By Patty Wiese of New Hope, Minnesota, USA

Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace, in peace because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.

For several years I have enjoyed shopping at a major chain store, using their coupons and sale days to my advantage. A store credit card made it easier still. Recently, I bought several items at their special, one-day-only sale, feeling pressure to take advantage of yet another wonderful bargain! I spent more than I should have and when the bill arrived, I decided to pay only half the total, and half the next month.

I pay my bills online for convenience and I have been diligent in making sure there is ample time between the invoice and sending money to avoid a late fee. Imagine my dismay when I received the bill a month later with a $25 late fee attached!

Knowing I had never been late with a payment, I called the customer service department to complain. I discovered the strict store policy is to attach an automatic late fee to any account if the payment is not paid by the date due. Then I heard, “We have NO grace period.” Those words stayed with me.

How loving is our God who has an eternal grace period. God does not pressure us with an expiration date. No matter our best intents, we sometimes fail to do what God wants us to do. Yet our generous Creator continues to love us and welcome us home. God blesses us unconditionally…no coupons needed. What a bargain!

Prayer Phrase

“For by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:8).

Spiritual Practice

The Jesus Prayer of Mercy

The Jesus Prayer is an ancient spiritual practice from Orthodox Christianity. It is a way of connecting with the gracious Spirit of Christ as we ask to receive his mercy. The prayer comes from the scripture of the blind man calling Jesus to heal him. Silently enter prayer and let your breath become slow and even. Greet God and then take up the prayer phrase: Lord, Jesus Christ (as you breathe in) … have mercy on me (as you breathe out). Prayerfully repeat these words for several minutes (or forty times). Breathe the presence of Christ into your mind, heart, and body. Be transformed as you receive the compassionate, peaceful heart of Jesus.

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.