By Virginia Spiers of Independence, Missouri USA, adapted
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.
It is a cloudy, dreary-looking morning, but I have felt the sunshine of God’s spirit from the time I awakened. I have felt the connection of the spirit God implanted in me. I have felt an abundance of gratitude for a loving and forgiving God. As a result, I have been thanking God for a zillion blessings.
Before going to bed once, I read a newspaper article that included the following words: “…the magic in the touch of a hand that brings comfort and healing and a silent promise that says I am here and you are not alone” (Sharon Randall, “That’s Life,” Independence Examiner, March 22, 2018). It jogged my memory of a troubled time in my life when I clung to a special friend for dear life.
As I thought about the experience, I realized that from my birth I have had the privilege of holding many hands, either while giving or receiving. In my mind, God holds my hands, and I give thanks for the awareness that allows me to envision that.
I have felt the need to visit others, hold their hands, and thank them for the many ways they have blessed my life and continue to impact it for good.
This I have done and all have been blessed.
Reflection Question
What has God’s abundant generosity revealed to you about God’s purpose and love?
Prayer Phrase
“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity” (2 Corinthians 9:11).
Seeing with Generous Eyes
Sit in silence for a moment and center yourself with a few deep breaths. Reflect on the past day or week. Make a list of five ways you experienced God’s generosity—through people, creation, opportunities, or unexpected grace. After each item, offer a short prayer of thanks: “God of abundance, thank you for this gift.” Conclude with “May I carry this awareness into my day and respond with generosity in return.”
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.