Shannon's Corner

  SHANNON’S CORNER Merry Christmas! As I have been preparing my heart, mind, and body for this advent season I have been studying two hymns, “ Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus ” and “ O Come, O Come Emmanuel . ” How interesting that our prayers today often sound just like that of Israel’s in wait of a savior, ‘ How long O’ Lord? ’  The paradox of this prayer is that it seems a cry of despair, and it is an age-old prayer of hope.  In the paradox of waiting for His birth, Jesus meets us in the wonder, silence, traditions, service, and grief of the season.  How is Jesus meeting you in this Christmas/Advent season?   I enjoyed the road trip I made with Bethann as we traveled to New Castle, PA to do a three-hour training for those folks who serve at City Rescue Mission.  Connecting with these folks, hearing some of their stories, and even meeting some who know my family, a cousin and my aunt was wonderful.  Plus getting to spend time ...

   SHANNON’S CORNER Tis the season of gratitude and thanksgiving. I have so much that I am grateful for that could fill up pages so I will just share from this past month what I am grateful.   My family.   I am thankful for each one and how they have impacted my life this year in one way or another.  Even with our differences that we love and care for one another.  It was great to celebrate Thanksgiving together and share with one another what we have been grateful for over this past year.  Also, loved playing four-square with the nieces and nephews and spicey Uno with the older nieces and adults. My global church family – the body of Christ.   God using you to chip away my hard edges that I have grown and matured in my spiritual walk and have been challenged by you all, my fellow brothers, and sisters in Christ.  I have been encouraged, strengthened, and refreshed by you.  Your prayers on my behalf as ...

  SHANNON’S CORNER Quality time is one of my love languages and so spending time with some amazing people was such a delight.  I spent a week with Ryan and Haylie while Brenda and Mark celebrated their anniversary in Iceland.  I was pleasantly surprised as I was in the area to see Rylie play her first college softball game for Grove City College.  I really enjoyed watching Morgan play volleyball.  Hanging out on the sidelines with Bryan, Britt, Dad, Maureen, and Jane.  Hanging out with Rachel and Theo to see Jack play soccer and Miro coaching the team and later in the car as we drove to see Mary Jane, Kurt, Oliva, James, and Aliza to help Mary Jane with her project. Since most of my ministry is virtual it really makes traveling convenient.  It has been a blessing and a delight to facilitate my  Facebook Connection Group  of women who are in transition this month.  Just having other like-minded women who...