Ordinary Time

Pause

We make space for God’s Spirit to fill us. A new identity – a new purpose – wells up within.

This new way of being comes not from our hearts alone; it comes from Jesus Christ and his righteousness.

Breathe in these words and know that you are loved: “Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me.” (from The Prayer of St. Patrick)

Listen

The righteousness that I have comes from knowing Christ, the power of his resurrection, and the participation in his sufferings. It includes being conformed to his death so that I may perhaps reach the goal of the resurrection of the dead.

Philippians 3:10-11

Think

In the Hebrew Bible, to know God involved both a covenant relationship (community) and a personal fellowship with God (individual). To know God fully we need both in our lives.

We need the community of sisters and brothers in faith to walk alongside us. We need the wisdom and guidance of those around us to help us see more clearly what God might be calling us to do and who God may be calling us to be.

We also need to develop the personal rhythms of life with God in our individual lives. If we can do that, then we can face all circumstances with the knowledge that we are never truly alone.

Paul says here that his ultimate goal is about “knowing Christ.” Today reflect on those around you who help you to know Christ more fully and then remember that you are never alone, even in your darkest days.

Tyler Tankersley

Pray

God, I seek to know you more fully. Give me a sense of gratitude for the community of faithful saints that surround me and help me to cultivate my life in the pursuit of knowing you more fully. Help me to be part of your resurrection people. Amen.

Go

As you depart from this moment, may you know that the righteousness of Jesus Christ walks with you wherever you go.

Music

Upon the Eternal

Jon Chacko