Reflection “To have faith, we must let go. Faith is like swimming the backstroke, reaching above and behind into an unknown we cannot see. Faith is like driving forward with only the rearview mirror as a guide.” –Rabbi Zalman Schachter

Prayer

Wonder-working God,

Being human means living by faith at least to some degree. Even to get out of bed and expect that the sun will still rise! Yet you have given us all the more reason to put our faith in you, completely and without condition. As a ministry together, build up our faith more, so that we may let go of what’s behind us and boldly embrace the future that you are crafting for us. With creativity, innovation, and a passion for service to others, may we embody our faith for tomorrow. Amen.

Reflection “How long must the land mourn, the grass of the whole countryside wither? Because of the wickedness of those who dwell in it beasts and birds disappear, for they say, ‘God does not care about our future.’” –Jeremiah 12:4 P

Prayer

Divine healer,

Our hearts should be grieved at the state of our planet. Not just because we have failed to take care of what you so graciously gave us to steward. But because creation itself is part of your plan. The very ground on which we walk is connected to our calling and destiny before you. Lead us to adopt a more integral mindset by which we might see these connections more clearly, across the web of life you have woven together. And may we act in such ways that extend your vision of flourishing well beyond the human family alone. Amen.

Reflection “You will cast into the depths of the sea all our sins.” –Micah 7:19 Prayer God of new beginnings, Our weaknesses and failures are cause for contrition. Yet you take no pleasure in watching us wallow in guilt and self-

Prayer

God of new beginnings,

Our weaknesses and failures are cause for contrition. Yet you take no pleasure in watching us wallow in guilt and self-loathing. Instead, you call us to freedom. To admit what we’ve done and learn from our mistakes, so we can get up and get moving forward again. Lead us to do so today, by welcoming the forgiveness and grace that you’ve won for us. And as we continue through Lent, may we rest in your promise to cleanse us and heal us and lead us to life more abundant. Amen.

Reflection “You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep Spring from coming.” –Pablo Neruda Prayer Life-giving God, It is such a blessing to witness winter’s transformation to spring. Thank you, for the deep and vibrant magic

Prayer

Life-giving God,

It is such a blessing to witness winter’s transformation to spring. Thank you, for the deep and vibrant magic of it all. As flowers bud and leaves unfold and the breeze starts to refresh us with fragrance of life all around. While nature’s beauty may not magically take our troubles away, it does give assurance to see your life-giving power so vividly displayed around us. Remind us that whatever we may be going through or the obstacles we face, your promise is secure: you are the one who brings life out of death, and you are on our side. In springtime’s hope we pray, Amen.

Reflection “Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart.” –Mahatma Gandhi Prayer Love beyond words, L

Prayer

Love beyond words,

Lead us to pray with our hearts. So that, when words fall short and we’re unable to speak, our souls will still find rest in your love and healing. As we live into this day and all it contains, empower us to pray without ceasing so that our souls’ deepest longings will be more anchored in you. And for all those today who are especially restless or weak, in mind, body, or spirit, give them your peace. Impel us to show them your heart of concern. In the love you pour out so richly upon us each day, we pray. Amen.  

Reflection “If we scan the regions of our planet, we immediately see that humanity has disappointed God’s expectations. [Humanity], especially in our time, has without hesitation devastated wooded plains and valleys, polluted waters, d

Prayer

Transforming God,

As a Catholic ministry, we are already sensitive to the deep connection between our actions each day and the health and well-being of the rest of the Earth on which we depend. Even so, sensitize us more and transform us further, so that we may become more effective advocates for the care of your creation. Make us agents of change, through, with, and in the environment you gave us. With hope and conviction, Amen.

Reflection “We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” –Confucius Prayer God of life, Life is too precious not to be lived on purpose. Today and every day, sharpen our resolve to cherish the time

Prayer

God of life,

Life is too precious not to be lived on purpose. Today and every day, sharpen our resolve to cherish the time you have given us. May we live our lives with intention, awareness, and self-reflection. As tempting as it sometimes is, to drift along and just go through the motions, lead us instead to welcome the experiences you send us and to use them for our growth and development. No matter what. Through heartache or triumph, suffering or joy. Together with you and each other, may we welcome a life more abundant today. Amen.