Simple Acts

Simple Acts

Prayer

God of justice and peace, sometimes we can surrender to the temptation that history is made only by significant events and people. Sometimes we can think that our contribution makes little difference in a world with such massive challenges. Yet, the wise through the centuries have always understood the importance of simple, everyday acts. Stir within us the power of your wisdom that we might grow in our appreciation of the difference we can make. Give us the courage to act with goodness where we are. We pray in faith. Amen.

Goodness

Goodness

Prayer

God of all, we live in contentious times and sometimes diversity can sound like a bad word to some. Help us in these difficult times, Lord, to see your presence in each other. As we celebrate Multicultural Diversity Day, help us to remember that you are the creator of us all and that we each reflect your goodness in a unique way. May we find blessing both in what we celebrate and in what we promote. Amen.

Courage

Courage

Prayer

Gracious God, in a world that often calls us to be brave, we sometimes do not feel courageous. Fill our hearts with the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we might realize that sometimes courage is expressed, not in radical deeds, but in the consistent willingness to try each day to be better than the day before. Open our hearts to your presence in our lives that we might live each day confident that you are with us always. With confidence in you, we pray. Amen.

Nourishment

Nourishment

Prayer

Sustaining Lord, we live in a world of such bounty. And yet we know far too many wake up hungry, struggle for nourishment through the day, and go to bed hungry. May our celebration of World Food Day inspire us to transform this reality, making our own contribution to creating a world in which everyone participates in the bounty of God’s creation. In God’s name, we pray. Amen.

Dependence

Dependence

Prayer

Lord of all, sometimes our culture can be hyper-focused on personal independence and strength, tempting us to believe life is primarily about the pursuit of our own desires and will. Inspire us by the words and example of St. Teresa of Avila to recognize and accept that the call at the center of our life is to pursue the will of God. May the example of her life foster within us a profound commitment to God’s will today and every day. We pray in the name of the God who creates and calls us. Amen.

Gratitude

Gratitude

Prayer

Loving Lord, we continue to live in the midst of a global pandemic. Daily reports on cases and deaths, mask wearing and social distancing, have for many become the new normal. Taking the reality and the consequences of COVID-19 for granted, we can sometimes forget that so many still sacrifice on a daily basis to keep us safe and healthy. Stir within our hearts a spirit of gratitude for those who risk their lives to advance our safety and security. Protect them in your love and guide their efforts. Amen.