Pastor's Corner
December 2005

A simple Advent discipline to help us keep ourselves awake and alert in the midst of a Gethsemane world is the practice of taking a few moments at the end of each day to jot down a “gratitude list:” the things, ordinary and exceptional, for which we give thanks. A friend of mine who began this habit a while back swears by its lasting effect. It’s a positive way to keep mindful of the many ways God blesses our lives each day. It has been said that gratefulness is the heart of prayer.

Anne Lamott, one of my favorite authors, says that her spiritual life consists of two basic prayers: “Help!” and “Thanks.” Why not start each day with the former and conclude each day with the latter. Taking the time to write them down will help us remember and realize the depth and breadth of God’s love, surrounding every moment of our Advent journey.

Shalom,

Maureen

Maureen Dickmann, M. Div

Yale Divinity School, 1984

Pastor of Rockbrige Christian Church since 1987

Maureen has served on boards of directors and as president for local Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank, and Missouri School of Religion.

She has also served on the board of Comprehensive Human Services (Women's Shelter and Youth Homes) and the Anti-Racism Pro-Reconciliation Team of Mid-America.

Maureen won the Norenberg Prize for excellence in Preaching and Worship Leadership. She has also been published in "Preaching: Word and Witness."