Advent Devotion: December 7, 2023
Psalm 80: 17-19
Transformation
The world today seems a harsh place to be. We can easily relate to the psalmist, not once but three times, asking God to “Restore us…let your face shine”. Restoration requires time; a period of waiting while also working. Waiting for the end result. Waiting for what is being restored to be saved; to be made whole and new again.
A few years ago I went through a 12-step recovery program. It was recommended to me by a friend. I had always thought that recovery programs were for addictions but this particular program focused on trauma. The program was God centered and it was a long, arduous process; a process of restoration. The thing about restoration is that it also transforms; anger to peace, despair to joy, apathy to passion, hate to love.
I enjoyed reading Linzi’s devotion yesterday. The boat house was restored and transformed into something that was different from its original intended use. Where we may see decay, others see beauty and possibility. Imagine if we applied that to everything we see in ourselves, others and our communities. What transformation might we see if we saw the possibilities rather than the obstacles?
Challenge: The world can be a harsh place to be but we do not have to fall into the spirit of harshness. As you interact with others today, make a conscious effort to bring optimism and joy into your conversations. Kindness can be restorative. Joy can be transformative.
Prayer: Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved. Amen.
Psalm 80: 17-19
Transformation
The world today seems a harsh place to be. We can easily relate to the psalmist, not once but three times, asking God to “Restore us…let your face shine”. Restoration requires time; a period of waiting while also working. Waiting for the end result. Waiting for what is being restored to be saved; to be made whole and new again.
A few years ago I went through a 12-step recovery program. It was recommended to me by a friend. I had always thought that recovery programs were for addictions but this particular program focused on trauma. The program was God centered and it was a long, arduous process; a process of restoration. The thing about restoration is that it also transforms; anger to peace, despair to joy, apathy to passion, hate to love.
I enjoyed reading Linzi’s devotion yesterday. The boat house was restored and transformed into something that was different from its original intended use. Where we may see decay, others see beauty and possibility. Imagine if we applied that to everything we see in ourselves, others and our communities. What transformation might we see if we saw the possibilities rather than the obstacles?
Challenge: The world can be a harsh place to be but we do not have to fall into the spirit of harshness. As you interact with others today, make a conscious effort to bring optimism and joy into your conversations. Kindness can be restorative. Joy can be transformative.
Prayer: Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved. Amen.
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Cristi (she/her) is the Director of Administration for Youth Mission Co. Along with her work at YMCo, she has also worked with several Asheville churches and nonprofits. Cristi enjoys traveling, reading, reading, more reading and spending time with her children (her son-in-laws too!) and granddaughter. |
