Ordinary Time

Pause

Of all the things you could be doing at this very moment, nothing is more important than experiencing God’s presence. Don’t let anything interrupt this special time with God. Set aside any worries, lists, and distractions.

Listen for God speaking to you and to whatever challenges you’re going through today. Seek wisdom. Expect to be changed and empowered.

Listen

Jesus reached for a little child, placed him among the Twelve, and embraced him. Then he said, “Whoever welcomes one of these children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me isn’t actually welcoming me but rather the one who sent me.”

Mark 9:36-37

Think

Little children have a way of reminding us of things like wonder, trust, forgiveness, and passion. Every once in a while they say or do something that reminds us of what is really important. Jesus welcomed children at a time when kids weren’t always accepted in adult gatherings. He wanted to teach his followers that wisdom from above is found in surprising places and in unexpected people. Jesus said that when we take kids seriously, we are more likely to take God seriously.

Spend a moment today acting like a little kid — try a new food, befriend a stranger, ask someone for help with a task, large or small.

It’s not emotional or financial independence that leads God to give you a welcoming embrace; it’s your childlike spirit that delights the Lord and reflects God’s own nature. Learn about God from a child today.

Jeff Gibelius

Pray

Help me to see you in the children in my life and in my neighborhood, O Lord. Let me care for and welcome them as I would welcome you. Amen.

Go

Before you return to your normal routine, think: What piece of God’s wisdom do you want to carry with you today? How did this encounter with God and God’s word touch you?

And as you go, know this: God is still speaking.

Keep listening.