Psalm 26, 28, 36, 39 • Amos 7:10-17, 24-25 • Matthew 22:34-46
Middle school for me was a difficult time. I was differentiating myself from my parents, coming to understand my body, and realizing who my friends were. It was a time to realize who I was and who I was not. I was not an athlete but I was a leader on student council. I was not a scientist, but I was a singer.
Since turning 50 I feel like I’m in middle school. 50 has been difficult and awkward. I’ve been wondering who my friends are, coming to understand my body with its new limitations and I’m still differentiating myself. Thankfully, I carry with me wisdom and self-awareness. Some questions are the same- Who am I? Who am I not? There are new questions: What have I done with my life? What is my next thing?
The prophet Amos shared in our struggle as he came to realize what he was not. He stated emphatically that he was not a prophet. By doing so, he created space to become what God intended for him: a prophet that tended the tree that fed the poor, and who cared for his flock by insuring they were safe. Amos found his next thing!
In this Advent, prepare the way for something new within yourself by filling in the blanks: I am not ___but I am ____.
May this time become for you an opportunity to create space by removing what you are not and becoming what God calls you to be.
Gracious God, may I trust in who you are calling me to become and speak to truth from that place of knowing. Amen.
Aimee Bostwick
Master of Spiritual Formation, Class of 2021
The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Austin, Texas
Listen to Aimee read her meditation and prayer:
Aimee Bostwick joined the Good Shepherd staff in 2014. As the Director of Programs, she oversees parish life events and Christian formation for all ages in hopes of encouraging collaboration between all members of the parish. Aimee’s role at Good Shepherd brought her to Austin from Virginia, where she served as Diocesan Youth Coordinator for the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia for eight years. Aimee is currently attending the Seminary of the Southwest to pursue her masters in Spiritual Formation. Her passion is for all to feel welcomed into the Episcopal Church and experience God’s Love. Aimee has two children, Hunter and Arden, and is married to Hank. Together they enjoy hiking, camping, cooking for others and dancing to all sorts of music.
The Advent Meditations and Prayers are a gift to our seminary community and are made possible through gifts to our Annual Fund. Seminary of the Southwest appreciates the support of its friends, alumni, and the communities around the world that its graduates serve for the glory of God. This support ensures that Southwest, as an institution made of individuals dedicated to service to God and their fellow members of the body of Christ, can continue doing its part to build the body of Christ.
