Comments on: Rejoice, and take care

By: Jim Brenneman, GC President

Jim Brenneman, GC President — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:45:59 +0000

Annika, Your words are ready-made for my day, harried as I was about the outcome of a particular set of circumstances I was participant in — your words of peace were that indeed.

By: Beth

Beth — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 18:56:32 +0000

Thank you for this devotional!
As a teacher of teachers stretched across several buildings, it’s hard to remember to put my needs before my job sometimes. But, when I make that choice – it affects everything, and not in a good way! The Peace if Jesus is a pretty amazing thing!

ps – as a distant Iowa (Litwiller) cousin – it was wonderful to see your face on the devotional today! Sending warm thoughts across the miles!!

By: Bob

Bob — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:39:23 +0000

thank you we just get too anxious for the right things to happen sometimes God has other plans for me!!

By: Elisabeth

Elisabeth — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:25:57 +0000

What a nice devotional! Mary and Joseph faced a lot of challenges in their first years together and I’m sure you’re right that they had anxieties. I cannot imagine what Mary and Joseph felt trying to find a place to sleep for the night in a strange town only to find room in a barn! And having a baby there too! I hope that even though their experiences were at timed difficult they were able to trust in God’s plan and that we are also able to trust and not worry in the difficult times we face too.

By: Judy

Judy — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:09:18 +0000

Thank you for your words this morning! I relate as an introvert, also, for time away to be quiet, reflect, relax and to renew my energy. Perfect Scripture passage also!!

By: Anne

Anne — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:00:59 +0000

Thank you for your heartfelt reflection on this passage, one of my favorites. Reading it today, I was reminded of how I often fail to include in my prayers of supplication the thanksgiving that Paul suggests. I will keep this wise counsel from the apostle in mind today. Peace to you all!

By: Debbie Lackowitz

Debbie Lackowitz — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:00:43 +0000

So true Annika. It’s definitely hard to ‘let go’. Sometimes impossible. But we must. For sanity, yes. But also, for good itself. No one can ‘reach out’ before reaching within. So yes, ‘me time’ is so important. At this time of year. Any time really. Get away. Renew. Refresh.

By: Ruth Martin

Ruth Martin — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 13:58:02 +0000

I can identify with you, Annika, on the anxiety piece…especially at this time of year, with all the busyness, expectations and deadlines. Your idea of self-care in whatever form that takes is inspiring.

By: Ellen

Ellen — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 13:54:12 +0000

Your thoughts on this scripture were a good reminder to me that only as I let Him care for me, will I care for others effectively. Bless You!

By: Cinda

Cinda — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 13:45:02 +0000

I just wanted you to know how much your story touched my heart. I especially the part where you invite us to enter this season of rejoicing! It truly touched my heart. God Bless you all MJP