Ordinary Time

Pause

God’s standards are pretty high.

Each day presents a new choice – to follow the path of God or carve out your own.

Which will you choose?

Listen

The Lord said to Moses, Say to the whole community of the Israelites: You must be holy, because I, the Lord your God, am holy.

Leviticus 19:1-2

Think

Can you imagine a more daunting task from God than to be holy? Sure, it’s easy to not murder someone and to avoid stealing — but how exactly can a person be holy like God? That seems like such an unfair request to ask of us.

While all people bear God’s image, God realizes humanity is not perfect. That should come as a relief to those of us who feel like it’s impossible to live up to the standards others create for us. Failing tests or not making a team happens, and then we pick ourselves up and try again. In the same way, failing to keep God’s commandments or occasionally losing sight of God happens. We keep going, admit we were wrong, and do the best we can. Perhaps this is what God understands as holy – the continual pursuit of living a godly life knowing we may never quite get there.

Stacie Whalen

Pray

Wonderful Creator, thank you for the body and mind you gave me. I realize that I will never be perfect, but guide my way as I strive to serve you to the best of my abilities. Amen.

Go

Go recognizing God’s image in yourself and others.

Stand up for what is right; live your life in a way pleasing to God.

Be kind to everyone and let your actions speak louder than your words.