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Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.

Forward Day By Day MONDAY, January 23
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MONDAY, January 23

John 4:43-54. Now this was the second sign that Jesus did after coming from Judea to Galilee.

Jesus is back in Cana, the place where he had turned water into wine at a wedding feast. This time he heals an official’s son. The writer of the Gospel of John calls it the second sign that Jesus did.

It is only in the Gospel of John that we hear of “signs.” John saw Jesus’ miracles as signs that pointed to his divinity. They pointed to the fact that God was acting in him and through him.

Woody Allen once said, “If only God would give me some clear sign! Like making a large deposit in my name at a Swiss bank.” We all long for clear signs. Yet there are signs of God’s presence in our lives every day. Do we watch for them?

We often use the words “coincidence” and “serendipity” to describe unexpected moments of revelation or synchronicity. Could it be that God is acting through them, that these are signs pointing us to God’s presence? There are also signs of change, signs of new challenges and directions that we might prefer to ignore.

Look carefully at your life. Look carefully at the world around you. Can you see the signs?

PRAY for the Diocese of Albany (Province II, USA)

Ps 41, 52 * 44; Genesis 14:(1-7)8-24; Hebrews 8:1-13

View the daily Lectionary Readings at http://satucket.com/lectionary/

Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com or Oremus Bible browser.

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Comments (7)Add Comment
...

Jan 23, 2012 at 6:26 am

Written by Colleen Lambert,

I tend to call these moments " God things" or God's blessings, and feel much better knowing he is watching over me.
...

Jan 23, 2012 at 6:31 am

Written by Gail J in N.C.,

When we do look around for signs, we'll see an abundance of them. God is not stingy with his love and blessings.

Jesus turned 6 huge pots of water into wine, certainly well over 100 gallons. Jesus provided abundantly, and CONTINUES to abundantly show us signs of his presence.
...

Jan 23, 2012 at 6:49 am

Written by Focus,

The first, a sign of power, the second, a sign of healing. Both point to Jesus as the promised Messiah. New signs for an old Promise. The truth marches on.
Synchronicity

Jan 23, 2012 at 9:23 am

Written by Mary kier,

This is a word used by Jung in his belief that there are no coincidences. I had some Jungian therapy and one of the most powerful experiences was when we analyzed dreams. There was no question in my mind that listening to the psyche is one way God communicates with us. Also I have developed very strong instincts. If I choose the wrong path I actually get physical symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, (not simple fear of change) that time after time show me to put the brakes on that decision. Then the symptoms and sress go away and I feel happy and at peace. ( This is based on decisions I make, not life altering events that happen to us, -- death of loved one, job loss, or disasters from nature--which also can be a difficult time for spiritual growth.)

I too have a name for those moments throughout the day when we can see or feel God working in our day. a friend of mine calls them "God winks"!
...

Jan 23, 2012 at 10:43 am

Written by E. Linda Cushner,

Every morning is a sunrise gift from God. Sometimes the signs are very great and awesome like a new job or a healing or a relationship and other times it is just a hug or a smile or a phone call. Sometimes it is just the acknowledgement of HIs presence within yourself. Sometimes it is just a peaceful feeling when You are alone and You know that You are in harmony with your Creator. For me those are the best "signs".
...

Jan 23, 2012 at 12:21 pm

Written by Marti,

Expect and encounter God...He will be there.
My Lord

Jan 23, 2012 at 1:05 pm

Written by Queen Campbell,

My Lord has been my Strength,my Light, my Breath, my everything. HE has been here for me and done so many miracles in my life that I can't forget. HE is the ruler of my Life my KING. I love him because he fixes everything I want and need...sometimes I don't need things, and He still delivers me, many Blessings. Thank YOU LORD For all you have given me and forgiving me for my error's in my life. I love you with all my heart. And I fear no man, but YOU LORD!!! Thank YOU for watching over me and my loved ones...Keep us safe from the evil Lord.....In the name of Jesus...Amen!

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