By Barry Ballard of Forster, New South Wales, Australia

Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house, when you see the naked, to cover them and not to hide yourself from your own kin?

Working in a shopping center, I observed many people. One day I came across a little girl in distress because she wanted to buy her Mummy a very special birthday card, and though she had saved her money, she didn’t quite have enough.

It was a practice of mine to pick up the loose change I would find as I walked around the center, so I happily gave her the 20 cents extra she needed to buy the “very special card” for her mummy.

Immediately her tear-stained face turned to a beaming smile. I then took her to a friend’s shop and explained what this precious child wanted to do. He then helped me put together a basket of treats for her mother from some broken packages he had out the back. Afterward she gathered the goods and ran off toward where her mummy was waiting, but suddenly she stopped and ran back with a beautiful “thank you.”

I was reminded that day that sometimes so little can do so much. Remember whether it is a lot or a little, a mite or a million, your generosity makes a difference.

Prayer Phrase

“We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Sea of Light

Quiet and center yourself. Ask for God’s healing and guidance as you enter this time of prayerful presence. Close your eyes, breathing deeply and calmly. Imagine that you are floating in a beautiful sea of light that rises and falls with each cycle of your breath. The golden light of this sea buoys you up, so you float effortlessly. Waves of light carry and wash over you, bringing wholeness and peace. Rest in the sea of God’s love, then offer a prayer of gratitude.

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.