Daily Reflections
Prayer
Lord of peace, today, we are often too familiar with the strife in our world and perhaps even the strife in our lives and families. As we celebrate the memorial of St. Leo the Great, sanctify us that we might be agents of the peace he extolled, the peace of which the angels once sang. May our lives bring some measure of mercy and peace to our struggling world. In confidence we pray. Amen.
Prayer
Creator God, we learn from the creation stories in the bible that you did not create us to be alone. We have been made for each other. In a time when we seem separated by ceaseless division, help us find ways to restore the bonds of being and affection that unite all who live through your creative hand. Bless us with the gift of unity and give us the courage necessary to make it a reality in our lives and world. Amen.
Prayer
Living Lord, you are the source of all that is. You live within each of us and therefore live within each person we will encounter today. Help us to treat every person we meet today with respect, regardless of how kind or difficult they may be. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that we might strive to be a reflection of your presence in, and love for, us all. In trust, we pray. Amen.
Prayer
Faithful God, life can be hard sometimes. It can present us with challenges and obstacles that are difficult to overcome. Yet, we trust in your goodness and have confidence in your presence in our lives. Fill our hearts with courage that we might meet the challenges of life with faith and hope, persevering in goodness and in the conviction that you will never abandon us. We pray in your name. Amen.
Prayer
Holy God, you call each of us to be holy, to proclaim and embody your great love in our own living. Inspire us by the example of the great saints of Ireland that we might respond to your call to be holy through our daily commitment to extend good help with compassion and humility. May our remembrance of the great saints of Ireland this day reaffirm our dedication to the mission of our ministry and give us the courage to respond daily to your call to walk in your footsteps. We pray in humility. Amen.
Prayer
November is National Native American Heritage month. Let us join our voices with theirs as we offer this native Navajo prayer.
O great Spirit of our ancestors, I raise my pipe to you, to your messengers the four winds, and to Mother Earth who provides for your children. Give us the wisdom to teach our children to love, to respect, and to be kind to each other so that they may grow with peace of mind. Let us learn to share all good things that you provide for us on this earth. Amen.
Prayer
Eternal God, sometimes it is difficult to do your will. The many burdens of life can drain us of energy and hope. Yet, with St. Charles, we must strive to be conscious of your presence with us as much as possible. Open our hearts to your presence that we might begin today and every day with eagerness and hope. Fill us with the joy that flows from sharing your love and compassion with others. Amen.
