Ordinary Time 
Pause
How can I be an instrument of compassion for my neighbor?
Listen
Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger because you are with me. Your rod and your staff—they protect me.
You set a table for me right in front of my enemies. You bathe my head in oil; my cup is so full it spills over! Yes, goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the Lord’s house as long as I live.
Psalm 23:4-6
Think
Every day we face adversities and challenges, yet we can always find comfort and security in God’s constant presence. When we are faced with darkness, whether at home, at school, at work, or anywhere we go, it can confuse us along the way. It’s important to remember that God as our shepherd leads us to a safe place. In our scripture for today, the image of the banquet amid enemies reminds us of God’s divine protection and unconditional love that surrounds us, even in the midst of hostility and adversity.
When we are faced with darkness, there are lots of reasons we might feel overwhelmed. Maybe there are people in our lives or memories from the past that make us feel helpless, but here comes God with the Spirit to give us confidence. If God brings us out of the darkness, we must show compassion to those who are still there. Once we have experienced God’s goodness and love, we are called to share that same goodness and love with those around us.
Bryan Vélez Garcia
Question to Ponder:
How can you show compassion to those going through difficult times?
Pray
God, I come to you to thank you for a new day. Even when I may see gray clouds around me, help me to trust and remind others that we must trust you.
Amen.
Go
Live like an instrument of God’s compassion.
