Autumn W

“We see the magnitude of God’s glory precisely in the meekness of God’s self-emptying.”
― Emily Hunter McGowin, Christmas: The Season of Life and Light

“Morning Prayer Gregory of Nazianzus (329–390) ☙ 15 As the sun rises, I lift my hand to you, O God, for you to determine my path. Please control my passions. Help me stand firm in your ways and live this day for you. Allow no dark words, no sin-filled acts, no base thoughts even to enter my life. Rather, watch over all my internal actions so that I may truly keep my vow to you. Please keep me from bringing shame to myself or, more importantly, to your people. Indeed, let your will be done through the grace that you give to me. Amen.”
― Jonathan W. Arnold, Cloud of Witnesses: A Treasury of Prayers and Petitions through the Ages

“When I am forced to wait, I grow. My patience, perseverance, and longing for God deepen. I learn to loosen my grip on control as I recognize, like Zechariah and Elizabeth, that no amount of righteous living can bring God’s plans into fruition. He brings them in his own time and in his own way.”
― Bette Dickinson, Making Room in Advent: 25 Devotions for a Season of Wonder

“The joy of the Lord is not a ticket to be purchased by our fasts. He is always good.”
― Esau McCaulley, Lent: The Season of Repentance and Renewal