The voice of one crying out - December 14

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 119:49-72; PM Psalm 49, [53]
Isa. 9:8-17; 2 Pet. 2:1-10a; Mark 1:1-8

While downstairs writing today, attempting a reflection on Isaiah 9, I heard the sounds of crying upstairs. It was distant and wavering. It reminded me of the opening to the gospel of Jesus according to Mark that is appointed for today…Isaiah says, “See I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, may his paths straight.’”

I heard a voice crying out and I was not exactly sure what was going on. When I came to a stopping point, I went upstairs to say hello to our two school-aged kids.

I’ll say this: some weekday mornings are rocky. Usually, it is wrapped up in middle school anxiety. This morning, however, it was the first grader. He was out sick yesterday with a 24-hour bug. And his teacher has been out sick with the flu. If there is one thing Robinson does not like, it is a substitute teacher. Now, if you are one of the dedicated cadre that subject yourselves and your schedules to the whims and needs of substitute teaching, thank you!! You keep our schools running. My kid, however, dreads substitutes. They are unknown. They are new. They must get the class in order. And Robinson only wants warmth and familiarity. Change is not a welcomed friend in his six-year-old sensibilities.

Change is hard. And the best we can do is lean upon God in those moments. John the baptizer was sent to prepare people all over Judea for the coming of Jesus. It was rocky, at best. People did not know how to hear what John was saying. They could not fully comprehend the magnitude of the glory Jesus would bring to the world.

We are not alone in these moments of transition. Let us draw together as community, woven in the love of our Lord, who sends messengers to open our ears and hearts. Let us pray that God will reassure us when we are timid and frightened, for God’s hand is outstretched to us still.

Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

What scared you as a child? What scares you today? Who reassures you? How do you pray through times of change and uncertainty?

Daily Challenge

Listen for something today that makes you really uncomfortable. And then, take fifteen minutes to ponder and pray. Journal about what is making you feel this way? Rather than stepping back, lean into the discomfort. Read more. Ask someone for their input. Pray for God to prepare you to move deeper into that space, to open your eyes, and to help you grow.