Scripture: Acts 4:32-35 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%204%3A32-35&version=NRSV
Contemplation and Conversation: What is the Spirit inviting you to share?
From Brent Stiles:
Enrique's sisters … I was visiting my sponsor child Enrique in Rio Azul, Guatemala and brought along some teddy bears for all his siblings. The teddies look like they were hand-made by loving hands and they were given to me to distribute to children in Guatemala. Living in poverty, these girls had very few toys of their own. They lived in the remote mountains far away from big box stores with aisles and aisles of toys that are obtainable to many Canadian children. The children spoke Ixil (Mayan language) so there was that language barrier between us. However, the smiles on their faces told me they were grateful for their gifts.
As I journeyed through Lent I was reminded of the faces where I have seen Jesus in smiles and loving eyes. I am reminded of His love for children and how he brought them into His warm embrace. He cared for all children … including the children with few toys and the children with a room full of toys. (Image taken by me in Rio Azul, Guatemala.)
Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs." Matthew 19:13-15
"Holy Parent, you fashioned us with your own hands.
You knew us intimately before we were born.We are your children.
Thank you for loving us as we are and welcoming us into your embrace. Amen."
Prayer taken from: Confronted by Jesus; Daily Reflections for Lent, United Church Publishing House.
Whether you are at home trying to help slow the spread of the virus,
working to help care for those who are impacted most by COVID-19
or working to keep some normalcy in this time,
may you know God’s deep and abiding love
and the peace of Christ in your life.
Know you are a valued part of our Rockwood and Stone United Church families.
