By Robin Linkhart, Council of Twelve Apostles

Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

t was a special day. Mission center members and friends gathered, in person and online, to witness and celebrate a beloved minister’s ordination to the office of evangelist. The Spirit flowed freely in our midst and holy sacred mystery touched us all. Then joy spilled over, blessing the noon festivities of potluck food and fellowship.

I ate lunch with a young single mom and her two kids. Against all odds she’d somehow found the strength to get out of a horrific situation, navigate networks of assistance programs, find a place to live, get her kids well situated in school, and get a college degree while working full-time. Then one day she met her neighborhood Community of Christ. A peaceful presence gently encircled her little family. A new and living way of being began to bloom bringing with it helping hands, new possibilities, laughter, love, and hope.

I listened as this vibrant soft-spoken woman shared about her work supporting the under-served in her community, pursuing a second degree, the challenges of balancing life, learning to drive, getting a car, her children’s joy, and an unwavering hope that sparkled in her eyes. The road was hard, and she’d come so far.

The fellowship hall hummed with human connection. Breaking bread, conversation, laughter, life, holy breath, young, old, as the sacred circled in, around, and through—weaving hearts together.

This is Christ-centered community tethered to hope, holding fast, encouraging one another in love and good deeds, and splashing love’s witness on others all along the way. The simple life of faithful discipleship, saving people from meaninglessness, and reminding them whose they are.

Prayer Phrase

“For everything created by God is good” (1 Timothy 4:4).

Spiritual Practice

Joy of Gratitude

Stand, if possible, with arms outstretched. Imagine God filling your arms with all that you have: family, friends, and possessions. Hold out your arms until they feel tired. Now, bring your arms across your body. Place your hand over your heart and thank God for the abundance that fills your life. Sit for a time aware of that abundance. Then ask God to help you open your heart in gratitude and share freely with others.

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.