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Scriptures: Jeremiah 31:15–19 & Matthew 2:13–15
Even in our Faithfulness we often stray but we never wander too far for God to give up on us. Again, and again, we leave our places of inner peace and comfort, only to return after lessons are learned and there is a Restoration of our hope. ~ Rev. John Barbone, Pastor Emeritus
Comments
Scriptures: Luke 2:6–14 & Luke 2:15–20
Christ is God's gift to US. What good is a gift if there is no one to receive it? Hope is the gift given to us by God in the person of Jesus Christ. When we receive gifts from God, not only are they meant to bless us, but we in turn are meant to be a blessing to others. Bless others with hope through the sharing of what is needed: perhaps love, or joy or being an instrument of peace. Life for all of us is filled with ups and downs, but we can be a gift of hope to others as Christ is to us. We Adore Christ as Our Hope. ~ Rev. John Barbone, Pastor Emeritus Scriptures: Psalm 51:12–17 & Luke 1:39–45
Learning how to live in joy, makes human frailty less subject to negative expectations. Our "visits", real or in mindful union, can increase joy for ourselves and those with whom we "visit". Those visits must be positive, uplifting and filled with peace; then, and only then, can we assure joy within our hearts and the hearts of those whose lives touch ours. Be Exhilarated by the Joy of Hope this Christmas. ~ Rev. John Barbone, Pastor Emeritus Scriptures: Psalm 43 & Matthew 1:18–25
Without peace there is chaos; there is no hope in the midst of war/battles. It is always incumbent upon us to seek peace before all else. Peace within our hearts invites hope to enter the world through us, and through us into our family, our community and the world in which we live. Explore Hope through peace this Christmas. ~ Rev. John Barbone, Pastor Emeritus |
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June 2017
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