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Devotional for Monday, June 7, 1999 by Mary Jane Hanson
Micah 6:8 - And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (NRSV)Almost two years ago, I was told that my job was being eliminated. I was fortunate in many ways as I was given a choice of taking a job with different duties, or going back to a previous job. However, in my heart of hearts, I did not want either of the jobs offered. I was really enjoying my present job.
My place of employment is a progressive institution and we have an Employee Assistance Program. I was able to go and talk with a social worker and obtain help to get through this crisis. I did return to my previous job.
I did not welcome this crisis into my life, but I took advantage of it. God placed me in a position to work toward personal growth and change, which I now see as a blessing.
If the Employee Assistance Program had not acted as my advocate in this situation, I could have become a bitter and angry person who believed that she was not being treated fairly. I would not have tapped into the opportunity to grow significantly in my personal and faith life. The crisis has drawn me closer to God.
I am thankful to God for Employee Assistance Programs, and for anyone who comes to support a friend or neighbour who is going through a stressful situation. Through this experience of having an advocate in a crisis, I am learning how to care for others. God is beginning to send people across my path, and I can sense their need of my help in difficult times. It matters not whether I help through praying, listening or encouraging. I know that I need to be there.
I am reminded that we have an advocate in the Holy Spirit, who comes into our lives to guide us daily, if we but ask. This is an important lesson to learn. May God be with each one of us through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Loving God, we thank you for sending people to support us in times of difficulty, as well as friends who need our help in crisis times. We rejoice anew in the knowledge of the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives if we but ask. It is wonderful that we have an advocate to help us every day. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Mary Jane Hanson <mjh013@sasktel.net>
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Today's Music:
El Shaddai.