I Thessalonians 5 16-24 v 20 -21 “Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.”
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.” Stay away from evil. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless. God will make this happen because He is faithful.
In such a short passage there is much wisdom. Years of organizing Christmas has left me overly anxious and hypersensitive to getting “all the jobs done”. Here I am reminded to be always joyful! Also, to never stop praying. Let’s take a moment!
“Heavenly God, who sent Angels to the Shepherds, a star to the wise men, and dreams to Mary and Joseph guide us today. Take away our burdens of anxiety and make us joyful in all we do as we hold on to what is good. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
What of the future? Prophecies of global warming, reconciliation for Indigenous people throughout the world, wars, hunger, and the poor? Test everything and hold on to what is good.
Holy God, help me to share what I have with those around me, and with the wider world. To practice things that are good for mother earth, that promote peace, and help the poor. Amen.
And remember too that you, your whole spirit, soul, and body will be made whole because God is faithful and can make this happen.
Father God who loves all who turn to Him, we thank you for showing us your love in the smiles of friends and family, in a warm cup of hot chocolate, in the beautiful morning and evening skies. May you bless all those who read this with healing of their bodies, lessening of their worries and give them joy in their hearts as we hold on to what is good, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
CrossWalk 