When I was a child, the phrase “The Lord is in His Holy Temple” was sung as an opening anthem or part of the liturgy for worship. It is a phrase that takes on special significance particularly when we seem to feel vulnerable or depressed or know that we have really blown it. Entering the doorway of the church, God’s holy temple, we discover something very powerful wrapped up in those words.

There is a quietness in this reading. It is filled with the assurances that God is present and wants to be part of our lives. Quietness allows us to recognize God’s presence, God’s faithful help and compassion.

The entire trip became an experience of finding God, praising God, and experiencing his presence in our walks along the Oregon coast. It is a joy, peace, and vigor that comes when we include God in the events and everydayness of our lives. Joy and peace help us see God as the giver and provider of all that is good.

“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention.”

May we be the bread that feeds others, the bread that radiates with the aroma of hope and life, the bread that reflects Jesus, the Bread of Life.

The Gospels record that Jesus declares himself to be “The Light of the world” (John 8:12). This Light cannot be extinguished – not even by death! And so, the story of God’s love is recorded.

Today, I feel the need to be in the presence of Jesus. I yearn to hear his voice and to hear his words for me. I am Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus, letting the preparations of the day be set aside.

It is Advent as I write. Wars and deaths and fear still fill our lives. As we look at ourselves, our world, and the chaos around us, instead of despair, we “Wait for the Lord!” Something new will break through all the gloom.

As house parents for youth and teens who were troubled or came from unstable homes, it was our duty to keep these ten boys safe.

God says: “No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.”