Reflection Prayer God of truth, Our hearts call us to be true to who we are and who you have called us to be. Each of us has been given a unique and unrepeatable

Prayer

God of truth,

Our hearts call us to be true to who we are and who you have called us to be. Each of us has been given a unique and unrepeatable calling, to live into the truth of the identity you have given us. Give us strength and fortitude to live into the truth of our making, and to resist drifting through the experiences and encounters you send us. Instead may we live into them and learn by them, using them in ways that help us become the people you want us to be, in and for the world. Amen.

Reflection “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” –Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Infinite hope, You never promised that the road would be easy as we advance the mission you gave us. In fact you assu

Prayer

Infinite hope,

You never promised that the road would be easy as we advance the mission you gave us. In fact you assured us that, if we were on the right course, we would face obstacles in extending your ministry into the world. As we deal with the disappointment that follows our setbacks, grace us with renewed hope from your own heart. Let your infinite hope overcome all the finite disappointments we face, in the course of our mission together and in the course of our lives overall. Amen.

Reflection “Good leaders must first become good servants.” –Robert K. Greenleaf Prayer Servant of all, Servant leadership is still so counter-cultural, because we still live in a world that induces us to be chronically self-center

Prayer

Servant of all,

Servant leadership is still so counter-cultural, because we still live in a world that induces us to be chronically self-centered. Yet we know by experience that our deepest moments of joy are found as we put others first and give our lives in their service. Help us to embrace this truth in general and especially in our approach to leadership. May we cultivate a leadership style that is distinctly others-centered, in such ways that can spread a culture of care and concern aligned with your own heart for humanity. As we strive together for the common good, we pray. Amen.

Reflection “Whenever things sound easy, it turns out there’s one part you didn’t hear.” –Donald E. Westlake Prayer Helper in times of challenge, Many are struggling today with heavy burdens and remarkable challenges that they neve

Prayer

Helper in times of challenge,

Many are struggling today with heavy burdens and remarkable challenges that they never anticipated. We pray for them, as they respond to difficulties at work, changing dynamics in their families and relationships, and in the plans and ambitions they’ve set their hearts upon. For all those who may be disheartened by unexpected failure and setback, we ask you to fill them with grace and the strength of endurance to press through. Amen.

Feast of the Transfiguration

Feast of the Transfiguration

Prayer

Light from light,

There are times when we are surprised by the sudden revelation of a deeper meaning and hidden glory of the world we inhabit. On this Feast of the Transfiguration, we give thanks for the revelation of your glory to your disciples, and we ask for a share in that glory, too, that we might be filled with your light. For the sake of a world trapped in darkness, fill us with your light and may we surprise our neighbors by unveiling your love at work in all things! Amen.

Reflection “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” –Dalai Lama Prayer Kind God, We always have a chance to extend your lovingkindness to others around us. Just as you have been so kind to us, may we also be kind to our

Prayer

Kind God,

We always have a chance to extend your lovingkindness to others around us. Just as you have been so kind to us, may we also be kind to our neighbors, especially those who are vulnerable, marginalized, neglected, or otherwise forgotten. For all those who most deserve to experience kindness today, make us more faithful advocates, willing to reach out to them with a truly kind gesture of love and respect. Today and every day. Amen.

Reflection “But as for you, be strong and do not slack off, for there shall be a reward for what you do.” –2 Chronicles 15:7 Prayer God who sees us, May all who are working diligently take comfort today, knowing that there is a G

Prayer

God who sees us,

May all who are working diligently take comfort today, knowing that there is a God who sees them and empowers them with strength. May those who are tempted to slack off be inspired instead, to put their very best efforts into whatever tasks they are given to do. Whether brain surgery or toilet cleaning, let all that we do glorify you and bring your good help into places of need. Let our work be joy-filled today. Amen.