Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

[From “God’s Invitation” by Laura Williams, May/June 2017 Herald, p. 40]

Christ’s disciples are those who rest their hands on your head, clap your shoulder, or send a smile of kindness your way. They are present with compassionate acceptance in times of sorrow or despair, and they represent the Son sent to show the depth for loving in each person.

They rejoice in your happiness, visit the sick, hold a child in prayer for blessings, and help in times of need. Jesus came as a child and lived God’s message. God’s invitation comes each day, every day, in every hour, at any moment, to those who will listen and respond.

Jesus came to strike an ember in your soul; to set you afire so the blind will see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, and the poor receive the good news of God’s love. Their Creator—your Creator—weeps for the poor, displaced, mistreated, and discarded of this world because of their unnecessary suffering. Such conditions are not God’s will.

Exercise your faith. Allow blessings to flow into you, throughout you, and from you. Live in the pure love Jesus modeled. Allow love to flower in your heart and burst into action. Open your eyes and see hearts overflowing with compassion.

Awaken to the gift you are meant to be in a needy world. Live the promise you made in the waters of baptism. Feel the Spirit wrap around you and sustain you in times of sorrow, trial, or pain. Open your ears and hear the songs angels sing to strengthen and lift you. Know God is with you and desires to commune with each one. Do not be afraid. The One who can number each star and follow every sparrow will not lose sight of you.

Every person has great worth. Respond to God’s eternal love and fulfill the potential that calls from within your souls.

Prayer Phrase

“And all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

Abundant Blessings

At the close of the day, reflect on where you noticed God’s blessings, especially in unexpected places. Offer a prayer of thanks and try to release any worry, trusting that God’s abundance will meet you again tomorrow.

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.