Ordinary Time

Pause

We are on a journey to be more like Jesus – seeking ways to love God, love neighbor, seek peace, and do justice. This week's theme is about Being. In this moment, think about how difficult 'being' might be for many of our black and brown brothers and sisters... Now, listen for ways we can foster community where everyone can be and be together in grace, and in Christ.

Listen

Examine me, God! Look at my heart! Put me to the test! Know my anxious thoughts! Look to see if there is any hurtful way in me, then lead me on the eternal path!

Psalm 139:23-24

Think

The Psalm writer moves from being grateful for God’s presence as shared in the earlier verses in this Psalm to inviting God to “put me to the test!” This is an expression of an active faith. As we are confident in God’s love and presence, then we want to follow God and be on God’s forever path of love.

When we claim to follow Christ, we want to be better, more faithful people. We want God to examine us and show us our blind spots so that we can be nicer to others, more patient with our little brother or sister, more loving to those we encounter. When we love and follow God, we put away our first instinct to fight and instead strive to love. We put down our selfishness and instead strive to be selfless. We wear a mask in a public space not for our own safety but to protect those whom we encounter, who are people loved by God. We want to be on God’s forever path of love!

David Burroughs

Pray

Great and Gracious God, move in my heart in this moment. I claim to follow you. I want my life to emulate your love and grace and presence to everyone I encounter – those I know and love, and those I may meet this week. I will be more patient, kinder, gentler, and more loving. I pray for eyes to see the world as you see the world. I pray in the name of Jesus your son, Amen.

Go

Take a moment and breathe in these words: “Suddenly the Lord was saying, I am with you now, and will protect you wherever you go.”