Preparing for Browning

See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now; it does not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And every one who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. 1 John 3:1-3

Today’s readings ring true in my heart that is bursting with excitement and anticipation for our immersion experience. In this Christmas season I have found myself reflecting upon how blessed I have been. My beautiful mother, while sitting beneath the tree opening gifts exclaimed, “Raven, this really is a wonderful life!” She is right and she spoke what had so clearly come to my awareness this advent. I feel fortunate to know the gift of love and the gift of being a child of God. But I feel even more fortunate and blessed to have the power to “re-gift” that love. I have no idea what we will encounter in Browning, but I do know we will be experiencing some very real, sobering things. We will see Christ as he is in the world and I am so excited to learn from the way He will work through His children. I pray for open hands to give everything, open hearts to receive whatever graces and that we will love and serve courageously.

Raven Dryden
Missoula, MT