Daily Reflections
Prayer
God of love, we are able to love others because you first love us. Fill us with gratitude for the gift of your love, a gift that makes all things possible. Inspire us by the example of your Son Jesus that we may lead lives shaped by love. Guide our hearts that we might always strive to be better reflections of your love in and for the world. We pray this in the name of your Son Jesus. Amen.
Prayer
Faithful God, sometimes we want to know, to understand, to see before we can commit to faith in you and your promise. Yet, we know that knowledge, understanding, and sight come through faith and an openness to your presence in our lives. Strengthen our faith this day that we might see you in others, encounter you within ourselves, and dedicate ourselves more courageously to your call. Amen.
Prayer
God of goodness and peace, Your love for us is unwavering. In good times and in bad, on days of sunshine and days of rain, your love remains. Help us to be mindful today and all days of the bounty of your love. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may respond with commitment and courage to your call to love others as you love us. Stir within us a spirit of thanksgiving for your goodness and an openness to share your goodness with others. We pray in your name. Amen.
Prayer
Gracious God, history books are often filled with grand moments and the people who shaped those moments. But our personal histories and the histories of our communities are often written in simple stories, everyday experiences, and ordinary encounters. We thank you, Lord, for the kindness we have experienced in life. And we ask that you fill our hearts with your love that we might reach out in kindness to all we encounter today. Amen.
Prayer
God of life, the beginning of a New Year is often a time of great optimism and hope. As our Muslim sisters and brothers celebrate the birth of a New Year, may we dedicate ourselves to the exploration of joy and the firmness of resolution. Open our hearts and minds to your presence and truth that we might pursue the year ahead with compassion and love. Amen.
Prayer
God of all good things, these past months have focused our gratitude on the labor and sacrifice of front-line workers. We have grown in our appreciation of doctors and nurses, delivery personnel, first responders, grocery workers, and so many others. Lord, give us the strength and courage to not only express our gratitude but to be people of gratitude. May their example inspire us to become people willing to lead lives of service and love, giving of ourselves for the good of others. We pray in your name. Amen.
Prayer
Faithful and ever-living God, thank you for the many gifts you give us, for the many blessings you bestow upon us. Thank you especially for the gift of your presence in our lives. Fill us with the gift of your Holy Spirit who will inspire us to pray. Grant us the discipline to spend time with you each day and open our hearts that we will be transformed by you through prayer. We pray as we live, in your name. Amen.
