I have been writing devotional prayer guides for several years now, and I usually have a theme that I investigate over the course of the series. This year I have once again decided to follow the lectionary used by the United Church of Canada as my guide for this summer series. The United Church, as well as many churches around the world, uses the Revised Common Lectionary, which is three-year cycle of readings. This year is “Year B” until Advent, which is the beginning of the church year and when we move into “Year C”. As well, I am participating in an online group reading the book “Untangle Your Emotions” by Jennie Allen. This group of Christian women is inspiring and some of the things we discuss on Mondays may creep into my devotions as well. Finally, just for fun, I have included a number of “theme” days from the calendar of global holidays. I have not included such days as “Build a Scarecrow Day” or “International Cherry Pit Spitting Day” (yes, they really do exist), but others such as International Forgiveness Day I thought were worthy of contemplation.
As always, these guides are intended to help you explore some of emotions and thoughts you may experience by providing a Bible reference, a reflection starter, and a prayer. If you only have a few minutes, simply read the reference, and carry the thought with you during your day. If you have more time, you may want to open the Bible translation of your choice and prayerfully read more of the reference passage. Allow the prayer to be a starting point for your own prayer time.
If you miss a day or more, don’t feel guilty or think that you need to catch up. You can if you want, but if you don’t have time or energy, simply carry on from the current day.
