences I am astounded by their frequent conclusion, ‘but I give thanks to God.’ Even with the strength of my faith I still find it hard to believe that you could experience such atrocities and come out praising God.
Many of us have experienced rejection
For those of us who are Australian born, it is unlikely that we have ever been forced to escape persecution and become refugees. Even so, we may have experienced isolation from our family, friends, work colleagues and, unfortunately, even our church communities.
We worship a God who, through Jesus, has experienced all of these hurts.
Today we read about the Holy Family being uprooted and fleeing from their homeland. This taints the joy and wonder that has so far surrounded the birth of Jesus. From this moment on, Jesus’ life will always be a dichotomy of suffering and healing. If we have suffered this year, perhaps we can lay this now at the feet of Jesus.
As we face 2015, can we do so in a spirit of faith and trust?
As we face 2015, can we do so in a spirit of faith and trust?
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Saturday, 27 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 28)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Saturday 27th, 2014)
By Susanne Timpani
A light reflection on the joy of caring.
John Lewis Christmas Advert 2013 - The Bear & The Hare
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Friday, 26 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 27)
10 Minute Daily Retreat Friday, 26th December, 2014)
Reflection by Malcolm Davies
11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:11)
Vatican II’s Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation makes very clear in the first chapter that God is primarily revealing not ideas, dogmas or moralities to us but God’s very self: “It pleased God, in his goodness and wisdom, to reveal himself”.
Biblical revelation is a personal category of encounter, a personal knowing, not just a classroom study. It is personal transformation more than just education.
The Magi had to do that most dangerous of things: trust and follow their own limited experience.
Which is all that any of us has!
God trusts us and uses our own limited experience to reveal himself. Most of us do not have great wealth but what gifts we do have can be given to Jesus by the way we live our life.
The Magi have travelled a great distance under difficult circumstances and bring the treasures that they own.
We have our own treasure which are the gifts of our time and talents and that’s what Jesus needs in our society.
We have the gifts of our time to worship Jesus. We have the talents to serve him in the poor and marginalised that we meet.
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| Malcolm Davies |
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Thursday, 25 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 26)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Thursday, 25th December, 2014)
Reflection by Jane Borg
After their audience with the king they set out and behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star.
As astrologers the Magi knew the stars
The Magi had traveled a long way bearing gifts for this new king who had been born. They did not know who this king was or the significance of His birth. They were acting on the common ancient belief that a new star indicated that a new king had been born. As astrologers they knew the stars – this was a momentous event and they put aside everything else in their lives to follow this star and find this new baby.
What joy in their hearts when the star ‘rested’ and they knew they had found the place. Imagine the anticipation; maybe also nerves mixed with the joy.
They recognised and believed
We have the advantage of hindsight, Jesus’ own teaching about His identity, and thousands of years of theological study to help us understand the enormity of what happened. God became man in that little baby – fully human, fully divine. The Magi knew none of this. These Gentiles recognised the King. They did not need to understand who and why; they believed and did homage.
We have anticipated this moment
Throughout Advent we have been anticipating this moment – the birth of the King, the Messiah, our Saviour. God made man – so incredibly mind blowing, yet so simple in its truth.
Our search is over
We spend our lives on a journey searching for that one thing that will complete us, satisfy those deep needs in our heart. Well today, Jesus is born and the search is over. Whether you are still on the search to encounter Jesus Christ or your search is to deepen that encounter, the message of the Magi is for each of us.
Don't ever stop seeking out Jesus!
When you encounter Him, give him your best.
Then follow his direction.
Have a very blessed Christmas, from everyone on the 10 Minute Daily Retreat team,
Malcolm, Jane, Colin, Mark, Melanie, Lyn, Paula, Glen, Leanne, Louise and Susanne xox
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| Jane Borg |
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Wednesday, 24 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 25)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Wednesday, 24th December, 2014)
Reflection by Malcolm Davies
Matthew 2:3-6
3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:
6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’ (Matthew 2:3-6)
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’ (Matthew 2:3-6)
Jesus came to us so we could experience the fullness of life and Herod can be seen to represent all the powers of evil that would keep us from that life that God wants for us.
Jesus is not born in Rome, Athens or Jerusalem or any of the great cities of the Roman Empire, but in Bethlehem. Bethlehem means the ‘house of bread’ and Jesus himself is to be the bread of life who will feed us and therefore for us to experience eternal life through him.
The powers of evil are always seeking to attack and control the weak both in the spiritual and natural world we live in.
As disciples we can experience the protection of God and the fullness of life by putting Jesus first in our life. We do not have to be the wisest or richest people but we can be the greatest disciples when we seek to love Jesus in every part of our life.
The way many holy people throughout history have done that is to make time for prayer, reading the bible, participating in worship and serving the poor.
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| Malcolm Davies |
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Tuesday, 23 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 24)
Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 'Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him." (Matthew 2:1-2)
Like the three Kings, we too are searching
For me, Mathew 2:1-2 represents the continuous searching – even as believers – for what we need from God depending on what we are experiencing.
The way is not always clear
We see His star clearly, though when right and wrong choices are not black and white, we search our way out of the grey. One example that springs to mind was my daily walk to work, a few years ago, soon after my separation from a 21 year marriage.
The way is not always clear
We see His star clearly, though when right and wrong choices are not black and white, we search our way out of the grey. One example that springs to mind was my daily walk to work, a few years ago, soon after my separation from a 21 year marriage.
The expected aids the unexpected
Taking the walk up Flinders towards Queen at 8am weekdays is both intimate and distracting. The first block contains quiet cafes and few fellow pedestrians. The busy adjacent road however, generates an orchestra of car noises – a symphony for the highly strung.
As opposed to waterfall and nature noises, these days I find comfort in a turbulent, alternative rhythm – yes, traffic to me has a rhythm: a soothing combination of ‘expected’ engine noises, horns and brake sounds. I crave ‘expected’ at this time when everything is new and unknowing.
Our world is not always tranquil
This is the ideal background for what I like to call ‘self to environment’ meditation: a technique I use to remind me that the world is not always tranquil and I must live in it. And, live in it I have managed but only with the help of a divine object I keep in my left jacket pocket; an object with mysterious strength that merely holding it empowers me: my rosary beads.
This is the ideal background for what I like to call ‘self to environment’ meditation: a technique I use to remind me that the world is not always tranquil and I must live in it. And, live in it I have managed but only with the help of a divine object I keep in my left jacket pocket; an object with mysterious strength that merely holding it empowers me: my rosary beads.
'Magic' beads
Although I have been a Catholic my whole life, it has only been in the last seven weeks – while my 21 year marriage was taking its last breaths – that I have realised the complete power of my extraordinary beads.
Whether Catholic or not, the end of a long union opens floodgates of feelings; sometimes experienced separately, but sometimes – overwhelmingly – experienced all at once.
Chaos can be calmed
It is difficult to explain the impact, and I’m sure it is different for everyone, but for me, I can loosely compare it with my daily walk up Queen; particularly at 8:10am at the corner of Flinders and Elizabeth when a crowd of people cross the road from the station and head directly towards us walking straight ahead. The commotion causes momentary chaos that is quick and confusing. Pedestrians must weave through and around each other in a stop, start, quick, slow movement in order to get through unscathed.
Although I have been a Catholic my whole life, it has only been in the last seven weeks – while my 21 year marriage was taking its last breaths – that I have realised the complete power of my extraordinary beads.
Whether Catholic or not, the end of a long union opens floodgates of feelings; sometimes experienced separately, but sometimes – overwhelmingly – experienced all at once.
Chaos can be calmed
It is difficult to explain the impact, and I’m sure it is different for everyone, but for me, I can loosely compare it with my daily walk up Queen; particularly at 8:10am at the corner of Flinders and Elizabeth when a crowd of people cross the road from the station and head directly towards us walking straight ahead. The commotion causes momentary chaos that is quick and confusing. Pedestrians must weave through and around each other in a stop, start, quick, slow movement in order to get through unscathed.
Similarly, my grieving includes these moments too, when everything becomes chaotically unclear. Reminiscing is stop, start, quick, slow, and the fear of being permanently damaged in an emotional stampede seems very likely. But just as quick as the change on Elizabeth and Queen, my thinking is clear again and I focus on everything good in my life.
And, I continue to say the rosary as I walk on. The mere feel of the crucifix generates a feeling of security and the confusion in my head is just a memory.
God meets the needs of our journey
My rosary beads have granted me wishes too – signs I’ve asked from God and practical things I have needed. And most importantly, I’ve received the energy to keep walking.
And, I continue to say the rosary as I walk on. The mere feel of the crucifix generates a feeling of security and the confusion in my head is just a memory.
God meets the needs of our journey
My rosary beads have granted me wishes too – signs I’ve asked from God and practical things I have needed. And most importantly, I’ve received the energy to keep walking.
Eventually I do stop. I reflect on my walk and the impact it has had on my mental wellbeing, and I look forward. I say to myself –as convincingly as I am able:
Yes, I am vulnerable but I have followed God to this place where I feel unsure but safe.
Yes, I am vulnerable but I have followed God to this place where I feel unsure but safe.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Louise Crossley
Monday, 22 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 23)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Monday, 22nd December, 2014)
By Susanne TimpaniThe shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard. It was just as the angel had told them. (Luke 2:20)
Encountering Christ
When I was 21, I joined a Diocesan youth group, ‘Christ Encounter Renewal’. The long name destined the group to become known as C.E.R. While abbreviations and acronyms are practical, they can also reduce the power of identity. Rather like removing ‘Christ’ from ‘Christmas’, or changing St. Vincent de Paul to Vinnies, to the uninformed they provide little insight into the origins of the tradition or group.
Christ Encounter Renewal
The group formed when young people from parishes across Adelaide experienced an encounter with Christ. It was a spectacular moment of grace and two generations on the fruits can be seen in our families, parishes and diocesan ministries.
The shepherds went back to their flocks.
We were like the shepherds returning to their flocks. How is it possible to continue on with life as if nothing happened? Yet unlike believers in other gospel stories, the shepherds didn’t leave everything behind in order to follow God.
All of us are called to glorify God in our lives.
Not all of us are called to leave the ordinariness of daily life to follow Christ. Yet like the shepherds, all of us are called to ‘return glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen.’
The invitation to encounter Jesus stands today.
The historical account of the first Christmas is undoubtedly spectacular. Even more spectacular is the fact that the invitation to encounter Jesus still stands today.
Let us use these last days of Advent to accept God’s invitation to experience, or deepen, our personal relationship with His Son.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Sunday, 21 December 2014
32 Day Prayer Challenge (Day 22)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Sunday, 21st December, 2014)
Fourth Sunday of Advent
By Susanne Timpani
...but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often.' (Luke 2:19)
Are you ready for Christmas?
We light the last Advent candle today with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. In the past couple of days how many times have you been asked if you are all ready for Christmas yet? I was at the hairdresser yesterday and wondered how best to answer the question. It depends on what is meant by ‘all ready.’
What is on your 'To Do' list?
I've had my hair cut now, so that's one item off the list. We host an annual Carols by Candlelight in our back garden each year. That’s tonight; so that is almost off the list.
We received our first Christmas card this year in October! I’m definitely not that organized. On Friday I literally tossed my mail into a sack in the back of the post van. The clock hadn’t quite struck 6pm and the bemused Postie was about to slam the door shut! Hopefully my Christmas mail is on its way.
If you ask a child if they are all ready for Christmas the last thing that comes to their mind is the cooking, shopping, and sending mail – unless it’s a letter to Santa.
A whirlwind of events surrounded Jesus' birth.
Today’s verse presents a role model of what it means to ‘be ready.’ Momentous events surrounded the birth of Jesus, but Mary chose not to be distracted by them, but to reflect on them.
Perhaps we can spend these last few days of Advent enjoying the ‘distractions’. When we set aside a few moments of quiet prayer we can receive the grace to do just that.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Saturday, 20 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 21)
10 Minute Daily Retreat (Saturday, 20th December, 2014)
By Colin Sutton (Modified and reprinted, with permission)
When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. (Luke 2:17-18)
By Colin Sutton (Modified and reprinted, with permission)
When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. (Luke 2:17-18)
An Advent Miracle
This morning I glanced on my bedside table at an icon of Jesus holding the Word.
Have we considered how incredible that the Son of God actually came from heaven to earth!
Can we get our minds around the fact that God, walked and taught on this earth that we walk on?
I am overawed with this amazing miracle.
Where would we be without Jesus?
He has saved us, so that through Him we may save others.
He is the Good News, so that we may be the Good News.
Everything we do either brings someone closer to Him, or takes them further away.
May the coming of Christmas open the door for the coming of Jesus to all.
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| Colin Sutton |
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Friday, 19 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 20)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Malcolm Davies
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.(Luke 2:15-16)
We have here an amazing and daring picture for the beginning of Jesus’ life amongst us.
God does not come amongst the wealthy, educated or powerful but rather amongst the marginalised of society.
An unspiritual mind writing a story of God incarnate would surely have Jesus born in a palace, among nobility or even royalty. The birth would be spectacular and invite the respect of the rich and powerful throughout the world.
What might the Spirit be trying to say to us through the story of the birth of Jesus?
First of all God is to be found amongst the poor and powerless. Our God is prepared to undertake a rough and risky beginning.
Secondly, the story of the Incarnation and Birth has the capacity to awaken awe and mystery. It shows that God is willing to take a huge risk by being born and coming into the world in an unsafe, small town at the edge of civilisation.
The birth of Jesus hints of a new freedom, a freedom that we who idealise Jesus, Mary and Joseph do not always want. To experience freedom and the fullness of salvation means having to take a risk and trust in God.
Reflect on that as we remember that God, who is Lord of the Universe, has come among us as a child.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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| (Malcolm Davies) |
Thursday, 18 December 2014
32 DayChrismtas Prayer Challenge (Day 19)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
The angels' message wasn't just for the shepherds.
By Mark Underwood
“At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises:
Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him”. (Luke 2:13-14)
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him”. (Luke 2:13-14)
The Lord is worthy of praise.
There is a difference between worship and praise. Worship is because of who God is, praise is for what he does.
In this short passage from Luke, the shepherds have just had the birth of Jesus announced to them. Though simple men, they recognize the importance of what they have just heard. The context of the message makes it clear that it is not just for the shepherds, but rather for everyone, that Jesus has been born.
All creation is invited to respond to what has occurred, from the lowliest shepherd to the highest angel.
My heart sings with joy
The Bible doesn’t specify exactly how the shepherds felt when surrounded by all this. When I imagine myself in their shoes, the phrase ‘my heart sings’ comes to mind. I feel a deep internal drawing to praise the Lord. I can’t help but raise my voice and my arms is gratitude.
My heart sings with joy
The Bible doesn’t specify exactly how the shepherds felt when surrounded by all this. When I imagine myself in their shoes, the phrase ‘my heart sings’ comes to mind. I feel a deep internal drawing to praise the Lord. I can’t help but raise my voice and my arms is gratitude.
In this season of gift-giving, ponder God's greatest gift to us.
In a season where we celebrate by spending money and buying gifts for our family and friends, often without even thinking of God, or the ‘reason for the season’, I invite you to give some thought today to pondering what the Lord has done for you. I bet you can’t help but praise Him.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Wednesday, 17 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 18)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Jane Borg
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."(Luke 2:10-11)
We love to hear good news, don't we?
This is especially the case if we are waiting for a particular thing, event or person. The good news being brought by the Angels was news that the Jews had been waiting to hear for thousands of years – the Messiah is finally here!
The King of David's line; the Great Shepherd who will gather and unite His flock Israel; The One who will save the people from their enemies and set them free.
What joy! Freedom! Hope! Victory!
Jesus brought all these things, but not as the Jews expected.
Jesus did not come to win a military victory and reestablish Israel as a powerful nation as they expected.
Jesus brought God’s Kingdom of love and a way of discipleship, which He modelled.
He made it possible for us to live in God’s Kingdom here and now. This is good news for us – a source of great joy.
As we move through advent, let us take into our hearts this good news and prepare with anticipation for the coming of our Saviour in a new and deeper way this Christmas.
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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| Jane Borg |
Tuesday, 16 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 17)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Melanie Edwards
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. (Luke 2:8-9)
An experienced shepherd would have been well aware of the out of the ordinary things which might happen as they kept watch over their flock at night. They would be on their guard so that wolves or other predators could not attack, and so that none of their sheep went astray.
So when the angel of the Lord appeared that night, they were understandably out of their comfort zone. This was clearly not a usual occurrence in the life of a shepherd.
Often in our lives we are faced with the unexpected, things happen that don’t quite fit our plan or definition of the way life should be. We, like the shepherds may be terrified, unsure how to make sense of what has surprised us so suddenly and unexpectedly.
Yet we know that as the story progresses, the lives of the shepherds are transformed. The same can be true for us; God invites us to be open to being surprised and to step outside our comfort zones so that we might be drawn closer to him.
Lord, we pray that you would help us recognise and be open to the unexpected.
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| Melanie Edwards |
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5 minutes: READ the text slowly.
REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you.
SPEAK to God about your thoughts.
5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you.
RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you.
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Monday, 15 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 16)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
By Susanne Timpani
'...she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.' Matthew 1:25
I once overheard a child ask her mother, "why did they name the baby Jesus with a swear word?" Does that question stab you in the heart like it did for me?
It's not only children who are ignorant. I'm almost certain that many adults who use the name of Jesus Christ - often adding a deeply offensive middle name - have no idea of the depth of pain it affords Christians.
I had a friend who worked for a church based charity organization. Staff don't need to be Christians to work in most of these services, and for the most part he found that Christian values were respected. Except for the swearing. So he went about a very gentle but clear campaign of awareness. "Did you know that you are blaspheming?"
When he told me this I have to admit that I wondered if anyone really cared whether they were blaspheming or not. However, he found that some - not all- had no idea they were being offensive. Over time he found that the use of the name of our Lord Jesus Christ as a swear word gradually declined.
Now that I've reached my middle years I'm much more confident to follow suit. I don't have control over what others say, but I make it my business to make sure it doesn't slip out of my own mouth. Nor is it permissible in our household of six very different people. I don't like to judge others. But I do have to admit to calling one of my managers to account for his blatant curse while in a public meeting. I was amazed at how many Christians came out of the woodwork after that meeting!
Let us always give honour to the name of our blessed Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
I once overheard a child ask her mother, "why did they name the baby Jesus with a swear word?" Does that question stab you in the heart like it did for me?
It's not only children who are ignorant. I'm almost certain that many adults who use the name of Jesus Christ - often adding a deeply offensive middle name - have no idea of the depth of pain it affords Christians.
I had a friend who worked for a church based charity organization. Staff don't need to be Christians to work in most of these services, and for the most part he found that Christian values were respected. Except for the swearing. So he went about a very gentle but clear campaign of awareness. "Did you know that you are blaspheming?"
When he told me this I have to admit that I wondered if anyone really cared whether they were blaspheming or not. However, he found that some - not all- had no idea they were being offensive. Over time he found that the use of the name of our Lord Jesus Christ as a swear word gradually declined.
Now that I've reached my middle years I'm much more confident to follow suit. I don't have control over what others say, but I make it my business to make sure it doesn't slip out of my own mouth. Nor is it permissible in our household of six very different people. I don't like to judge others. But I do have to admit to calling one of my managers to account for his blatant curse while in a public meeting. I was amazed at how many Christians came out of the woodwork after that meeting!
Let us always give honour to the name of our blessed Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Sunday, 14 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 15)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
Third Sunday of Advent
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. (Luke 2:6-7)
Have you ever been in a room of women exchanging birth stories?
Regardless of the birth experience, the level of animation in the conversation is captivating. Each mother has her own unique story or stories to share. Father's too have their experience of the very same event. If you're fortunate enough to add the presence of midwifes - myself being one - into the conversation the stories really get going!
How many of us know the story of our own birth?
Whether we have participated in the birth of a child or not, we all have the experience of having been born. Even if you know nothing about your own birth, God knows every detail of it. Psalm 139:13-18
It may seem odd that we have arrived at the account of Jesus' birth while still in Advent.
I have done this deliberately so that, just like our own recount of our birth experience, we can take apart the 'nativity story' scene by scene. We might be surprised by the characters seemingly missing from the biblical accounts. Where is the inn-keeper? The donkey?
When I read the account above there are a lot of details missing.
As a midwife, I can definitely say that there is a lot more to giving birth for a first time, young mum than described in today's verse. Perhaps there was a female assistant who slipped away afterwards, leaving no record of her attendance? Biblical and historical scholars would have more to say about this.
Today's bible verse describes an intimate scene that has captivated artists and story-tellers for generations.
I have been so blessed to have worked as a night midwife in labour ward.
The sound and light show that reigns in hospitals throughout the day cease to operate overnight. Visitors are shown the door, cleaners have hung up their mops, meal trolleys parked for the night and the phones are less likely to ring. The lights of the labour room are dimmed and the focus is on maintaining a state of calm for the troubled hours the mother faces.
Contractions are like waves from the ocean.
As they build, the women's groans increase, reach a crescendo and fall away. It is the midwife's role to ensure the calm in between remains calm. Contractions are like breaths, in and out. When the midwife and the mother work together, this focus on breathing makes the pains more manageable. Following hours of intense and ever increasing waves, the relationship between the midwife and the mother deepens.
When it is over, and a wet slippery body emerges, the bubble between the mother and midwife bursts.
It's at this point that I become aware that my job is almost done. It's time for the newborn to connect with its mother. Once the after-birth is out, I pile everything on to the trolley and wheel it out, leaving behind the family to adjust to this new life.
Today's scripture provides a glimpse of the intimacy and humility that surrounded the birth of Jesus.
As we read it slowly, allow the Word to seep into our spirit and bring us into that place of Jesus' birth. Does it say something to us that we have never considered before?
By Susanne Timpani
Third Sunday of Advent
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. (Luke 2:6-7)
Have you ever been in a room of women exchanging birth stories?
Regardless of the birth experience, the level of animation in the conversation is captivating. Each mother has her own unique story or stories to share. Father's too have their experience of the very same event. If you're fortunate enough to add the presence of midwifes - myself being one - into the conversation the stories really get going!
How many of us know the story of our own birth?
Whether we have participated in the birth of a child or not, we all have the experience of having been born. Even if you know nothing about your own birth, God knows every detail of it. Psalm 139:13-18
It may seem odd that we have arrived at the account of Jesus' birth while still in Advent.
I have done this deliberately so that, just like our own recount of our birth experience, we can take apart the 'nativity story' scene by scene. We might be surprised by the characters seemingly missing from the biblical accounts. Where is the inn-keeper? The donkey?
When I read the account above there are a lot of details missing.
As a midwife, I can definitely say that there is a lot more to giving birth for a first time, young mum than described in today's verse. Perhaps there was a female assistant who slipped away afterwards, leaving no record of her attendance? Biblical and historical scholars would have more to say about this.
Today's bible verse describes an intimate scene that has captivated artists and story-tellers for generations.
I have been so blessed to have worked as a night midwife in labour ward.
The sound and light show that reigns in hospitals throughout the day cease to operate overnight. Visitors are shown the door, cleaners have hung up their mops, meal trolleys parked for the night and the phones are less likely to ring. The lights of the labour room are dimmed and the focus is on maintaining a state of calm for the troubled hours the mother faces.
Contractions are like waves from the ocean.
As they build, the women's groans increase, reach a crescendo and fall away. It is the midwife's role to ensure the calm in between remains calm. Contractions are like breaths, in and out. When the midwife and the mother work together, this focus on breathing makes the pains more manageable. Following hours of intense and ever increasing waves, the relationship between the midwife and the mother deepens.
When it is over, and a wet slippery body emerges, the bubble between the mother and midwife bursts.
It's at this point that I become aware that my job is almost done. It's time for the newborn to connect with its mother. Once the after-birth is out, I pile everything on to the trolley and wheel it out, leaving behind the family to adjust to this new life.
Today's scripture provides a glimpse of the intimacy and humility that surrounded the birth of Jesus.
As we read it slowly, allow the Word to seep into our spirit and bring us into that place of Jesus' birth. Does it say something to us that we have never considered before?
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Saturday, 13 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day14)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Leanne Walsh
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancee, who was now obviously pregnant. (Luke 2:1-5)
As we read of these historical events, it confirms for us that we are reading about ‘real’ people set in ‘real’ places and in a ‘real’ time in history.
The census that draws Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem is to bring Joseph to his birthplace, the birthplace of David, where ultimately Jesus would be born.
This was prophesied centuries before in (Micah 5:2) "But you Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days”.
Call out to Him, for He is near.
By Leanne Walsh
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancee, who was now obviously pregnant. (Luke 2:1-5)
As we read of these historical events, it confirms for us that we are reading about ‘real’ people set in ‘real’ places and in a ‘real’ time in history.
The census that draws Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem is to bring Joseph to his birthplace, the birthplace of David, where ultimately Jesus would be born.
This was prophesied centuries before in (Micah 5:2) "But you Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days”.
This journey (probably in winter) would not have been an easy one, Bethlehem being about 4 days journey from Nazareth. Mary, heavily pregnant, only days from giving birth would have endured much hardship.
But who is to say that following God’s plan is easy? When we face hardships or challenges in our life it is not an indication that God is absent. He has promised us that He will be with us and that He will strengthen us in whatever difficulties we face.
“The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you. He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed”. (Deuteronomy 31:8)
But who is to say that following God’s plan is easy? When we face hardships or challenges in our life it is not an indication that God is absent. He has promised us that He will be with us and that He will strengthen us in whatever difficulties we face.
“The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you. He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed”. (Deuteronomy 31:8)
In this time of preparation as we await our Saviour's birth, let us be assured of Him walking with us, helping us in our life.
Call out to Him, for He is near.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
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| Leanne Walsh |
Friday, 12 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 13)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Malcolm Davies
All the neighbors were filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things. Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, "What then is this child going to be?" For the Lord's hand was with him.
The people recognise God’s special presence and divine purpose in the birth of John the Baptist as they have heard about his amazing conception and birth. The people are in awe and that is a common reaction when we sense the presence and the power of God.
The phrase ‘the hand of the Lord was certainly with him’ was a common phrase used by Luke and it indicated that the power of God was present in John’s life and that God had a plan for John.
God has a plan for our life as well as God is with us, God is for us, and God has a purpose for our lives.
The primary mission for John was to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus. That is also a part of the plan that God has for our life as well.
We don’t have to be a person who stands on the street corner shouting out for the passers by to repent, but we can call others into the Kingdom by the way we live our life.
If we are persons of prayer, who are formed by the scriptures and the traditions of the people of God, and who have responded to God’s call by a life of service and witness, then we will prepare others for the Kingdom of God.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Thursday, 11 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 12)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
(By Lyn Churchyard)
(By Lyn Churchyard)
Luke 1:46-55
Mary’s Song of Praise
‘Oh how my soul praises the LORD.
How my spirit praises the God of my salvation!'
How my spirit praises the God of my salvation!'
When Mary first heard the news given to her by the angel Gabriel that she was to give birth to the Saviour of the world, and sang her song of praise to God, her words echo those of Hannah when told she would have a child.
But unlike Hannah, Mary had no idea of what lay ahead, or the implications of the birth of that baby.
The following is one of my very favourite Christmas songs, and I think it says it all. Close your eyes and listen to the depth of meaning in the words.
Mary Did You Know?
Mary Did You Know?
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
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| Lyn Churchyard |
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 11)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Colin Sutton
(John 3:16)
By Colin Sutton
(John 3:16)
'For God so loved the world that He gave His only son
so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish
but will have eternal life.'
AN ADVENT MIRACLE
This morning I glanced on my bedside table at an icon of Jesus holding the Word.
Have we considered how incredible that the Son of God actually came from heaven to earth!
Can we get our minds around the fact that God, walked and taught on this earth that we walk on?
I am overawed with this amazing miracle. How easily we can accept this miracle, yet have trouble accepting the Charismatic gifts.
Where would we be without Jesus?
He has saved us, so that through Him we may save others.
He is the Good News, so that we may be the Good News.
Everything we do either brings someone closer to Him, or takes them further away.
May the coming of Advent open the door for the coming of Jesus to all.
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| Colin Sutton |
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Wednesday, 10 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day10)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Malcolm Davies
By Malcolm Davies
Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.(Luke 1:56)
Three months would appear a long time to stay with someone especially as Mary was pregnant and would be experiencing all the discomforts of early pregnancy.
Luke has insight into the faith of Mary and how she was a woman who was prepared to suffer to bring about the Kingdom. This small suffering in pregnancy is a beginning of a life of discipleship and later on we read of greater challenges in the journey into Egypt and back in order to protect the child Jesus.
Mary is the first disciple and we can all learn from her. Mary is a woman of prayer and faithfulness and her faith has been recognised by Elizabeth when she says that Mary is blessed because she believes what God has promised will come true.
One ministry we are all capable of is to walk with someone who is struggling. Just like Mary staying the journey with Elizabeth you may want to reflect on which person are you called to journey with.
It could be a sick relative in a nursing home. It could be spending time with a work colleague who is having a relationship difficulty. It could be visiting a mother with a new baby.
Discipleship is not always exciting but the small things we do for others is one way the Kingdom is manifest in our society.
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| Malcolm Davies |
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Monday, 8 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 9)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
(Prepared by Susanne Timpani)
A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town 40 where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. 41 At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:39-41
The Magnificat John Michael Talbot uploaded by Jaime Concepion
(Prepared by Susanne Timpani)
A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town 40 where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. 41 At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:39-41
The Magnificat John Michael Talbot uploaded by Jaime Concepion
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Sunday, 7 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 8)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
Second Sunday of Advent
By Susanne Timpani
Second Sunday of Advent
John the Baptist appeared in the desert, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. All of Judea, including all the people of Jerusalem, went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins he baptized them in the Jordan River. (Mark 1:4-6)
This painting gives us a glimpse of the type of crowd that gathered around John the Baptist. He must have been a compelling speaker for people to have come from 'all of Judea' and 'Jerusalem' to see and hear him.
I listened to a toast master recently who described the competitions speech makers enter. They are judged on presentation as much as content. I suspect John was gifted with a natural talent for drawing a crowd. If he were all doom and gloom I wonder how many people would have bothered to travel out to meet him. Surely his message was an exciting and challenging one? 'Get ready, something...someone...is coming who is going to turn your world upside down.'
His was a call to action. 'This is what you must do.' People had to leave the safety of the crowd and go out on a limb in order to be baptised.
Are there aspects of my life that crowd out God's call to me?
Are there ways I can support others to come and see and hear what Christmas is truly about?
I listened to a toast master recently who described the competitions speech makers enter. They are judged on presentation as much as content. I suspect John was gifted with a natural talent for drawing a crowd. If he were all doom and gloom I wonder how many people would have bothered to travel out to meet him. Surely his message was an exciting and challenging one? 'Get ready, something...someone...is coming who is going to turn your world upside down.'
His was a call to action. 'This is what you must do.' People had to leave the safety of the crowd and go out on a limb in order to be baptised.
Are there aspects of my life that crowd out God's call to me?
Are there ways I can support others to come and see and hear what Christmas is truly about?
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Saturday, 6 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 7)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
Prepared by Susanne Timpani
All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord's message through his prophet;
"Look! The virgin will conceive a child!
she will give birth to a son,
and they will call him Immanuel, which means God is with us.'"
(Matthew 1:22-23)
This is one of my favorite Advent hymns.
O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Traditional Choir
Friday, 5 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 6)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Malcolm Davies
This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly.
As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:18-21
Joseph is an example of how we are to be faithful in good times and difficult times. Be faithful to the Gospel.
By Malcolm Davies
This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly.
As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:18-21
The appearance of the angel signifies that this is a sacred event. The power and presence of God is being manifest in a visible way to Joseph through the dream.
We are reminded of another Joseph in the book of Genesis who also experienced God speaking to him through his dreams.
God has a plan for each one of us and he has a dream for us and will communicate that dream if we are open to the grace of God.
If you are overwhelmed with discouragement or a feeling of unworthiness then think of the faith of Joseph. If you are gripped by anxiety then think of the hope of Joseph who journeyed in difficult circumstances to Egypt and back again (as did the Joseph in Genesis).
If you are angry or resentful then think of the love of Joseph who, along with Mary, was the among the first to see the human face of God in the person of Jesus who came to bring good news and responded to evil by suffering and laying down his life for us.
For the sake of the Kingdom Joseph experienced persecution, struggles, exile and poverty. His reward was to journey with Jesus and see the beginnings of a new creation and the new and everlasting covenant of God with men and women.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Thursday, 4 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 5)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.”
And then the angel left her. Luke 1:38
In saying yes to God Mary does not enter in to self-doubt. Mary does not say that she is unworthy or undeserving or that she is not ready. Mary knows that God is in charge.
In the eyes of God we are worthy as well because God has chosen us for a particular mission or ministry. It could be something quite normal like being a parent or grandparent.
We cannot do anything to deserve or be worthy of being a parent or grandparent. It is a gift from God.
Each of us are part of the Body of Christ and we also have a call or ministry or mission. Like Mary we are invited to be open to the Spirit and to cooperate with the grace of God.
The scriptures describe many ministries that were active in the early Church such as interceding for others, praying for healing, bringing food to the poor and visiting those in prison. Those ministries exist today and there are also Christians who help with new ministries needed in their communities such as catechising young people, administration in parishes and bring communion to those in nursing homes.
Each one of us is challenged to say yes to whatever God is calling us to at this time.
Don’t wait until you feel worthy or ready or deserving.
God is charge of your life and so you are invited, like Mary, to say a big yes to God.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you. |
Next Reflection: 5th December, 2014
Wednesday, 3 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 4)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin."
By Susanne Timpani
Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin."
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God.
What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. (Luke 1:34)
William Barclay on today's Gospel: 'There is much more in this chapter than the crude fact that Jesus Christ was born of a virgin mother. The essence of Matthew's story is that in the birth of Jesus the Spirit of God was operative as never before in this world. It is the Spirit who brings God's truth to men; it is the Spirit who enables men to recognize that truth when they see it; it is the Spirit who was God's agent in the creation of the world; it is the Spirit who alone can re-create the human soul when it has lost the life it ought to have.'
A prayer for today:
Dear Lord, please touch the dry empty places of my soul that only Your Spirit can soothe.'
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you |
Tuesday, 2 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 3)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Paula Vince
The angel came to her and said, 'Greetings! The Lord has blessed you and is with you.'
But Mary was very startled by what the angel said and wondered what this greeting might mean.
The angel said to her, 'Don't be afraid, Mary; God has shown you His grace.
Listen! You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of King David, His ancestor.
He will rule over the people of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will never end.' (Luke 1:26-33)
The angelic host are generally unobtrusive, working quietly in the world, but occasionally they make their presence known. Naturally, humans are taken by surprise and filled with awe, none more so than Mary, when she heard the announcement Gabriel bore especially for her.
The content of the message is a comfort for us all, as it proves that Jesus' days on earth were planned by God before He was even conceived. I'm reminded of several words of knowledge I received from friends and acquaintances that I would give birth to a baby girl. They came months before her conception. Having suffered several miscarriages, I chose to take them as special messages of grace and encouragement which He didn't have to give, but chose to anyway. My daughter celebrated her sixteenth birthday a few weeks ago.
Gabriel's words about the son Mary was to bear were awe-inspiring and magnificent. They proved to be entirely accurate, even though this might not have been evident to the folk who were destined to rub shoulders with Jesus during His lifestyle as a village carpenter and itinerant preacher. His regal standing was revealed to the young woman chosen to give birth to Him from the very start.
Next Reflection: December 3rd, 2014
By Susanne Timpani
Luke 1:34-36
By Paula Vince
The angel came to her and said, 'Greetings! The Lord has blessed you and is with you.'
But Mary was very startled by what the angel said and wondered what this greeting might mean.
The angel said to her, 'Don't be afraid, Mary; God has shown you His grace.
Listen! You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of King David, His ancestor.
He will rule over the people of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will never end.' (Luke 1:26-33)
The angelic host are generally unobtrusive, working quietly in the world, but occasionally they make their presence known. Naturally, humans are taken by surprise and filled with awe, none more so than Mary, when she heard the announcement Gabriel bore especially for her.
The content of the message is a comfort for us all, as it proves that Jesus' days on earth were planned by God before He was even conceived. I'm reminded of several words of knowledge I received from friends and acquaintances that I would give birth to a baby girl. They came months before her conception. Having suffered several miscarriages, I chose to take them as special messages of grace and encouragement which He didn't have to give, but chose to anyway. My daughter celebrated her sixteenth birthday a few weeks ago.
Gabriel's words about the son Mary was to bear were awe-inspiring and magnificent. They proved to be entirely accurate, even though this might not have been evident to the folk who were destined to rub shoulders with Jesus during His lifestyle as a village carpenter and itinerant preacher. His regal standing was revealed to the young woman chosen to give birth to Him from the very start.
Let's make these early days of Advent a time to reflect that our King was chosen with care for a most significant role in history. There was nothing random or impetuous about the way He came to us. And although they usually remain concealed from humans, the angelic host are still faithfully working on God's behalf.
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| Paula Vince |
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you |
Next Reflection: December 3rd, 2014
By Susanne Timpani
Luke 1:34-36
Monday, 1 December 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 2)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
'Zechariah said to the angel, "How can I be sure this will happen? I'm and old man now, and my wife is also well along in years."
Then the angel said, 'I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news!
But now, since you didnt believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.' (Luke 1:18-20)
Have you ever looked back on your life and wondered how you ever got to where you are now? In a previous reflection I wrote that a survey taken in the USA showed that most people prayed. They didn't necessarily pray for the right reasons - like winning the lottery - but they did pray.
When we pray for the right reasons, why shouldn't our life be filled with amazing stories of God's action?
Zechariah was in the temple praying when the angel Gabriel appeared and greeted him with, "Don't be afraid, God has heard your prayer.' (Luke 1:8-10) What was Zechariah's prayer? That his childless wife who had reached menopause become pregnant? That the Messiah would come in his
lifetime? Either way they were pretty courageous prayers.
Is there something in your life that you are too afraid to pray for? God doesn't always answer in the way we expect, or even desire. Yet when we come to Him, He will always respond.
There is a proverb that tells us that we can make plans, but in the end it is God who has His way. (Proverbs 19:21)
God's plan included Zechariah having a son, and for that son to precede Jesus and herald His birth. Whether Zechariah believed it or not, it was going to happen. I believe in a God that is good and fair. I don't think Zechariah was silenced as a punishment for his expression of doubt. It was only temporary, and I wonder whether it was God's way of preventing him from spreading doubt?
If there is something in your life that you have been too afraid to bring to prayer, why not do it now? Pray with the words, ''Lord, I believe, help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24)
For the times when we've been surprised by God's hand in our lives, let us give thanks.
Next reflection: December 2nd, 2014
By Paula Vince
Luke 1:26-33
By Susanne Timpani
'Zechariah said to the angel, "How can I be sure this will happen? I'm and old man now, and my wife is also well along in years."
Then the angel said, 'I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news!
But now, since you didnt believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.' (Luke 1:18-20)
Have you ever looked back on your life and wondered how you ever got to where you are now? In a previous reflection I wrote that a survey taken in the USA showed that most people prayed. They didn't necessarily pray for the right reasons - like winning the lottery - but they did pray.
When we pray for the right reasons, why shouldn't our life be filled with amazing stories of God's action?
Zechariah was in the temple praying when the angel Gabriel appeared and greeted him with, "Don't be afraid, God has heard your prayer.' (Luke 1:8-10) What was Zechariah's prayer? That his childless wife who had reached menopause become pregnant? That the Messiah would come in his
lifetime? Either way they were pretty courageous prayers.
Is there something in your life that you are too afraid to pray for? God doesn't always answer in the way we expect, or even desire. Yet when we come to Him, He will always respond.
There is a proverb that tells us that we can make plans, but in the end it is God who has His way. (Proverbs 19:21)
God's plan included Zechariah having a son, and for that son to precede Jesus and herald His birth. Whether Zechariah believed it or not, it was going to happen. I believe in a God that is good and fair. I don't think Zechariah was silenced as a punishment for his expression of doubt. It was only temporary, and I wonder whether it was God's way of preventing him from spreading doubt?
If there is something in your life that you have been too afraid to bring to prayer, why not do it now? Pray with the words, ''Lord, I believe, help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24)
For the times when we've been surprised by God's hand in our lives, let us give thanks.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you |
Next reflection: December 2nd, 2014
By Paula Vince
Luke 1:26-33
Saturday, 29 November 2014
32 Day Christmas Prayer Challenge (Day 1)
10 Minute Daily Retreat
By Susanne Timpani
'When Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar.
Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him.
But the angel said, 'Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.
You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth,
for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord.
He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.' (Luke 1:11-15a)
While I was working up in PNG, I remember driving through the villages on clinic day. Children ran ahead of the car and cried out, 'the nurse is coming! Bring your babies!' There were no phones to make prior arrangements, or even venues to book a room. Unlike our own calendar-driven lifestyle, their days and weeks mostly ran into each other.
The other nurse and I cruised through a number of villages, heralding our mobile clinic. After our fourth or fifth place we would stop and hold the clinic from the rear of the jeep. By the time we arrived back at the first couple of villages, the women were more prepared. A good crowd had gathered, the mothers had collected their children, found their baby health record and were ready and waiting.
Yet God knew that not everyone would be ready to believe that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. John's message would be one of spiritual preparation. The more prepared people were, the more likely they would receive and believe the message.
The angel promised Zechariah that John would bring him great joy and gladness. Let's pray for the grace of preparation, so that we too experience this joy and gladness as we celebrate the coming of Jesus.
Next Reflection: December 1st, 2014
By Susanne Timpani
Luke 1:18-20
By Susanne Timpani
'When Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar.
Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him.
But the angel said, 'Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.
You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth,
for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord.
He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.' (Luke 1:11-15a)
While I was working up in PNG, I remember driving through the villages on clinic day. Children ran ahead of the car and cried out, 'the nurse is coming! Bring your babies!' There were no phones to make prior arrangements, or even venues to book a room. Unlike our own calendar-driven lifestyle, their days and weeks mostly ran into each other.
The other nurse and I cruised through a number of villages, heralding our mobile clinic. After our fourth or fifth place we would stop and hold the clinic from the rear of the jeep. By the time we arrived back at the first couple of villages, the women were more prepared. A good crowd had gathered, the mothers had collected their children, found their baby health record and were ready and waiting.
Zechariah and Elizabeth were favoured by God with a son who had one purpose. John the Baptist was sent ahead of Jesus to prepare the faith community. The angel told Zechariah that many people will rejoice at John's birth. Religious people would have memorized scriptures about the coming of the Messiah. For this to occur in their own life-time! What could be more awesome?
Yet God knew that not everyone would be ready to believe that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. John's message would be one of spiritual preparation. The more prepared people were, the more likely they would receive and believe the message.
The angel promised Zechariah that John would bring him great joy and gladness. Let's pray for the grace of preparation, so that we too experience this joy and gladness as we celebrate the coming of Jesus.
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| 5 minutes: READ the text slowly. REFLECT on a phrase or word that struck you. SPEAK to God about your thoughts. 5 minutes: LISTEN to God speak to you. RESPOND with a prayer that feels right for you |
Next Reflection: December 1st, 2014
By Susanne Timpani
Luke 1:18-20