Anticipating AT1–September 4, 2020

Finding meaning in these unusual times helps heal us. Matthew 25 presents a “final exam” where humans are asked how they cared for those in need. It really comes down to, do you respond to what is presented to you with compassion, or do you ignore the prompts? We have many opportunities all around us these days.

We’re so glad you’ve found Anticipating AT1. To keep our hope alive that one day we will be back together again, we are providing virtual meetings, with a new edition every Friday. Anticipating AT1 is 10-15 minutes long, and can be viewed at any time. We hope it prompts personal reflection, and is a discussion catalyst with your family and friends as you talk with them in the safe ways you connect during these unusual times.

Paul Richardson introduces this week’s edition of Anticipating AT1. Our message about compassion is presented by Pastor Brenda Billingy. Bjorn Karlman brings us Adventist trending news. And stay by to listen to Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Douce Reverie, Op. 39, No. 21” as a piano solo performed by Ellianna Ruybalid.

By the way, we are looking for musicians who will bless us with a vocal number, or something with an instrument, or piano, or keyboard, or just guitar. We want three minutes, recorded in your home, and emailed to atoday@atoday.org. If we select your video, we will give you a link to download your file at production size. If you recruit a friend to do this, you’ll be doubly blessed!

Discussion Questions:

1. It’s been said that grief is a gift. What do you think of that? Puzzled? Agree? Angry? Other?

2. In our presentation today, we are encouraged to stay with our grief and not to run from it. How does that make you feel? What can you do to work through your grief?

3. Police brutality, violent clashes, loss of property and loss of life itself seem to constantly be in the headlines. What can we do this week to be a source of strength and compassion for those around us who are experiencing loss?

Be well, and love well.