Listen

Make sure no one repays a wrong with a wrong, but always pursue the good for each other and everyone else.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

Think

This is the start of a new school year. One which for many of us will be the first time going to in-person school in over a year and a half. Returning to social situations such as school can be overwhelming for many people who struggle with anxiety, so it’s more important than ever to show compassion. And while sometimes the path to compassion is easy, often it seems nearly impossible.

When I’m faced with a situation where compassion seems impossible, I try to remember this: we never know what is really going on in other peoples’ lives, so it is not our place to judge and hate their actions. Although it is hard, it is always better to act in love and kindness, just as Jesus showed us. With that in mind, it is easier for me to show love to those who don’t show love to others.

Elizabeth Thorne

Pray

Lord, help me to learn to love not just my friends but my enemies, too. I understand that love does not mean agreement, but it does mean understanding. Help me to understand those who show others hate – not so that I can be like them but so that I can show compassion towards them. Give me strength to extend love to those who may not have been shown it before. Amen.

Go

God of Grace, be the light that guides us.

God of Peace, be the strength that carries us.

God of Love, be the tie that binds us.

Together.