The story of Naomi’s bitterness in the book of Ruth is the subject of the ODB devotional HERE. Aren’t there some times in life when you just need to name an issue to begin addressing it?
The fact that Naomi has people call her “Mara” – bitter – perhaps helps them in relationship practices. When a person shares with others how they are feeling, it allows for discussion. In Naomi’s case that can lead to efforts of digging up the bitterness and replacing it with joy!
POSSIBLE ACTIVITIES
- reflect on any current situations that are bringing up bitterness in your life
- who might you turn to for discussion about them? if no one in your sphere comes to mind immediately, perhaps a good conversation topic for God? 🙂
PRAYER: God, help me unearth the challenges in my life and share them with you (and with others when so moved.) In so doing, may I allow myself the amazing grace you so willingly provide. Amen.
May this day provide emptying of the bitterness while filling up with joy, with stirring by the Spirit!
P.S. with a focus on “digging”
- if you’re looking for possible charities for 2024, check out DIGDEEP. Millions in the U.S. are still without easy access to clean drinking water and this organization is digging up solutions to make a difference
- before we know it gardening season will be upon us. Check out SeedSavers or another catalog to start dreaming of what you might plant in a container, your yard or in a garden plot
Lectionary Texts for Sunday, January 14, 2024:
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POTENTIAL ACTIONS – FOOD INSECURITY: This season will likely find increasing numbers of folks looking for food, presenting opportunities to
- share financial and/or food offerings with a local food pantry
- check with your faith community about upcoming opportunities to feed community members
- volunteer to help with a local mobile food pantry or community dinner
- find a Little Pantry in your area and help stock it with shelf-stable food items
- accept a Call to Action item from Season of Peace devotional posting
NOTE: for those in the Cinci region, some food organizations are listed HERE
CHRISTIAN PLAYBOOK HUMOR – click HERE for MORE humor, updated periodically.
STREAMING WORSHIP SERVICES – Cincinnati, Bowling Green and more!
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