Ordinary Time

Pause

From time to time, we all make decisions which cause hurt to someone we love. Our decisions can result in estrangement and alienation in our relationships, including our relationship with God.

It is not easy to admit our human failure or to seek forgiveness from those whom we have alienated or injured. The good news is that God longs to be in relationship with us. God offers forgiveness and grace, even when we fall short.

So come and rest in the grace of God.

Listen

We don’t focus on the things that can be seen but on the things that can’t be seen. The things that can be seen don’t last, but the things that can’t be seen are eternal.

We know that if the tent that we live in on earth is torn down, we have a building from God. It’s a house that isn’t handmade, which is eternal and located in heaven.

2 Corinthians 4:18-5:1

Think

Things consume the American culture. Shopping is the American past-time, and our motto is often, “More is better.” In this mindset new is better than old; upgrading and updating is a way of life. Our homes, garages, and cars are full of “too much stuff.” Our landfills are evidence that ours is a throw-away culture.

In recent years there has been a growing movement of “living simply so that others can simply live.” For many, downsizing is becoming the new way of life. Those who are choosing to abandon the “stuff” culture are learning that real meaning in life comes from relationships and economic freedom rather than materialism and debt.

The apostle Paul reminds us that the things of the world are temporary, but the things of God are eternal and cannot be destroyed. May God fill your heart with eternal gifts rather than things of the world.

Annell George-McLawhorn

Pray

God, fill my life with the eternal. Help me to put aside the material goods of the world for your gifts of the spirit. I celebrate your forgiveness that lifts me up when I fail. Amen.

Go

God’s love for you is unconditional. God’s forgiveness is sure.

Live a life of gratitude for God’s grace. Offer to others the forgiveness that God has offered to you. By learning and living a life of forgiveness, your heart will be lightened, and your soul will soar.