By Barb Kernohan of Richmond, Ontario, Canada

But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you.

After reading the Mission Prayer and watching the snow being blown on a Sunday morning in November 2017, I felt led by the Spirit to worship with my neighbors. I attended one of the local churches in my small town. As the service drew to a close, the minister changed the final hymn.

As we sang “Here I am, Lord,” I was reminded of a time I was with my congregation in Ottawa. It was the first Sunday of the new year, and I had come seeking peace, forgiveness, and hope. A few weeks prior we had had our business meeting which left me with a heavy heart.

Even after taking Communion, my heart was restless, and peace did not come. The service was coming to a close, and I felt sad; I felt helpless. Then we sang “Here I am, Lord.” As we sang, I was reminded of when I first sang the hymn many years ago as I rededicated my life to Christ at a leadership conference in Independence, Missouri. Tears welled up in my eyes and poured down my cheeks as we sang in the Temple that day.

Once we finished singing, my grandson came up the stairs as Sunday school was over, and his booming voice called out, “Grandma, I love you.” I knew then that God was with me, and we would get through this together.

God, where will your Spirit lead today?

Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me the courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

Today, how will I courageously walk with Jesus, the peaceful One?

Spiritual Practice

Discerning Future Leadership

Pray: Prayerfully explore the church’s current situation and the world in which leadership will occur. Consider the question from your context while also being mindful of the church’s global context. What are the most significant situations, opportunities, or challenges that a prophetic leader will need to address? https://cofchrist.org/discerning-future-leadership/ 

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.