May 21, 2020

Daily Devotions


Meditation, Prayers, and Assorted Stuff for May 21, 2020

Henri Nouwen, Bread for the Journey, “Jesus’ Compassion

There is something beautiful about shyness, even though in our culture shyness is not considered a virtue. On the contrary, we are encouraged to be direct, look people straight in the eyes, tell them what is on our minds, and share our stories without a blush. But this unflinching soul-baring, confessional attitude quickly becomes boring. It is like trees without shadows. Shy people have long shadows, where they keep much of their beauty hidden from intruders’ eyes. Shy people remind us of the mystery of life that cannot be simply explained or expressed. They invite us to reverent and respectful friendships and to a wordless being together in love.

The World Council of Churches has placed a number of COVID-related prayers on its website, written by Christians from all over the world. Today’s comes from Rev. Dr. Manhong Melissa Lin, China Christian Council.

When human life is disturbed, disrupted, and threatened by the novel coronavirus, we pray to you, God of life. Grant us the compassion, humility, and self-discipline to value, care about, and protect each life.

We pray to you, God of mercy, for all who have suffered directly and indirectly during this global pandemic. May you sustain, console, and heal them.

We pray to you, God of grace, for all good efforts to rescue life and maintain people’s health. May you strengthen, guide, and protect all who have committed to fight against this disease.

We pray to you, God of righteousness, for justice to prevail. May you lead us to combat racism, discrimination, stigmatization, and xenophobia with courage in the midst of this health crisis.

We pray to you, God of love, for an early end to the transmission of COVID-19 that is harming all, and for life, health, and peace for all, through your mercy, grace, and loving care, and through human solidarity, integrity, and mutual support. Amen.

Dad Jokes of the Day

Did you hear about the guy who invented Lifesavers? (They say he made a mint.)

5/4 of people admit that they are bad with fractions

Why did the octopus beat the shark in a fight? (It was well-armed.)

Why was the big cat disqualified from the race? (He was a cheetah.)

Today’s links! 

https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/weird/mississippi-gov-tate-reeves-high-school-grads-prank/522-06d80262-bd04-4e8e-bf82-632cc0a2489eMississippi Gov. Tate Reeves should have seen this joke coming.


https://www.insider.com/noma-reopens-post-lockdown-as-wine-and-burger-bar-copenhagen-2020-5Noma in Copenhagen, the former best restaurant in the world, reopens today as a wine and burger bar. The menu will have only two items, a cheeseburger and veggie burger. Both will cost $18 as takeout or $22 to eat in. Wine starts at $14 by the glass or $62 by the bottle, while beer starts at $7 a bottle. Considering a meal at Noma normally costs between $353 to $377 without drinks, it’s still a deal! Right??


https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/12/us/peacock-zoo-mating-call-trnd/index.html Read how police in Boston corralled an amorous male peacock that escaped from the Franklin Park Zoo.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=RWLx2FDUt8M&feature=emb_logoI dare you…no, I DOUBLE dare you, not to like this video of what has to be the world’s cutest little girl taking time off from her class trip to dance along while pianist Brendan Kavanaugh plays songs from “Mary Poppins.”


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJP3fhan75oWhat’s that? You want to hear more “Tuba Skinny?” Of course you do! Listen here and here— and check out the dancers! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUwE-yXHbsE

Sunday worship at 9 AM, with “Doughnut room” time starting at 8:30 AM. Come early just to catch up and talk!
Zoom info is the same every Sunday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/815064120, Meeting ID: 815 064 120
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7 PM Bible study next Wednesday, May 27, will dive into Acts 8-9. Join us! https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85847527283, Meeting ID: 858 4752 7283

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Dial in to participate in either event at +1 312 626 6799.

Stay safe and stay well! 

Bob