Mtr Taylor Devine

Dear Friends,

In one of this morning’s Psalms the following words provide great comfort:

I waited patiently upon the Lord;
he stooped to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the desolate pit, out of the mire and clay;
he set my feet upon a high cliff and made my footing sure.
He put a new song in my mouth,
a song of praise to our God;
many shall see, and stand in awe,
and put their trust in the Lord.

I hope that for you it is a familiar image—having come through something challenging, noticing that your footing is sure again, and taking a deep breath! In the small challenges and the big challenges of life, the gift of God’s presence and peace is something to remember and to look forward to.

My grandmother was an excellent gift-giver. One year she gave my sister and me each a framed poem that made her think of us and it was spot on. My sister’s was something about not dimming your light, but letting it shine. For a teenager, for this particular teenager, that was such an important message. “Your light shining does not obscure others’. It actually can help others grow into doing the same—sharing their light.” It was a poem, so more eloquent, but the idea seemed to stick for my sister. If you are standing firmly, don’t be shy, you may give someone else inspiration to try again, too! With all the things that come with holidays—expectations and hopes and memories—make sure you take some time to stand or sit firmly, to remember and look forward and hold onto God’s promises.

In Christ,

—Mtr Taylor

Here are some different ways to pray morning prayer—with podcasts!