Reflection “The spiritual life does not remove us from the world but leads us deeper into it.” –Henri Nouwen Prayer Creator of all, Where did we get the idea that being spiritual somehow means being other-worldly? Free us from be

Prayer

Creator of all,

Where did we get the idea that being spiritual somehow means being other-worldly? Free us from believing that the spiritual path leads us away from the concrete realities around us. Instead we ask you lead us more fully into that fruitful intersection, where our spiritual lives are fed and nourished by serving the material needs we see all around us. Amen.

Reflection “If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” –Jack Kornfield Prayer God of compassion, Improving the health and well-being of our patients and communities is at the center of all that we do and say

Prayer

God of compassion,

Improving the health and well-being of our patients and communities is at the center of all that we do and say as a ministry. Yet so much work and stress and strain can attend this call that we sometimes exclude ourselves from our vision of compassion. Open our eyes. Make us aware of the dangers of neglecting our own health and well-being, and inspire us to seek interventions. Help us help one another to include ourselves in our circle of compassion. As we follow you in service and love, we pray. Amen.

Reflection “A problem is often half-solved when it is clearly stated.” –Dorothea Brande Prayer Caring Spirit, We face many issues in life that seem to hold us in their grip, rather than the other way around. As a ministry, empowe

Prayer

Caring Spirit,

We face many issues in life that seem to hold us in their grip, rather than the other way around. As a ministry, empower us to get a clear and firm grip on the issues around us that most deserve our attention. For the sake of our communities and neighbors, our patients and families, for all those who look to us as a sign of hope and healing. Give us clarity of purpose and a keen attention to the real needs of others. Help us solve the problems we can while accompanying all people with care and concern, no matter their plight. Amen.

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.