The Week of Hope
You are our living hope, Lord, as we celebrate your promises for our present and our future on your birthday. We are your grateful people. Amen
Weekly Advent Prayers by Betty Claire Jackson
By Jennie Mayes
Psalm 63:1-8
The Message
1 God—you’re my God! I can’t get enough of you!
I’ve worked up such hunger and thirst for God,
travelling across dry and weary deserts.
2-4 So, here I am in the place of worship, eyes open,
drinking in your strength and glory.
In your generous love I am really living at last! My lips brim praises like fountains.
I bless you every time I take a breath; My arms wave like banners of praise to you.
5-8 I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It’s time to shout praises!
If I’m sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection.
Because you’ve always stood up for me, I’m free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post.
In 2016, two close family members faced crises in their lives, and I desired comfort, peace, control, and resolution of their pain. As often happens when those around us face challenges, control eluded me. Each day, I awoke to face the news and circumstances of that day, not knowing if or how things would resolve. Even though I couldn’t control what was happening, God brought people into my life. Some of these people were my Woodland family! God used you and others to speak peace and comfort into my soul. I’m so thankful that God meets our physical needs for survival, but also meets those deep, yearning soul needs that carry us through tough, hard times. When God meets our other appetites for adventure, travel, or friendship, it’s like the prime rib and gravy of verse 5 above. As we enter this season of waiting, may you expectantly find opportunities to turn your appetites into a way of filling up others around you. As God fills us up, may we point others to God as a source for their fulfillment as well.