Through the gospel of Christ a new community of tolerance, reconciliation, unity in diversity, and love is being born as a visible sign of the coming reign of God.
[Excerpted from Heal the Earth: A Restoration Imperative, Herald House, 2024, p. 65]
We are reminded about our interconnectedness in Jeremiah 29:7 and again in the Doctrine and Covenants 163:4a: “For in their welfare resides your welfare.”
The writings of the prophets invite us to find renewed strength during adversity by contemplating the presence of a benevolent Creator. Yet God’s infinite power does not lead us to abandon a parent’s tenderness, because in that presence, affection and strength are joined.
A spirituality that forgets the power of Divinity is not acceptable. That is how we end up worshiping earthly powers, or ourselves usurping the place of God, even to the point of claiming an unlimited right to trample creation.
In this universe, shaped by open and totally interrelated systems, we may discern countless forms of relationship and participation. Faith allows us to interpret the meaning and the mysterious beauty of what is unfolding before us. We then are freed to apply our intelligence toward things evolving positively, or conversely, toward adding new ills, new causes of suffering, and real setbacks.
This is what births the excitement and drama of human history in which freedom, growth, and love can blossom and inspire.
As everything is connected, concerns for Earth’s environments include a genuine love and involve the other travelers in this journey called life. That includes an unwavering commitment to resolving the problems in society. It is a matter of justice. Everything is related, and humans are united as children of God. We’re on an exciting pilgrimage, woven together by an infinite love for all creation that unites us in affection with brother sun, sister moon, brother river and Mother Earth.
We have only one heart. We cannot consider ourselves to be fully loving if we disregard any aspect of reality. Peace, justice, and the preservation of creation are three infinitely interconnected themes that cannot be separated and treated individually. It is a matter of wholeness, the definition of spirituality.
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.