Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us not to live only for some distant day when the in between will be no more, but help us to step into the mystery of that sacred space here and now – knowing that it will be a place of genuine change and true transformation. Amen
(Adapted from The Blue Book Devotional Guide by Jim Branch) Reading: Romans 12:1-8 (Click to read text) Stop and GROW: After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. QUESTION 1: What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text? QUESTION 2: What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story? QUESTION 3: What stories or memories does this text stir in me? QUESTION 4: What is God up to in this text? Reflection: In verse 2 Paul says, “do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” He speaks of a transformation to a life lived in a way that welcomes God’s will into every moment. I believe that is why the Bible I am reading from titles the section “A Living Sacrifice.” You want to sacrifice your will, for God’s. Your wants, for God’s, and trust that it is good. Perhaps this could be phrased as keeping an open mind? Then Paul immediately moves into speaking about the body of Christ, as it is comprised of individuals. Each individual brings unique talents, just as each part of your body serves a unique purpose – eyes for looking, ears for hearing, and so on… With the COVID-19 pandemic sending home workers and students all around the world, we have found ourselves in a brand-new situation. A situation such as this calls for a renewed an open mind – open to God’s call, will, and presence, and renewed to consider how we can best transform to continue serving and loving our neighbors. And a situation that has really brought to light each and every person’s purpose in the body of Christ. We are all essential workers in God’s Kingdom. Hold hope! The body of Christ is still alive and well in each and every one of us as we transform – living, worshipping, fellowshipping, working, learning, and serving in new ways. God’s mercy is new, and there to renew us every day, and every moment! --Anne Harshbarger
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