Daily Devotion
We pray for those who have lost their loved ones and families.
We pray for understanding & compassion in 2015.
We pray for understanding & compassion in 2015.
"For thus says the Lord God: I myself will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. As shepherds seek out their flocks when they are among their scattered sheep, so I will seek out my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places to which they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness."
- Ezekiel 34:11-12
"Tell the truth, have you ever found God in church? I never did. I just found a bunch of folks hoping for [God] to show. Any God I ever felt in church I brought in with me. And I think all the other folks did too. They come to church to share God, not find God."
- Alice Walker
Dear God in heaven, we thank you for the eternal, living, saving word that in Jesus you have spoken and continue to speak to us human beings. Do not allow us to hear it only in a cursory fashion and be too lazy to obey it. Do not let us fall, but remain near each one of us with your comfort, and between each of us and our fellow human beings with your peace. Amen.
Adapted from a prayer by Karl Barth
Alice Walker
- Ezekiel 34:11-12
"Tell the truth, have you ever found God in church? I never did. I just found a bunch of folks hoping for [God] to show. Any God I ever felt in church I brought in with me. And I think all the other folks did too. They come to church to share God, not find God."
- Alice Walker
Dear God in heaven, we thank you for the eternal, living, saving word that in Jesus you have spoken and continue to speak to us human beings. Do not allow us to hear it only in a cursory fashion and be too lazy to obey it. Do not let us fall, but remain near each one of us with your comfort, and between each of us and our fellow human beings with your peace. Amen.
Adapted from a prayer by Karl Barth
Alice Walker
William Hazlitt
William Hazlitt
Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.
- 2 Corinthians 13:11-12
"The love of liberty is the love of others; the love of power is the love of ourselves."
- William Hazlitt
prayer of the day
God in heaven, we pray that we might strive by your grace to grow in commitment and discipline to follow your ways. May the Spirit of God guide and encourage us to steer from the broad and wide path of the world toward the narrow but life-giving way of Christ. Amen.
Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.
- 2 Corinthians 13:11-12
"The love of liberty is the love of others; the love of power is the love of ourselves."
- William Hazlitt
prayer of the day
God in heaven, we pray that we might strive by your grace to grow in commitment and discipline to follow your ways. May the Spirit of God guide and encourage us to steer from the broad and wide path of the world toward the narrow but life-giving way of Christ. Amen.
Sam Levenson
Sam Levenson
Then the Lord raised up judges, who delivered [the Isrealites] out of the power of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen even to their judges; for they lusted after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord; they did not follow their example.
- Judges 2:16-17
voice of the day
"You must learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t possibly live long enough to make them all yourself."
- Sam Levenson
prayer of the day
All-knowing God, we acknowledge that you know us better than we know ourselves. Held by your infinite love and grace, we enjoy the comfort of your presence as we turn to you in prayer. Grant us the wisdom and discipline to make prayer our lifeline. Amen.
Then the Lord raised up judges, who delivered [the Isrealites] out of the power of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen even to their judges; for they lusted after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord; they did not follow their example.
- Judges 2:16-17
voice of the day
"You must learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t possibly live long enough to make them all yourself."
- Sam Levenson
prayer of the day
All-knowing God, we acknowledge that you know us better than we know ourselves. Held by your infinite love and grace, we enjoy the comfort of your presence as we turn to you in prayer. Grant us the wisdom and discipline to make prayer our lifeline. Amen.
Carter Heyward
Carter Heyward
Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says ‘Let Jesus be cursed!’ and no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
- 1 Corinthians 12:3-7
voice of the day
"In the Spirit which draws us into honest engagement with one another, including those who may be very different from us in various ways, God calls us to wake up and learn how to love and respect one another, period."
Carter Heyward
prayer of the day
God of love, your Son challenges us to follow his example to extend love even to our enemies. We thank you for the way Christ reveals to us a new kind of justice, one that is coupled with your divine mercy and based in your love. We pray that you give us the strength to truly love and pray for our enemies. Amen.
Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says ‘Let Jesus be cursed!’ and no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
- 1 Corinthians 12:3-7
voice of the day
"In the Spirit which draws us into honest engagement with one another, including those who may be very different from us in various ways, God calls us to wake up and learn how to love and respect one another, period."
Carter Heyward
prayer of the day
God of love, your Son challenges us to follow his example to extend love even to our enemies. We thank you for the way Christ reveals to us a new kind of justice, one that is coupled with your divine mercy and based in your love. We pray that you give us the strength to truly love and pray for our enemies. Amen.
Clarence Darrow
Clarence Darrow
Through [Christ] you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God. Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.
- 1 Peter 1:21-23
voice of the day
"You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other [human's] freedom. You can only be free if I am free."
- Clarence Darrow
prayer of the day
Almighty God, grant us courage to be humble and self-giving, even when our world rewards ambition and pride. May any power and glory we hold in the world as God's people arise from our unending efforts to serve the poor, the downtrodden, and the needy. For all those oppressed and powerless, may God's compassion reach them through our efforts to work for justice. Amen.
Through [Christ] you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God. Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.
- 1 Peter 1:21-23
voice of the day
"You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other [human's] freedom. You can only be free if I am free."
- Clarence Darrow
prayer of the day
Almighty God, grant us courage to be humble and self-giving, even when our world rewards ambition and pride. May any power and glory we hold in the world as God's people arise from our unending efforts to serve the poor, the downtrodden, and the needy. For all those oppressed and powerless, may God's compassion reach them through our efforts to work for justice. Amen.
Maya Angelou
Reflections Maya Angelou
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff-- they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.
- Psalm 23:4-6
voice of the day
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
- Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
O God, whose care reaches to the uttermost parts of the earth; we humbly beseech you to behold and bless those whom we love, now absent from us. Defend them from all dangers of soul and body; and grant that both they and we, drawing nearer to you, may be bound together by your love in the communion of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
- Adapted from The Book of Common Prayer
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff-- they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.
- Psalm 23:4-6
voice of the day
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
- Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
O God, whose care reaches to the uttermost parts of the earth; we humbly beseech you to behold and bless those whom we love, now absent from us. Defend them from all dangers of soul and body; and grant that both they and we, drawing nearer to you, may be bound together by your love in the communion of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
- Adapted from The Book of Common Prayer
Nelson Mandela
Reflections Reflections Reflections Nelson Mandela
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
- Matthew 28:18-20
voice of the day
"It always seems impossible until it’s done."
-Nelson Mandela
prayer of the day
God of truth, your Son Jesus Christ teaches us that the message of the Gospel that we are called to proclaim is straightforward and sincere. Empower us to trust in the simplicity of your Word as we strive to proclaim it to others. Amen.
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
- Matthew 28:18-20
voice of the day
"It always seems impossible until it’s done."
-Nelson Mandela
prayer of the day
God of truth, your Son Jesus Christ teaches us that the message of the Gospel that we are called to proclaim is straightforward and sincere. Empower us to trust in the simplicity of your Word as we strive to proclaim it to others. Amen.
Nelson Mandela
Harold Wilson
Reflections Harold Wilson
While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he died.
- Acts 7:59-60
voice of the day
"He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery."
- Harold Wilson
prayer of the day
Grow us slowly, persistently, and deeply, Lord to be people who watch without distinction, listen without interruption, and stay put without inclination to flee. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he died.
- Acts 7:59-60
voice of the day
"He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery."
- Harold Wilson
prayer of the day
Grow us slowly, persistently, and deeply, Lord to be people who watch without distinction, listen without interruption, and stay put without inclination to flee. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Eugene V. Debs
Reflections Eugene V. Debs
Indeed the Lord will vindicate [the Lord's] people, have compassion on [the Lord's] servants, when [the Lord] sees that their power is gone, neither bond nor free remaining. Then [the Lord] will say: Where are their gods, the rock in which they took refuge, who ate the fat of their sacrifices, and drank the wine of their libations? Let them rise up and help you, let them be your protection!
- Deuteronomy 32:36-38
voice of the day
"While there is a lower class, I am in it; while there is a criminal element, I am of it; and while there is a soul in prison, I am not free."
- Eugene V. Debs
prayer of the day
God of forgiveness, grant us the grace to trust in your Word and to resist sin for the true freedom and joy that comes from following you. May your Holy Spirit strengthen us as a community of healing and reconciliation. Amen.
Indeed the Lord will vindicate [the Lord's] people, have compassion on [the Lord's] servants, when [the Lord] sees that their power is gone, neither bond nor free remaining. Then [the Lord] will say: Where are their gods, the rock in which they took refuge, who ate the fat of their sacrifices, and drank the wine of their libations? Let them rise up and help you, let them be your protection!
- Deuteronomy 32:36-38
voice of the day
"While there is a lower class, I am in it; while there is a criminal element, I am of it; and while there is a soul in prison, I am not free."
- Eugene V. Debs
prayer of the day
God of forgiveness, grant us the grace to trust in your Word and to resist sin for the true freedom and joy that comes from following you. May your Holy Spirit strengthen us as a community of healing and reconciliation. Amen.
Vincent Harding
Reflections Vincent Harding
But God raised [Christ] up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. For David says concerning him, 'I saw the Lord always before me, for [God] is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will live in hope.
- Acts 2:24-26
voice of the day
"We can’t sit back and celebrate Martin King and ask when will there be another like him. No, no my dear young friends. We must join our voices with that blessed poet June Jordan and demonstrate that 'we are the ones we’ve been waiting for.'"
- Vincent Harding
prayer of the day
God, source of new life, your Son broke the chains of death forever, as he rose powerfully to new and eternal life. Fill us with the joy of the Resurrection, even as we see the false power of death around us every day. Help us to put our trust in your future reign. Amen.
But God raised [Christ] up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. For David says concerning him, 'I saw the Lord always before me, for [God] is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will live in hope.
- Acts 2:24-26
voice of the day
"We can’t sit back and celebrate Martin King and ask when will there be another like him. No, no my dear young friends. We must join our voices with that blessed poet June Jordan and demonstrate that 'we are the ones we’ve been waiting for.'"
- Vincent Harding
prayer of the day
God, source of new life, your Son broke the chains of death forever, as he rose powerfully to new and eternal life. Fill us with the joy of the Resurrection, even as we see the false power of death around us every day. Help us to put our trust in your future reign. Amen.
Angela Y. Davis
Reflections Angela Y. Davis
Thomas said to him, "Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?" Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him."
- John 14:5-7
voice of the day
"Racism cannot be separated from capitalism."
-Angela Y. Davis
prayer of the day
Heavenly God, may the Holy Spirit inspire us to continue to explore the mysteries of our faith. We thank you for drawing us closer to you and ask that you may continue to help us hear your still small voice. Amen.
Thomas said to him, "Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?" Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him."
- John 14:5-7
voice of the day
"Racism cannot be separated from capitalism."
-Angela Y. Davis
prayer of the day
Heavenly God, may the Holy Spirit inspire us to continue to explore the mysteries of our faith. We thank you for drawing us closer to you and ask that you may continue to help us hear your still small voice. Amen.
John Paul II
Reflections John Paul 11
II For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God's approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.
- 1 Peter 2:19-21
voice of the day
"Social justice cannot be attained by violence. Violence kills what it intends to create."
- John Paul II
prayer of the day
God of truth, give us the courage to set our hearts on you in the midst of the chaos and competition of the world. We pray that you help us trust in your unending grace for the betterment of all people. Amen
II For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God's approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.
- 1 Peter 2:19-21
voice of the day
"Social justice cannot be attained by violence. Violence kills what it intends to create."
- John Paul II
prayer of the day
God of truth, give us the courage to set our hearts on you in the midst of the chaos and competition of the world. We pray that you help us trust in your unending grace for the betterment of all people. Amen
Alice Walker
Reflections Alice Walker
Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
- John 20:29-31
voice of the day
"It's so clear that you have to cherish everyone. I think that's what I get from these older black women, that every soul is to be cherished, that every flower is to bloom."
- Alice Walker
prayer of the day
God of life, wherever your Gospel is proclaimed, it calls forth the flourishing of life amid the struggles and labors of our world. Grant us the grace and courage to proclaim your Gospel with our words and deeds. Amen.
Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
- John 20:29-31
voice of the day
"It's so clear that you have to cherish everyone. I think that's what I get from these older black women, that every soul is to be cherished, that every flower is to bloom."
- Alice Walker
prayer of the day
God of life, wherever your Gospel is proclaimed, it calls forth the flourishing of life amid the struggles and labors of our world. Grant us the grace and courage to proclaim your Gospel with our words and deeds. Amen.
Reflections Helen Keller
The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage. I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
- Psalm 16:5-7
voice
"Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose."
- Helen Keller
prayer
God, you call us to walk alongside the poor, all the while reminding us of our own poverty in spirit. We cry out against injustice. Grant us burdened hearts that ache to see the enemies of hunger, violence, and economic injustice scattered. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage. I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
- Psalm 16:5-7
voice
"Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose."
- Helen Keller
prayer
God, you call us to walk alongside the poor, all the while reminding us of our own poverty in spirit. We cry out against injustice. Grant us burdened hearts that ache to see the enemies of hunger, violence, and economic injustice scattered. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Margaret Mead
Reflections Margaret Mead
Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be crushed until he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his teaching.
- Isaiah 42:1-4
voice of the day
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead
prayer of the day
Creator and Sustainer, hold us true to your dream for justice. We look only to you for our sustenance. Empower your people in Christ to remain encouraged in our shared mission to proclaim the Gospel to the world. Amen.
Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be crushed until he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his teaching.
- Isaiah 42:1-4
voice of the day
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead
prayer of the day
Creator and Sustainer, hold us true to your dream for justice. We look only to you for our sustenance. Empower your people in Christ to remain encouraged in our shared mission to proclaim the Gospel to the world. Amen.
Margaret Mead
Susan B. Anthony
Reflections Susan B. Anthony
And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
- Matthew 6:16-18
"Cautious, careful people always casting about to preserve their reputation or social standards never can bring about reform. Those who are really in earnest are willing to be anything or nothing in the world's estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and out, avow their sympathies with despised ideas and their advocates, and bear the consequences."
-Susan B. Anthony
prayer of the day
God of love, we offer our gifts in service of your community of faith in Christ and for the betterment of your people everywhere. help us to embody generosity and a life of service. May God's Spirit of wisdom give us insight and courage to move forward in unity and strength. Amen.
And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
- Matthew 6:16-18
"Cautious, careful people always casting about to preserve their reputation or social standards never can bring about reform. Those who are really in earnest are willing to be anything or nothing in the world's estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and out, avow their sympathies with despised ideas and their advocates, and bear the consequences."
-Susan B. Anthony
prayer of the day
God of love, we offer our gifts in service of your community of faith in Christ and for the betterment of your people everywhere. help us to embody generosity and a life of service. May God's Spirit of wisdom give us insight and courage to move forward in unity and strength. Amen.
Mary Wollstonecraft - Women's Rights
Reflections Mary Wollstonecraft
Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
- Psalm 36:5-9
voice of the day
"It is justice, not charity, that is wanting in the world."
-Mary Wollstonecraft
prayer of the day
God, source of new life, your Son broke the chains of death forever, as he rose powerfully to new and eternal life. Fill us with the joy of Resurrection, and the hope of that same Paschal miracle that made death itself the victim. Amen.
Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
- Psalm 36:5-9
voice of the day
"It is justice, not charity, that is wanting in the world."
-Mary Wollstonecraft
prayer of the day
God, source of new life, your Son broke the chains of death forever, as he rose powerfully to new and eternal life. Fill us with the joy of Resurrection, and the hope of that same Paschal miracle that made death itself the victim. Amen.
Fred McFeely Rogers (March 20, 1928 – February 27, 2003)
Reflections Fred Rogers
But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.
- Matthew 5:39-42
voice of the day
“Love isn't a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.”
-Fred Rogers
prayer of the day
Lord God, when the hungry are fed, the sick healed, the lonely made family, the outcast brought in, the sinner forgiven, the tyrant transformed, and the enemy reconciled, we know your work by the fruit it produces. May our lives bear fruit worthy of your name. Amen.
-Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.
- Matthew 5:39-42
voice of the day
“Love isn't a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.”
-Fred Rogers
prayer of the day
Lord God, when the hungry are fed, the sick healed, the lonely made family, the outcast brought in, the sinner forgiven, the tyrant transformed, and the enemy reconciled, we know your work by the fruit it produces. May our lives bear fruit worthy of your name. Amen.
-Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Michelle Blake
Reflection Michelle Blake
The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David."
- Luke 1:30-32
"One of the essential paradoxes of Advent: that while we wait for God, we are with God all along, that while we need to be reassured of God’s arrival, or the arrival of our homecoming, we are already at home. While we wait, we have to trust, to have faith, but it is God’s grace that gives us that faith."
- Michelle Blake
prayer of the day
God of abundant life, your son Jesus Christ opened for us the door to your heavenly glory. Grant us the faith and courage to be like Mary and to allow your grace to work through us. May the story of the Annunciation assure us of the power of the Holy Spirit, as nothing is impossible with God. Amen.
The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David."
- Luke 1:30-32
"One of the essential paradoxes of Advent: that while we wait for God, we are with God all along, that while we need to be reassured of God’s arrival, or the arrival of our homecoming, we are already at home. While we wait, we have to trust, to have faith, but it is God’s grace that gives us that faith."
- Michelle Blake
prayer of the day
God of abundant life, your son Jesus Christ opened for us the door to your heavenly glory. Grant us the faith and courage to be like Mary and to allow your grace to work through us. May the story of the Annunciation assure us of the power of the Holy Spirit, as nothing is impossible with God. Amen.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Subversive Religious Freedom Advocate
Reflection Dietrich Bonhoeffer
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
- Isaiah 9:6
"A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes, … and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent.”
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
prayer of the day
God of love, may we praise you wholeheartedly for the blessings we experience in our lives and recognize these as part of the fulfillment of your promise. We pray for trust in God's promise of the fullness of life, especially in times we feel lost, directionless, hopeless, and sad. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
- Isaiah 9:6
"A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes, … and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent.”
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
prayer of the day
God of love, may we praise you wholeheartedly for the blessings we experience in our lives and recognize these as part of the fulfillment of your promise. We pray for trust in God's promise of the fullness of life, especially in times we feel lost, directionless, hopeless, and sad. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Frederick Buechner Author of "Telling the Truth"
Reflection Frederick Buechner
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, and many nations shall come and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that [God] may teach us [God's] ways and that we may walk in [God's] paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
- Micah 4:1-2
"For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning — not home, but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last."
- Frederick Buechner
prayer of the day
God of our salvation, we rejoice as we await our Lord, and celebrate the signs of your kingdom unfolding around us. May your Holy Spirit lead us to triumph and heavenly glory, surrounding the throne of your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, and many nations shall come and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that [God] may teach us [God's] ways and that we may walk in [God's] paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
- Micah 4:1-2
"For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning — not home, but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last."
- Frederick Buechner
prayer of the day
God of our salvation, we rejoice as we await our Lord, and celebrate the signs of your kingdom unfolding around us. May your Holy Spirit lead us to triumph and heavenly glory, surrounding the throne of your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Albert Camus was a French-Algerian writer
Reflection Albert Camus
And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
- Acts 2:2-4
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”
- Albert Camus
prayer of the day
Holy Spirit, send your tongues of fire into our midst, just as you did for the early church. May we recognize your movements in our hearts, looking for your gifts in our midst. We pray we use those gifts to glorify you here on earth as you're glorified in heaven.
Amen.
And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
- Acts 2:2-4
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”
- Albert Camus
prayer of the day
Holy Spirit, send your tongues of fire into our midst, just as you did for the early church. May we recognize your movements in our hearts, looking for your gifts in our midst. We pray we use those gifts to glorify you here on earth as you're glorified in heaven.
Amen.
Reflection Mother Jones
When Israel went out from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became God's sanctuary, Israel [God's] dominion. The sea looked and fled; Jordan turned back. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs. Why is it, O sea, that you flee? O Jordan, that you turn back? O mountains, that you skip like rams? O hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turns the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of water.
- Psalm 114:1-8
"My address is like my shoes. It travels with me. I abide where there is a fight against wrong."
- Mother Jones
prayer of the day
God of love, we praise you for all of the people you have raised through the centuries to serve your Church. We ask you to inspire all of us to offer our gifts readily for the betterment of our communities in Christ. Draw our lives closer to your aim for your holy reign. Amen.
When Israel went out from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became God's sanctuary, Israel [God's] dominion. The sea looked and fled; Jordan turned back. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs. Why is it, O sea, that you flee? O Jordan, that you turn back? O mountains, that you skip like rams? O hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turns the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of water.
- Psalm 114:1-8
"My address is like my shoes. It travels with me. I abide where there is a fight against wrong."
- Mother Jones
prayer of the day
God of love, we praise you for all of the people you have raised through the centuries to serve your Church. We ask you to inspire all of us to offer our gifts readily for the betterment of our communities in Christ. Draw our lives closer to your aim for your holy reign. Amen.
Corazon Aquino
Reflection Corazon Aquino
Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, O God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of your deliverance. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you have no delight in sacrifice; if I were to give a burnt offering, you would not be pleased. The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
- Psalm 51:14-17
voice of the day
"Reconciliation should be accompanied by justice, otherwise it will not last. While we all hope for peace it shouldn't be peace at any cost but peace based on principle, on justice."
-Corazon Aquino
prayer of the day
God of justice, we pray that we may always point to the love of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. May we come readily to encounter the Lord in reconciliation and find joy, peace, and conversion of heart through confessing our sins. Amen.
Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, O God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of your deliverance. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you have no delight in sacrifice; if I were to give a burnt offering, you would not be pleased. The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
- Psalm 51:14-17
voice of the day
"Reconciliation should be accompanied by justice, otherwise it will not last. While we all hope for peace it shouldn't be peace at any cost but peace based on principle, on justice."
-Corazon Aquino
prayer of the day
God of justice, we pray that we may always point to the love of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. May we come readily to encounter the Lord in reconciliation and find joy, peace, and conversion of heart through confessing our sins. Amen.
William Law
Reflection William Law
And the free gift is not like the effect of the one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brings justification. If, because of the one man's trespass, death exercised dominion through that one, much more surely will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness exercise dominion in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
- Romans 5:16-17
voice of the day
"All that is sweet, delightful, and amiable in this world, in the serenity of the air, the fineness of seasons, the joy of light, the melody of sounds, the beauty of colors, the fragrancy of smells, the splendor our precious stones, is nothing else but Heaven breaking through the veil of this world, manifesting itself in such a degree and darting forth in such variety so much of its own nature."
- William Law
prayer of the day
God of forgiveness, we come before you seeking your merciful love. May we be aware of our need for forgiveness, as we seek to also forgive others. Help us open our minds to see you in the world. Amen.
And the free gift is not like the effect of the one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brings justification. If, because of the one man's trespass, death exercised dominion through that one, much more surely will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness exercise dominion in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
- Romans 5:16-17
voice of the day
"All that is sweet, delightful, and amiable in this world, in the serenity of the air, the fineness of seasons, the joy of light, the melody of sounds, the beauty of colors, the fragrancy of smells, the splendor our precious stones, is nothing else but Heaven breaking through the veil of this world, manifesting itself in such a degree and darting forth in such variety so much of its own nature."
- William Law
prayer of the day
God of forgiveness, we come before you seeking your merciful love. May we be aware of our need for forgiveness, as we seek to also forgive others. Help us open our minds to see you in the world. Amen.
Albert Schweitzer
Reflection Albert Schweitzer
Do not be a terror to me; You are my refuge in the day of disaster.
- Jeremiah 17:17
voice of the day
A man is truly ethical only when he obeys the compulsion to help all life which he is able to assist, and shrinks from injuring anything that lives.
-Albert Schweitzer
prayer of the day
Dear God, we lift up our elected officials. During this time of difficult and serious decision making, we pray that you put a spirit of civility and reconciliation into the hearts of those called to lead our country. Give them discernment, humility, empathy, and willingness to put the common good above politics. Amen.
Do not be a terror to me; You are my refuge in the day of disaster.
- Jeremiah 17:17
voice of the day
A man is truly ethical only when he obeys the compulsion to help all life which he is able to assist, and shrinks from injuring anything that lives.
-Albert Schweitzer
prayer of the day
Dear God, we lift up our elected officials. During this time of difficult and serious decision making, we pray that you put a spirit of civility and reconciliation into the hearts of those called to lead our country. Give them discernment, humility, empathy, and willingness to put the common good above politics. Amen.
Robert Greenleaf - Center for Servant-Leadership
Reflection Robert Greenleaf
After [Jesus] had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord — and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them."
- John 13:12-16
voice of the day
"A fresh critical look is being taken at the issues of power and authority, and people are beginning to learn, however haltingly, to relate to one another in less coercive and more creatively supporting ways."
- Robert Greenleaf
prayer of the day
God of care and compassion, your Son humbled himself out of love to bring us closer to you. May we strive to follow his example of servant leadership as we try to bring others to a greater knowledge of your love. Grant this to us through your Son, our master and teacher. Amen.
After [Jesus] had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord — and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them."
- John 13:12-16
voice of the day
"A fresh critical look is being taken at the issues of power and authority, and people are beginning to learn, however haltingly, to relate to one another in less coercive and more creatively supporting ways."
- Robert Greenleaf
prayer of the day
God of care and compassion, your Son humbled himself out of love to bring us closer to you. May we strive to follow his example of servant leadership as we try to bring others to a greater knowledge of your love. Grant this to us through your Son, our master and teacher. Amen.
Mahatma Gandhi
Meditation Mahatma Gandhi
Jesus answered, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, 'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
- John 3:5-8
Mahatma Gandhi
"A genuine fast cleanses body, mind and soul. It crucifies the flesh and to that extent sets the soul free. A sincere prayer can work wonders."
prayer of the day
Almighty God, preserve us from losing sight of eternal salvation. Grant that we turn from our earthly accomplishments to give you praise and glory in our daily lives. May the love of God and salvation of Jesus Christ remain our ultimate value. Amen.
Jesus answered, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, 'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
- John 3:5-8
Mahatma Gandhi
"A genuine fast cleanses body, mind and soul. It crucifies the flesh and to that extent sets the soul free. A sincere prayer can work wonders."
prayer of the day
Almighty God, preserve us from losing sight of eternal salvation. Grant that we turn from our earthly accomplishments to give you praise and glory in our daily lives. May the love of God and salvation of Jesus Christ remain our ultimate value. Amen.
Mother Teresa
Meditation Mother Teresa
For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light- for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord.
- Ephesians 5:8-10
voice of the day
“God has identified himself with the hungry, the sick, the naked, the homeless; hunger not only for bread, but for love, for care, to be somebody to someone; nakedness, not for clothing only, but nakedness of that compassion that very few people give to the unknown; homelessness, not only just for a shelter made from stone but for that homelessness that comes from having no one to call your own.”
- Mother Teresa
prayer of the day
God, we know that you never fail us. Even in our suffering and loneliness, help us to hear the whisper of your love. Be our refuge and shelter, and remind us over and over that we are your beloved children. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light- for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord.
- Ephesians 5:8-10
voice of the day
“God has identified himself with the hungry, the sick, the naked, the homeless; hunger not only for bread, but for love, for care, to be somebody to someone; nakedness, not for clothing only, but nakedness of that compassion that very few people give to the unknown; homelessness, not only just for a shelter made from stone but for that homelessness that comes from having no one to call your own.”
- Mother Teresa
prayer of the day
God, we know that you never fail us. Even in our suffering and loneliness, help us to hear the whisper of your love. Be our refuge and shelter, and remind us over and over that we are your beloved children. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Alice Walker
Meditation Alice Walker
So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and they said to him, "Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner." He answered, "I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?"
- John 9:24-27
voice of the day
"Watching you hold your hatred for such a long time I wonder: Isn’t it slippery? Might you not someday drop it on yourself? I wonder: Where does it sleep if ever? And where do you deposit it while you feed your children or sit in the lap of the one who cherishes you? There is no graceful way to carry hatred. While hidden it is everywhere."
-Alice Walker
prayer of the day
God of life and death, beginning and end, stay close to us. May you shine the light of your love into the darkest places of our lives. Help us to understand the ways you give our lives meaning. Draw closer to us. Amen.
Anne Lamott
Meditation Anne Lamott
Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain. Turn my eyes from looking at vanities; give me life in your ways. Confirm to your servant your promise, which is for those who fear you.
- Psalm 119:36-38
-Anne Lamott
"We're here to know God, to love and serve God, and to be blown away by the beauty and miracle of nature. You just have to get rid of so much baggage to be light enough to dance, to sing, to play. You don't have time to carry grudges; you don't have time to cling to the need to be right."
prayer of the day
Lord, you call us out of captivity into the freedom of your beloved community. As we pass through the wilderness spaces of our lives, grant us ears to hear you, eyes to see you, and hearts to ache for you, that we might not turn away from the brothers and sisters who help us remember who we are. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain. Turn my eyes from looking at vanities; give me life in your ways. Confirm to your servant your promise, which is for those who fear you.
- Psalm 119:36-38
-Anne Lamott
"We're here to know God, to love and serve God, and to be blown away by the beauty and miracle of nature. You just have to get rid of so much baggage to be light enough to dance, to sing, to play. You don't have time to carry grudges; you don't have time to cling to the need to be right."
prayer of the day
Lord, you call us out of captivity into the freedom of your beloved community. As we pass through the wilderness spaces of our lives, grant us ears to hear you, eyes to see you, and hearts to ache for you, that we might not turn away from the brothers and sisters who help us remember who we are. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Corita Kent
Meditation Corita Kent
"We are fools for the sake of Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we are hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clothed and beaten and homeless, and we grow weary from the work of our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we speak kindly."
- 1 Corinthians 4:10-12
"One of the things Jesus did was to step aside from the organized religion of his time because it had become corrupt and bogged down with rules. Rules became more important than feeding the hungry."
- Corita Kent
God, we pray for a peaceful resolution to the miners' demonstrations in South Africa. Lord, the violence gives us uneasy flashbacks to apartheid and states of emergency. Give the leaders the courage to condemn violence and engage in negotiations that lift up dignity and safety for all. Amen
"We are fools for the sake of Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we are hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clothed and beaten and homeless, and we grow weary from the work of our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we speak kindly."
- 1 Corinthians 4:10-12
"One of the things Jesus did was to step aside from the organized religion of his time because it had become corrupt and bogged down with rules. Rules became more important than feeding the hungry."
- Corita Kent
God, we pray for a peaceful resolution to the miners' demonstrations in South Africa. Lord, the violence gives us uneasy flashbacks to apartheid and states of emergency. Give the leaders the courage to condemn violence and engage in negotiations that lift up dignity and safety for all. Amen
Richard Rohr Franciscan friar
Meditation Richard Rohr Franciscan friar
"Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Surely we do not need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you or from you, do we? You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all; and you show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts."
- 2 Corinthians 3:1-3
“It’s a gift to joyfully recognize and accept our own smallness and ordinariness. Then you are free with nothing to live up to, nothing to prove, and nothing to protect. Such freedom is my best description of Christian maturity, because once you know that your 'I' is great and one with God, you can ironically be quite content with a small and ordinary 'I.' No grandstanding is necessary. Any question of your own importance or dignity has already been resolved once and for all and forever.”
- Richard Rohr
Sustaining God, you are the source of all life. Thank you for the gift of spring, the gift of new life. Help me to appreciate your beauty and your majesty today. Amen.
"Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Surely we do not need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you or from you, do we? You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all; and you show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts."
- 2 Corinthians 3:1-3
“It’s a gift to joyfully recognize and accept our own smallness and ordinariness. Then you are free with nothing to live up to, nothing to prove, and nothing to protect. Such freedom is my best description of Christian maturity, because once you know that your 'I' is great and one with God, you can ironically be quite content with a small and ordinary 'I.' No grandstanding is necessary. Any question of your own importance or dignity has already been resolved once and for all and forever.”
- Richard Rohr
Sustaining God, you are the source of all life. Thank you for the gift of spring, the gift of new life. Help me to appreciate your beauty and your majesty today. Amen.
Kathleen Norris - New York Times bestseller: "The Cloister Walk"
Meditation Kathleen Norris
"As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share."
- 1 Timothy 6:17-18
“We shortchange ourselves by regarding religious faith as a matter of intellectual assent. This is a modern aberration; the traditional Christian view is far more holistic, regarding faith as a whole-body experience. Sometimes it is, as W.H. Auden described it, 'a matter of choosing what is difficult all one's days as if it were easy.”
- Kathleen Norris
God, the rocket attacks in Syria remind us of our brothers and sisters there who live everyday in fear. Comfort the families of victims and give them peace. Bring peace to the whole country. Change the hearts of those in power. Give wisdom and discernment to the international community as they think of ways to peacefully intervene. Amen.
"As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share."
- 1 Timothy 6:17-18
“We shortchange ourselves by regarding religious faith as a matter of intellectual assent. This is a modern aberration; the traditional Christian view is far more holistic, regarding faith as a whole-body experience. Sometimes it is, as W.H. Auden described it, 'a matter of choosing what is difficult all one's days as if it were easy.”
- Kathleen Norris
God, the rocket attacks in Syria remind us of our brothers and sisters there who live everyday in fear. Comfort the families of victims and give them peace. Bring peace to the whole country. Change the hearts of those in power. Give wisdom and discernment to the international community as they think of ways to peacefully intervene. Amen.
Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D.
Meditation Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D.
"Isn’t the cup of blessing that we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Isn’t the loaf of bread that we break a sharing in the body of Christ? Since there is one loaf of bread, we who are many are one body, because we all share the one loaf of bread."
- 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (Common English Bible)
“Helping, fixing, and serving represent three different ways of seeing life. When you help, you see life as weak. When you fix, you see life as broken. When you serve, you see life as whole. Fixing and helping may be the work of the ego, and service the work of the soul.”
- Rachel Naomi Remen from,
A Time for Listening and Caring
Holy God, source and sovereign, you put all power and authority into the hands of Christ -- Christ, who washes our feet in humble service. Teach us to love one another as Christ has loved us, so that everyone will know that we are his disciples; through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.
From PC(USA)'s liturgical resources
"Isn’t the cup of blessing that we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Isn’t the loaf of bread that we break a sharing in the body of Christ? Since there is one loaf of bread, we who are many are one body, because we all share the one loaf of bread."
- 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (Common English Bible)
“Helping, fixing, and serving represent three different ways of seeing life. When you help, you see life as weak. When you fix, you see life as broken. When you serve, you see life as whole. Fixing and helping may be the work of the ego, and service the work of the soul.”
- Rachel Naomi Remen from,
A Time for Listening and Caring
Holy God, source and sovereign, you put all power and authority into the hands of Christ -- Christ, who washes our feet in humble service. Teach us to love one another as Christ has loved us, so that everyone will know that we are his disciples; through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.
From PC(USA)'s liturgical resources
Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama
Scriptural Prayer Mother Teresa of Calcutta
"'The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!'"
- Matthew 6:22-23
"Like splendid palm branches, we are strewn in the Lord’s path."
- Latin Antiphon
Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our fellow human beings throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Through our hands, grant them this day their daily bread; and by our understanding love, give them peace and joy. Amen
Daily prayer of the co-workers of Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Mother Teresa of Calcutta
"'The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!'"
- Matthew 6:22-23
"Like splendid palm branches, we are strewn in the Lord’s path."
- Latin Antiphon
Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our fellow human beings throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Through our hands, grant them this day their daily bread; and by our understanding love, give them peace and joy. Amen
Daily prayer of the co-workers of Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Archbishop Oscar Romero
Scriptural Prayer Archbishop Oscar Romero
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace."
- James 3:17-18
“A church that doesn’t provoke any crisis, a gospel that doesn’t unsettle, a word of God that doesn’t get under anyone’s skin, a word of God that doesn’t touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed – what gospel is that?”
- Archbishop Oscar Romero
God, release us from everything within our minds that would keep us bound to limitation, suffering, forgetfulness, and fear. We want to be free... Please direct out thoughts and guide our visions. Help us to see in all people only what you would have us see, and help us to see in ourselves only what you would have us see. Show us the way to healing and to peace. Amen.
Adapted from Diane Berke's "Prayer Process for Healing Relationships"
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace."
- James 3:17-18
“A church that doesn’t provoke any crisis, a gospel that doesn’t unsettle, a word of God that doesn’t get under anyone’s skin, a word of God that doesn’t touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed – what gospel is that?”
- Archbishop Oscar Romero
God, release us from everything within our minds that would keep us bound to limitation, suffering, forgetfulness, and fear. We want to be free... Please direct out thoughts and guide our visions. Help us to see in all people only what you would have us see, and help us to see in ourselves only what you would have us see. Show us the way to healing and to peace. Amen.
Adapted from Diane Berke's "Prayer Process for Healing Relationships"
Albert Eintsein
Scriptural Prayer Albert Eintsein
There is a vanity that takes place on earth, that there are righteous people who are treated according to the conduct of the wicked, and there are wicked people who are treated according to the conduct of the righteous.
- Ecclesiastes 8:14
voice of the day
In matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and small problems, for issues concerning the treatment of people are all the same.
-Albert Eintsein
prayer of the day
God, do not let us forget the large problems as we work through the small problems. And may we also never overlook the people in front of us as we advocate for systemic justice. Give us, O Lord, a spirit of love and patience wherever there are issues concerning the treatment of people. Amen
There is a vanity that takes place on earth, that there are righteous people who are treated according to the conduct of the wicked, and there are wicked people who are treated according to the conduct of the righteous.
- Ecclesiastes 8:14
voice of the day
In matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and small problems, for issues concerning the treatment of people are all the same.
-Albert Eintsein
prayer of the day
God, do not let us forget the large problems as we work through the small problems. And may we also never overlook the people in front of us as we advocate for systemic justice. Give us, O Lord, a spirit of love and patience wherever there are issues concerning the treatment of people. Amen
― M. Scott Peck, The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love
Scriptural Prayer M. Scott Peck
“…know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus, the Anointed One.”
- Philippians 4:7
“Love is the will to extend one's self for the purpose of nurturing one's own or another's spiritual growth... Love is as love does. Love is an act of will -- namely, both an intention and an action. Will also implies choice. We do not have to love. We choose to love.”
- M. Scott Peck (The Road Less Traveled)
God be in my pain and in my enduring. God be in my plans and in my deciding. God be in my mind and in my growing. God be in my limbs and in my leisure. Amen.
From Coventry Cathedral (2 of 2)
“…know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus, the Anointed One.”
- Philippians 4:7
“Love is the will to extend one's self for the purpose of nurturing one's own or another's spiritual growth... Love is as love does. Love is an act of will -- namely, both an intention and an action. Will also implies choice. We do not have to love. We choose to love.”
- M. Scott Peck (The Road Less Traveled)
God be in my pain and in my enduring. God be in my plans and in my deciding. God be in my mind and in my growing. God be in my limbs and in my leisure. Amen.
From Coventry Cathedral (2 of 2)
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Scriptural Prayer If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in [God's] word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning.
- Psalm 130:3-6
voice of the day
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'"
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
prayer of the day
God of mercy, preserve us from the depths of despair and grant us the courage to always return to you. We praise you for your profound love that is ever mindful to seek out all who are lost, alone, directionless, and need help. We ask you to send us your Spirit to help us share your love as we praise you for allowing us to take part in bringing delight and joy into the hearts of those who receive it. Amen.
Andrew Murray
Scriptural Prayer Andrew Murray
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
- Psalm 32:4-6
voice of the day
"Prayer is reaching out after the unseen; fasting is letting go of all that is seen and temporal. Fasting helps express, deepen, confirm the resolution that we are ready to sacrifice anything, even ourselves to attain what we seek for the kingdom of God."
- Andrew Murray
prayer of the day
God of mercy, you have given us life, and tilled our soil day by day to nurture us. You grant us innumerable opportunities to do good with the graces we have received, and bear fruit. Please forgive the ways we have held back this love and care from others. Foster repentance in our hearts, growth in our faith, and love for the Lord. Amen.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
- Psalm 32:4-6
voice of the day
"Prayer is reaching out after the unseen; fasting is letting go of all that is seen and temporal. Fasting helps express, deepen, confirm the resolution that we are ready to sacrifice anything, even ourselves to attain what we seek for the kingdom of God."
- Andrew Murray
prayer of the day
God of mercy, you have given us life, and tilled our soil day by day to nurture us. You grant us innumerable opportunities to do good with the graces we have received, and bear fruit. Please forgive the ways we have held back this love and care from others. Foster repentance in our hearts, growth in our faith, and love for the Lord. Amen.
Carter Heyward
Scriptural Prayer Carter Heyward
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.
- John 15:12-15
voice of the day
"In the Spirit which draws us into honest engagement with one another, including those who may be very different from us in various ways, God calls us to wake up and learn how to love and respect one another, period."
- Carter Heyward
prayer of the day
Lord God, King of the Universe, we lift up our hands to you and ask you to help us bear the burden of injustice. Grant us a discerning spirit to follow your path to justice. Equip us with your patience and your grace so that as we walk with those who suffer, we might strengthen and uphold one another. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.
- John 15:12-15
voice of the day
"In the Spirit which draws us into honest engagement with one another, including those who may be very different from us in various ways, God calls us to wake up and learn how to love and respect one another, period."
- Carter Heyward
prayer of the day
Lord God, King of the Universe, we lift up our hands to you and ask you to help us bear the burden of injustice. Grant us a discerning spirit to follow your path to justice. Equip us with your patience and your grace so that as we walk with those who suffer, we might strengthen and uphold one another. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Marian Anderson
Scriptural Prayer of the Day: Marian Anderson
According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11
voice of the day
"No matter how big a nation is, it is no stronger that its weakest people, and as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold him down, so it means you cannot soar as you might otherwise."
-Marian Anderson
prayer of the day
Lord God, extend our faith so that even when we fail to see the fruit of our planted seeds, we may have the assurance that every inch of soil overturned will lead to a harvest someday. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11
voice of the day
"No matter how big a nation is, it is no stronger that its weakest people, and as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold him down, so it means you cannot soar as you might otherwise."
-Marian Anderson
prayer of the day
Lord God, extend our faith so that even when we fail to see the fruit of our planted seeds, we may have the assurance that every inch of soil overturned will lead to a harvest someday. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Muhammad Ali
Prayer of the Day: Muhammad Ali
Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am. If you remove the yoke from among you, the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil, if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday. The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.
- Isaiah 58:9-11
"Prejudice comes from being in the dark; sunlight disinfects it."
- Muhammad Ali
prayer of the day
We in the midst of out-of-control violence, we in great faith, we in deep vocational call, we in our several anxieties. We — alongside you — in the trembling. This day we pray for freedom to move beyond fear to caring, beyond self to neighbor, beyond protection to growth. That we may be a sign of the steadfastness, that anxiety may not win the day. You are the one who said, “Do not be anxious.” And now we submit to you. Amen.
- Adapted from "God's Gift in the Midst of Violence" by Walter Brueggemann
Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am. If you remove the yoke from among you, the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil, if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday. The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.
- Isaiah 58:9-11
"Prejudice comes from being in the dark; sunlight disinfects it."
- Muhammad Ali
prayer of the day
We in the midst of out-of-control violence, we in great faith, we in deep vocational call, we in our several anxieties. We — alongside you — in the trembling. This day we pray for freedom to move beyond fear to caring, beyond self to neighbor, beyond protection to growth. That we may be a sign of the steadfastness, that anxiety may not win the day. You are the one who said, “Do not be anxious.” And now we submit to you. Amen.
- Adapted from "God's Gift in the Midst of Violence" by Walter Brueggemann
Audre Lorde
Prayer of the Day: Audre Lorde
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.
- 1 John 4:7-8
voice of the day
"Each time you love, love as deeply as if it were forever."
-Audre Lorde
prayer of the day
Sustaining God of creation, redeem us in your overflowing love. On this day especially, we recognize that your love is the only love that we need. May we know that your love is a love truer than any love we have ever known. Amen.
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.
- 1 John 4:7-8
voice of the day
"Each time you love, love as deeply as if it were forever."
-Audre Lorde
prayer of the day
Sustaining God of creation, redeem us in your overflowing love. On this day especially, we recognize that your love is the only love that we need. May we know that your love is a love truer than any love we have ever known. Amen.
Harriet Tubman
Prayer of the Day: Harriet Tubman
Hear what the Lord says: Rise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice. Hear, you mountains, the controversy of the Lord, and you enduring foundations of the earth; for the Lord has a controversy with [God's] people, and [the Lord] will contend with Israel. "O my people, what have I done to you? In what have I wearied you? Answer me!"
- Micah 6:1-3
voice of the day
"I had seen their tears and sighs, and I had heard their groans, and I would give every drop of blood in my veins to free them."
- Harriet Tubman
prayer of the day
God, hear our call of pain. Make your spirit known to us. May we, as your people, remember to realign our lives to your dream for the world. Offer us the sustenance of your love that gives us the strength to continue. Amen.
Hear what the Lord says: Rise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice. Hear, you mountains, the controversy of the Lord, and you enduring foundations of the earth; for the Lord has a controversy with [God's] people, and [the Lord] will contend with Israel. "O my people, what have I done to you? In what have I wearied you? Answer me!"
- Micah 6:1-3
voice of the day
"I had seen their tears and sighs, and I had heard their groans, and I would give every drop of blood in my veins to free them."
- Harriet Tubman
prayer of the day
God, hear our call of pain. Make your spirit known to us. May we, as your people, remember to realign our lives to your dream for the world. Offer us the sustenance of your love that gives us the strength to continue. Amen.
Martin Luther King's Last Speech: "I've Been To The Mountaintop"
Prayer of the Day: Martin Luther King, Jr.
Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, "Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
- Luke 2:27-32
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
prayer of the day
Lord, when we weary of the journey, strengthen us by your Spirit to imagine new heavens and a new earth. May your light shine into the darkest parts of our lives and the darkest parts of our days. We ask that you make your presence known to us even in those darkest of times. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
John Lennon
Prayer of the Day: John Lennon
"I pray that, according to the riches of [God's'] glory, [God] may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through [God's] Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love."
- Ephesians 3:16-17
"If everyone demanded peace instead of another television set, then there’d be peace."
- John Lennon
O Lord, you alone are God. You are good, deserving of all my praise. Help me to surrender my life to you. Amen.
"I pray that, according to the riches of [God's'] glory, [God] may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through [God's] Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love."
- Ephesians 3:16-17
"If everyone demanded peace instead of another television set, then there’d be peace."
- John Lennon
O Lord, you alone are God. You are good, deserving of all my praise. Help me to surrender my life to you. Amen.
W.E.B. Du Bois
Prayer of the Day: W.E.B. Du Bois
Thus says the Lord: For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment; because they sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals — they who trample the head of the poor into the dust of the earth, and push the afflicted out of the way.
- Amos 2:6-7
"The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression."
- W.E.B. Du Bois
prayer
Sustainer, may the Holy Spirit ignite within our hearts the compassion that Jesus felt when he saw the vast crowds. We pray for all who seek to follow Jesus Christ in serving and loving those around us. We pray for all who are searching for meaning in life, may the Holy Spirit touch them. Amen.
Thus says the Lord: For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment; because they sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals — they who trample the head of the poor into the dust of the earth, and push the afflicted out of the way.
- Amos 2:6-7
"The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression."
- W.E.B. Du Bois
prayer
Sustainer, may the Holy Spirit ignite within our hearts the compassion that Jesus felt when he saw the vast crowds. We pray for all who seek to follow Jesus Christ in serving and loving those around us. We pray for all who are searching for meaning in life, may the Holy Spirit touch them. Amen.
Bill Cosby
Prayer of the Day: Bill Cosby
Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be boastful and false to the truth.
- James 3:13-14
voice of the day
"The past is a ghost, the future a dream. All we ever have is now."
-Bill Cosby
prayer of the day
Holy Spirit, may you protect and strengthen those who suffer the threat of persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. May the presence of God be with them in mind, body, and spirit. Increase our faith, so that we may work and pray more fervently to turn towards you. Amen.
Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be boastful and false to the truth.
- James 3:13-14
voice of the day
"The past is a ghost, the future a dream. All we ever have is now."
-Bill Cosby
prayer of the day
Holy Spirit, may you protect and strengthen those who suffer the threat of persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. May the presence of God be with them in mind, body, and spirit. Increase our faith, so that we may work and pray more fervently to turn towards you. Amen.
Henry Bugbee from The Inward Morning
Prayer of the Day: Henry Bugbee
"David spoke to the Lord the words of this song on the day when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said: 'The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence.'"
- 2 Samuel 22:1-3
“In abandoning the world we are lost; we are lost again and again. We may speak poignantly of the experience of being lost; but we cannot be clear about ourselves and our situation in so far as our thinking is dominated by that experience. Disillusionment with the world knows nothing of the sacrament of co-existence. It can find no place for the sacramental act. It can conjure out of itself no philosophy of action, for its ultimate implication is inaction.”
- Henry Bugbee, from The Inward Morning
O Lord God, when you give to your servants to endeavor any great matter, grant us also to know that it is not the beginning, but continuing of the same to the end, until it be thoroughly finished which yieldeth the true glory.
Attributed to Sir Francis Drake
"David spoke to the Lord the words of this song on the day when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said: 'The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence.'"
- 2 Samuel 22:1-3
“In abandoning the world we are lost; we are lost again and again. We may speak poignantly of the experience of being lost; but we cannot be clear about ourselves and our situation in so far as our thinking is dominated by that experience. Disillusionment with the world knows nothing of the sacrament of co-existence. It can find no place for the sacramental act. It can conjure out of itself no philosophy of action, for its ultimate implication is inaction.”
- Henry Bugbee, from The Inward Morning
O Lord God, when you give to your servants to endeavor any great matter, grant us also to know that it is not the beginning, but continuing of the same to the end, until it be thoroughly finished which yieldeth the true glory.
Attributed to Sir Francis Drake
Archbishop Rowan Williams
Prayer of the Day: Archbishop Rowan Williams
"For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like."
- James 1:23-24
“Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.”
- Archbishop Rowan Williams
God, we lift up to you today all the places where there is unrest: Syria, South Sudan, Mali, Somalia, Pakistan, and others. Infiltrate the hearts and minds of the people in these places with your peace. May we all seek this peace that calms the storms in our own hearts and minds. Amen.
"For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like."
- James 1:23-24
“Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.”
- Archbishop Rowan Williams
God, we lift up to you today all the places where there is unrest: Syria, South Sudan, Mali, Somalia, Pakistan, and others. Infiltrate the hearts and minds of the people in these places with your peace. May we all seek this peace that calms the storms in our own hearts and minds. Amen.
Barbara Brown Taylor
Prayer of the Day: Barbara Brown Taylor
"The Lord works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed. [God] made known [God’s] ways to Moses, [God’s] acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love."
- Psalm 103:6-8
“According to the Talmud, every blade of grass has its own angel bending over it, whispering, 'Grow, grow.'”
- Barbara Brown Taylor
from An Altar in the World
Praised are You, Adonai our God, Guide of the Universe, who creates innumerable living beings and their needs, for all the things You have created to sustain every living being. Praised are You, the life of the Universe.
A Jewish Blessing
"The Lord works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed. [God] made known [God’s] ways to Moses, [God’s] acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love."
- Psalm 103:6-8
“According to the Talmud, every blade of grass has its own angel bending over it, whispering, 'Grow, grow.'”
- Barbara Brown Taylor
from An Altar in the World
Praised are You, Adonai our God, Guide of the Universe, who creates innumerable living beings and their needs, for all the things You have created to sustain every living being. Praised are You, the life of the Universe.
A Jewish Blessing
Kahlil Gibran
Prayer of the Day: Kahlil Gibran
"Those who ignore instruction despise themselves, but those who heed admonition gain understanding. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility goes before honor."
- Proverbs 15:32-33
"Work is love made visible. And if you cannot work with love but only with distaste, it is better that you should leave your work and sit at the gate of the temple and take alms of those who work with joy."
- Kahlil Gibran
God, grant me humility, that I might have wisdom and that I might be able to seek you more and more. Amen.
Kahlil Gibran
"Those who ignore instruction despise themselves, but those who heed admonition gain understanding. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility goes before honor."
- Proverbs 15:32-33
"Work is love made visible. And if you cannot work with love but only with distaste, it is better that you should leave your work and sit at the gate of the temple and take alms of those who work with joy."
- Kahlil Gibran
God, grant me humility, that I might have wisdom and that I might be able to seek you more and more. Amen.
Kahlil Gibran
Madeleine L'Engle
Prayer of the Day: Madeleine L'Engle
Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice,
to undo the thongs of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover them,
and not to hide yourself from your own kin?
Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up quickly;
your vindicator shall go before you,
the glory of the LORD shall be your rearguard.
Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer;
you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am.
- Isaiah 58:6-9
If you're going to care about the fall of the sparrow you can't pick and choose who's going to be the sparrow. It's everybody.
- Madeleine L'Engle
Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight,
and give your angels charge over those who sleep.
Tend your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest your weary ones.
Bless your dying ones.
Soothe your suffering ones.
Pity your afflicted ones.
Shield your joyous ones.
And for all your love's sake. Amen.
A prayer by Saint Augustine of Hippo
Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice,
to undo the thongs of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover them,
and not to hide yourself from your own kin?
Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up quickly;
your vindicator shall go before you,
the glory of the LORD shall be your rearguard.
Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer;
you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am.
- Isaiah 58:6-9
If you're going to care about the fall of the sparrow you can't pick and choose who's going to be the sparrow. It's everybody.
- Madeleine L'Engle
Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight,
and give your angels charge over those who sleep.
Tend your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest your weary ones.
Bless your dying ones.
Soothe your suffering ones.
Pity your afflicted ones.
Shield your joyous ones.
And for all your love's sake. Amen.
A prayer by Saint Augustine of Hippo
Howard Zinn
Prayer of the Day: Howard Zinn
"Jesus put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.’"
- Matthew 13:31-32
"Truth has a power of its own...
A poem can inspire a movement.
A pamphlet can spark a revolution. Civil disobedience can arouse people and provoke us to think."
- Howard Zinn
Today, spend a few minutes resting in silence with God. Turn the volume down, the electronics off, or find a space where you can be free of distractions to rest, wait, listen.
"Jesus put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.’"
- Matthew 13:31-32
"Truth has a power of its own...
A poem can inspire a movement.
A pamphlet can spark a revolution. Civil disobedience can arouse people and provoke us to think."
- Howard Zinn
Today, spend a few minutes resting in silence with God. Turn the volume down, the electronics off, or find a space where you can be free of distractions to rest, wait, listen.
Maya Angelou
Prayer of the Day: Maya Angelou
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
- Psalm 27:1
"Leaving behind nights of terror and fear, I rise. Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear, I rise. Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise. I rise. I rise."
-Maya Angelou
prayer
God of the oppressed, we pray for those of us who are oppressed and those of us who need to recognize the oppression around us. We pray that your justice is done here on earth, that your kingdom comes here just as it is in heaven. Amen
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
- Psalm 27:1
"Leaving behind nights of terror and fear, I rise. Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear, I rise. Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise. I rise. I rise."
-Maya Angelou
prayer
God of the oppressed, we pray for those of us who are oppressed and those of us who need to recognize the oppression around us. We pray that your justice is done here on earth, that your kingdom comes here just as it is in heaven. Amen
Eleanor Roosevelt
Prayer of the Day: Eleanor Roosevelt
O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into [God's] presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to [God] with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
- Psalm 95:1-3
voice
The trouble is that not enough people have come together with the firm determination to live the things which they say they believe.
-Eleanor Roosevelt
prayer of the day
God of justice, grant us the wisdom and the courage to speak up for the truth and to do good, trusting in your Son to show the way. May we continue to honor the memory of martyrs of the faith, keeping in mind that many of them continue to live and die for faith this day. We pray for courage to speak up for injustice, trusting in God's goodness and truth to prevail. Amen.
O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into [God's] presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to [God] with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
- Psalm 95:1-3
voice
The trouble is that not enough people have come together with the firm determination to live the things which they say they believe.
-Eleanor Roosevelt
prayer of the day
God of justice, grant us the wisdom and the courage to speak up for the truth and to do good, trusting in your Son to show the way. May we continue to honor the memory of martyrs of the faith, keeping in mind that many of them continue to live and die for faith this day. We pray for courage to speak up for injustice, trusting in God's goodness and truth to prevail. Amen.
Prayer of the Day: Zen Chant
Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.
- Hebrews 2:17-18
voice of the day
"May suffering ones be suffering free and the fear-struck fearless be. May the grieving shed all grief — and the sick find health relief."
-Zen chant
prayer of the day
God of love, we especially pray for those who suffer physically, mentally, or spiritually. May we welcome and meet the needs of those who come knocking at our door and may we find an open door when it is us who does the knocking. May we recognize your unending love for us and trust in your abundant grace to meet our needs beyond our expectations, each time we turn to you. Amen.
Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.
- Hebrews 2:17-18
voice of the day
"May suffering ones be suffering free and the fear-struck fearless be. May the grieving shed all grief — and the sick find health relief."
-Zen chant
prayer of the day
God of love, we especially pray for those who suffer physically, mentally, or spiritually. May we welcome and meet the needs of those who come knocking at our door and may we find an open door when it is us who does the knocking. May we recognize your unending love for us and trust in your abundant grace to meet our needs beyond our expectations, each time we turn to you. Amen.
Arthur Wallis
Prayer of the Day: Arthur Wallis
"Why do we fast, but you do not see? Why humble ourselves, but you do not notice?" Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day, and oppress all your workers. Look, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to strike with a wicked fist. Such fasting as you do today will not make your voice heard on high.
- Isaiah 58:3-4
"When exercised with a pure heart and a right motive, fasting may provide us with a key to unlock doors where other keys have failed; a window opening up new horizons in the unseen world; a spiritual weapon of God's provision, mighty, to the pulling down of strongholds."
-Arthur Wallis Join Christians across the country who are choosing to fast every Wednesday in Lent, to open our hearts and our nation to the undocumented immigrants among us, whom Christ calls us to welcome. Read Jim Wallis' reflection on fasting here.
prayer of the day
God of all faithfulness, your Son Jesus Christ reminds us that your invitation to a loving and eternal relationship is the most important truth of our faith. May all that we say and do in your Son's name reflect this essential truth. Amen.
"Why do we fast, but you do not see? Why humble ourselves, but you do not notice?" Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day, and oppress all your workers. Look, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to strike with a wicked fist. Such fasting as you do today will not make your voice heard on high.
- Isaiah 58:3-4
"When exercised with a pure heart and a right motive, fasting may provide us with a key to unlock doors where other keys have failed; a window opening up new horizons in the unseen world; a spiritual weapon of God's provision, mighty, to the pulling down of strongholds."
-Arthur Wallis Join Christians across the country who are choosing to fast every Wednesday in Lent, to open our hearts and our nation to the undocumented immigrants among us, whom Christ calls us to welcome. Read Jim Wallis' reflection on fasting here.
prayer of the day
God of all faithfulness, your Son Jesus Christ reminds us that your invitation to a loving and eternal relationship is the most important truth of our faith. May all that we say and do in your Son's name reflect this essential truth. Amen.
Emily Dickenson
Prayer of the Day: Emily Dickenson
My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
- Psalm 84:2-3
"I never saw a moor, I never saw the sea; Yet know I how the heather looks, and what a wave must be. I never spoke with God, nor visited in heaven; Yet certain am I of the spot as if the chart were given."
- Emily Dickenson
prayer of the day
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy of Ordinary Radicals
My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
- Psalm 84:2-3
"I never saw a moor, I never saw the sea; Yet know I how the heather looks, and what a wave must be. I never spoke with God, nor visited in heaven; Yet certain am I of the spot as if the chart were given."
- Emily Dickenson
prayer of the day
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy of Ordinary Radicals
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Prayer of the Day: Martin Luther King, Jr.
O Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill? Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right, and speak the truth from their heart; who do not slander with their tongue, and do no evil to their friends, nor take up a reproach against their neighbors.
- Psalm 15:1-3
"He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
prayer
God of justice, we know that we often fail to actively protest the injustices around us. Help us to do what is right. Help us to speak truth. And help us not passively accept the evil we see in daily life. Lord, we pray that we might one day abide in your holy tent. Amen.
O Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill? Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right, and speak the truth from their heart; who do not slander with their tongue, and do no evil to their friends, nor take up a reproach against their neighbors.
- Psalm 15:1-3
"He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
prayer
God of justice, we know that we often fail to actively protest the injustices around us. Help us to do what is right. Help us to speak truth. And help us not passively accept the evil we see in daily life. Lord, we pray that we might one day abide in your holy tent. Amen.
Dalai Lama & Mother Teresa
Prayer of the Day: Mother Teresa
"Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
- Matthew 5:11-12
"There is a light in this world, a healing spirit more powerful than any darkness may encounter. We sometimes lose sight of this force when there is suffering, too much pain. Then suddenly the spirit will emerge through the lives of ordinary people who hear a call and answer in extraordinary ways."
- Mother Teresa
prayer
God, break into our ordinary lives. Help us see your light piercing the darkness around us. As we come to you broken and beaten down by the world, let us rejoice in your love and acceptance of us. Amen.
"Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
- Matthew 5:11-12
"There is a light in this world, a healing spirit more powerful than any darkness may encounter. We sometimes lose sight of this force when there is suffering, too much pain. Then suddenly the spirit will emerge through the lives of ordinary people who hear a call and answer in extraordinary ways."
- Mother Teresa
prayer
God, break into our ordinary lives. Help us see your light piercing the darkness around us. As we come to you broken and beaten down by the world, let us rejoice in your love and acceptance of us. Amen.
Wendell Berry
Prayer of the Day: Wendell Berry
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
"Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone."
- Wendell Berry
prayer of the day
Bless the Lord, O my soul, how excellent is your greatness. Lord, wherever we look today, allow us to catch a glimpse of you. And whenever others look at us today, allow them to catch a glimpse of you. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
"Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone."
- Wendell Berry
prayer of the day
Bless the Lord, O my soul, how excellent is your greatness. Lord, wherever we look today, allow us to catch a glimpse of you. And whenever others look at us today, allow them to catch a glimpse of you. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Walter Wangerin Jr.
Prayer of the Day: Walter Wangerin Jr.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
- John 1:1-2
"God is coming! God is coming! All the element we swim in, this existence, Echoes ahead the advent. God is coming! Can’t you feel it?"
- Walter Wangerin Jr.
prayer
All-powerful God, your son Jesus Christ revealed to us the depth of your power as he humbled himself from the cradle to the cross, teaching us the power of love, service, and compassion. May we imitate his example by humbling ourselves to reveal your love to those around us. Amen.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
- John 1:1-2
"God is coming! God is coming! All the element we swim in, this existence, Echoes ahead the advent. God is coming! Can’t you feel it?"
- Walter Wangerin Jr.
prayer
All-powerful God, your son Jesus Christ revealed to us the depth of your power as he humbled himself from the cradle to the cross, teaching us the power of love, service, and compassion. May we imitate his example by humbling ourselves to reveal your love to those around us. Amen.
Paul Farmer
Prayer of the Day: Paul Farmer
So [Zacchaeus] hurried down and was happy to welcome [Jesus]. All who saw it began to grumble and said, "He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner." Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much."
- Luke 19:6-8
The secular world needs to understand that what would "free us from anxiety" is opening up to the poor and otherwise marginalized the chance to flourish. This cannot happen if there is hunger, unfair political arrangements, ongoing assaults on the environment, and no safety net to protect the sick, the unemployed, and the frail.
- Paul Farmer
prayer of the day
Creator of all, we know that you have created all of us in your image. We ask to be reminded of the goodness present in each person on earth, without exception. May we love those whom it is easier to hate and may we more clearly see those who are suffering around us. Amen.
So [Zacchaeus] hurried down and was happy to welcome [Jesus]. All who saw it began to grumble and said, "He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner." Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much."
- Luke 19:6-8
The secular world needs to understand that what would "free us from anxiety" is opening up to the poor and otherwise marginalized the chance to flourish. This cannot happen if there is hunger, unfair political arrangements, ongoing assaults on the environment, and no safety net to protect the sick, the unemployed, and the frail.
- Paul Farmer
prayer of the day
Creator of all, we know that you have created all of us in your image. We ask to be reminded of the goodness present in each person on earth, without exception. May we love those whom it is easier to hate and may we more clearly see those who are suffering around us. Amen.
Anne Lamott
Prayer of the Day: Anne Lamott
Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs to you, which lives alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old.
- Micah 7:14
voice of the day
"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: You don't give up."
- Anne Lamott
prayer of the day
God of wisdom, you sent your son to set us on the path of knowledge, so that it may lead us to share your divine love with those around us. Teach us wisdom to embody that love and shine the light of your son. Amen.
Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs to you, which lives alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old.
- Micah 7:14
voice of the day
"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: You don't give up."
- Anne Lamott
prayer of the day
God of wisdom, you sent your son to set us on the path of knowledge, so that it may lead us to share your divine love with those around us. Teach us wisdom to embody that love and shine the light of your son. Amen.
Frederick Buechner
Prayer of the Day: Frederick Buechner
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, and many nations shall come and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that [God] may teach us [God's] ways and that we may walk in [God's] paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
- Micah 4:1-2
"For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning — not home, but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last."
- Frederick Buechner
prayer of the day
God of our salvation, we rejoice as we await our Lord, and celebrate the signs of your kingdom unfolding around us. May your Holy Spirit lead us to triumph and heavenly glory, surrounding the throne of your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, and many nations shall come and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that [God] may teach us [God's] ways and that we may walk in [God's] paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
- Micah 4:1-2
"For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning — not home, but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last."
- Frederick Buechner
prayer of the day
God of our salvation, we rejoice as we await our Lord, and celebrate the signs of your kingdom unfolding around us. May your Holy Spirit lead us to triumph and heavenly glory, surrounding the throne of your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
J.I. Packer
Prayer of the Day: J.I. Packer
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.
- John 1:14
“The Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk like any other child. The more you think about it, the more staggering it gets. Nothing in fiction is so fantastic as this truth of the Incarnation.”
- J.I. Packer
prayer
May God strengthen us according to the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed. Amen.
- From Take Our Moments and Our Days: Advent through Pentecost
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.
- John 1:14
“The Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk like any other child. The more you think about it, the more staggering it gets. Nothing in fiction is so fantastic as this truth of the Incarnation.”
- J.I. Packer
prayer
May God strengthen us according to the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed. Amen.
- From Take Our Moments and Our Days: Advent through Pentecost
Alice Walker
Prayer of the Day: Alice Walker
The LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; [the LORD] upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked [the LORD] brings to ruin.
- Psalm 146:8-9
"The world has changed: Wake up! Give yourself the gift of a new day. The world has changed: This doesn not mean you were never hurt. The world has changed: Rise! Yes & shine! Resist the siren call of disbelief. The world has changed: Don't let yourself remain asleep to it."
-Alice Walker
prayer of the day
Heavenly Creator, grant us the faith to encounter you in the world around us and the humility to thank and praise you as the source of all the good we do. We pray that our faith might increase, especially in the face of the temptation of pride. Let your light shine through all aspects of our lives. Amen.
The LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; [the LORD] upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked [the LORD] brings to ruin.
- Psalm 146:8-9
"The world has changed: Wake up! Give yourself the gift of a new day. The world has changed: This doesn not mean you were never hurt. The world has changed: Rise! Yes & shine! Resist the siren call of disbelief. The world has changed: Don't let yourself remain asleep to it."
-Alice Walker
prayer of the day
Heavenly Creator, grant us the faith to encounter you in the world around us and the humility to thank and praise you as the source of all the good we do. We pray that our faith might increase, especially in the face of the temptation of pride. Let your light shine through all aspects of our lives. Amen.
Nelson Mandel
Prayer of the Day: Nelson Mandel
Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
- James 5:9-10
"A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of."
- Nelson Mandela
prayer of the day
May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever Christ may send you. May Christ guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May Christ bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy of Ordinary Radicals
Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
- James 5:9-10
"A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of."
- Nelson Mandela
prayer of the day
May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever Christ may send you. May Christ guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May Christ bring you home rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy of Ordinary Radicals
Nelson Mandel
Marianne Williamson (Author of A Return to Love)
Prayer of the Day: Marianne Williamson
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be [God's] glorious name for ever; may [God's] glory fill the whole earth. Amen and Amen.
- Psalm 72:18-19
"Most of us don't lack compassion so much as we avoid it. We resist compassion in the United States with a peculiar hypocrisy, extolling the virtues of volunteerism, for instance, while making volunteerism more of a necessity by diminishing our budgetary commitments to the poor and powerless. ... Our primary response to human suffering appears to be making sure it occurs on the other side of town or the other side of the world."
- Marianne Williamson
prayer
All-powerful God, we acknowledge that your son was born into the darkness and messiness of this world. We offer the messiness and darkness in our own lives to you. We pray that we may reconcile with God, neighbor, and self as we prepare for the coming of our Lord.
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be [God's] glorious name for ever; may [God's] glory fill the whole earth. Amen and Amen.
- Psalm 72:18-19
"Most of us don't lack compassion so much as we avoid it. We resist compassion in the United States with a peculiar hypocrisy, extolling the virtues of volunteerism, for instance, while making volunteerism more of a necessity by diminishing our budgetary commitments to the poor and powerless. ... Our primary response to human suffering appears to be making sure it occurs on the other side of town or the other side of the world."
- Marianne Williamson
prayer
All-powerful God, we acknowledge that your son was born into the darkness and messiness of this world. We offer the messiness and darkness in our own lives to you. We pray that we may reconcile with God, neighbor, and self as we prepare for the coming of our Lord.
Fannie Lou Hamer
Prayer of the Day: Fannie Lou Hamer
When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, "Surely the Lord's anointed is now before the Lord." But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."
- 1 Samuel 16:6-7
"With the people, for the people, by the people, I crack up when I hear it; I say, with the handful, for the handful, by the handful, 'cause that's what really happens."
-Fannie Lou Hamer
prayer
God of love, may all that we do in Jesus's name guide people toward the kingdom of heaven and never away from it. We pray for the Spirit of truth, kindness, gentleness, and wisdom to guide us as we face resistance and challenges. May God's Spirit help us to recognize God's loving invitation to fullness of life. Amen.
When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, "Surely the Lord's anointed is now before the Lord." But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."
- 1 Samuel 16:6-7
"With the people, for the people, by the people, I crack up when I hear it; I say, with the handful, for the handful, by the handful, 'cause that's what really happens."
-Fannie Lou Hamer
prayer
God of love, may all that we do in Jesus's name guide people toward the kingdom of heaven and never away from it. We pray for the Spirit of truth, kindness, gentleness, and wisdom to guide us as we face resistance and challenges. May God's Spirit help us to recognize God's loving invitation to fullness of life. Amen.
Brother Roger of Taizé May 12, 1915 – Taizé, August 16, 2005
Prayer of the Day: Brother Roger of Taizé
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'"
- Matthew 3:1-3
"If, in spite of our inner contradictions, we set out again every morning towards Christ, it is not with any kind of normality in mind. It is with the ultimate goal in view, the goal beyond our hopes, that of becoming conformed to the very likeness of Jesus himself."
-Brother Roger of Taizé
prayer of the day
Lord, when we strive after healing in the world and nourishment for those who hunger, we find you at our side. Whenever we long to see your face, help us not to avoid the corners of our communities where you most often dwell. Stir our hearts that we might seek and find you today in those places where you have promised to be. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'"
- Matthew 3:1-3
"If, in spite of our inner contradictions, we set out again every morning towards Christ, it is not with any kind of normality in mind. It is with the ultimate goal in view, the goal beyond our hopes, that of becoming conformed to the very likeness of Jesus himself."
-Brother Roger of Taizé
prayer of the day
Lord, when we strive after healing in the world and nourishment for those who hunger, we find you at our side. Whenever we long to see your face, help us not to avoid the corners of our communities where you most often dwell. Stir our hearts that we might seek and find you today in those places where you have promised to be. Amen.
- Adapted from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Chief Joseph, Nez Perce leader of the Wal-lam-wat-kain (Wallowa) band
Prayer of the Day: Chief Joseph
So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison.
- Matthew 5:23-25
"Good words will not give my people good health and stop them from dying. Good words will not get my people a home where they can live in peace and take care of themselves. I am tired of talk that comes to nothing. It makes my heart sick when I remember all the good words and broken promises."
-Chief Joseph (Nez Perce tribal Leader)
Nez Perce
prayer of the day
God of care and compassion, let humility be our guide in assuming our positions of service and leadership. May we be instruments of justice to uphold the rights of others. As your Son humbled himself out of love to bring us closer to you, may we strive to follow his example of servant leadership. Amen.
So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison.
- Matthew 5:23-25
"Good words will not give my people good health and stop them from dying. Good words will not get my people a home where they can live in peace and take care of themselves. I am tired of talk that comes to nothing. It makes my heart sick when I remember all the good words and broken promises."
-Chief Joseph (Nez Perce tribal Leader)
Nez Perce
prayer of the day
God of care and compassion, let humility be our guide in assuming our positions of service and leadership. May we be instruments of justice to uphold the rights of others. As your Son humbled himself out of love to bring us closer to you, may we strive to follow his example of servant leadership. Amen.
Alexie Torres-Fleming co-founded the Bronx River Alliance
Prayer of the Day: Alexie Torres-Fleming
Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
- Romans 13:11-12
"I’m not a theologian, but I learned about the theology of the incarnation. One of the beautiful things I read is that you cannot redeem what you will not assume. It says to me experience of God among us was God among the poorest of the poor — colonized, marginalized, suffering, oppressed people. If I want to redeem that, I have to be willing to assume that, to become one with that."
- Alexie Torres-Fleming
prayer of the day
Lord, it was not enough for you to care for the poor. You chose to become one of them by descending as you did. Keep us free from fear and selfish preoccupations that we may walk as you walked among the poor, sick, and dying in body and spirit. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
- Romans 13:11-12
"I’m not a theologian, but I learned about the theology of the incarnation. One of the beautiful things I read is that you cannot redeem what you will not assume. It says to me experience of God among us was God among the poorest of the poor — colonized, marginalized, suffering, oppressed people. If I want to redeem that, I have to be willing to assume that, to become one with that."
- Alexie Torres-Fleming
prayer of the day
Lord, it was not enough for you to care for the poor. You chose to become one of them by descending as you did. Keep us free from fear and selfish preoccupations that we may walk as you walked among the poor, sick, and dying in body and spirit. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
St. Benedict of Nursia (480-547 AD)
Prayer of the Day: St. Benedict of Nursia (480-547 AD)
Then Peter began to speak to [the Gentiles]: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears [God] and does what is right is acceptable to [God]. You know the message [God] sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ — he is Lord of all."
- Acts 10:34-36
"All guests who arrive should be received as Christ, for he himself will say, 'I was a strange and you took me in.'"
- Saint Benedict of Nursia
prayer of the day
God of hope, fill our hearts with an Advent hope. As we wait expectantly for the coming of your son, may our longing of Christ's glory shape us into a people of hope and expectation, joy, and trust in the glory that is yet to come. May we live in light of this desire for the fullness of the glory of your son. Amen.
The Benedictine Rule is highly significant in that it not only governed monastic behavior and responsibilities in general, but charged the monks to read holy writings every day.
Then Peter began to speak to [the Gentiles]: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears [God] and does what is right is acceptable to [God]. You know the message [God] sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ — he is Lord of all."
- Acts 10:34-36
"All guests who arrive should be received as Christ, for he himself will say, 'I was a strange and you took me in.'"
- Saint Benedict of Nursia
prayer of the day
God of hope, fill our hearts with an Advent hope. As we wait expectantly for the coming of your son, may our longing of Christ's glory shape us into a people of hope and expectation, joy, and trust in the glory that is yet to come. May we live in light of this desire for the fullness of the glory of your son. Amen.
The Benedictine Rule is highly significant in that it not only governed monastic behavior and responsibilities in general, but charged the monks to read holy writings every day.
Maya Angelou
Prayer of the Day: Maya Angelou
It was the duty of the trumpeters and singers to make themselves heard in unison in praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, and when the song was raised, with trumpets and cymbals and other musical instruments, in praise to the Lord, "For [God] is good, for [God's] steadfast love endures for ever," the house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud.
- 2 Chronicles 5:13
“When you wish someone joy, you wish them peace, love, prosperity, happiness ... all the good things.”
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
Sovereign God, your son Jesus Christ assures us that you will continue to speak loving words to humankind, especially through the worst of circumstances. May the kingdom continue to come nearer, as we strive to live and share your love with others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. Amen.
It was the duty of the trumpeters and singers to make themselves heard in unison in praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, and when the song was raised, with trumpets and cymbals and other musical instruments, in praise to the Lord, "For [God] is good, for [God's] steadfast love endures for ever," the house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud.
- 2 Chronicles 5:13
“When you wish someone joy, you wish them peace, love, prosperity, happiness ... all the good things.”
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
Sovereign God, your son Jesus Christ assures us that you will continue to speak loving words to humankind, especially through the worst of circumstances. May the kingdom continue to come nearer, as we strive to live and share your love with others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. Amen.
Mother Teresa "“Peace begins with a smile..”
Prayer of the Day: Mother Teresa
As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
- John 15:9-11
"The joy of the presence of Jesus, you must be able to give wherever you go. But you cannot give what you don't have. That's why you need a pure heart, a pure heart that you will receive as a fruit of your prayer, as a fruit of your oneness with Christ."
- Mother Teresa
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer for the Church, may we come together as one body, and offer our compassion and care to those around who suffer the most. May God's kingdom come, and restore us all to the fullness of life. As our world struggles with suffering, may we put our trust in your love and mercy to see us through to the glory of your presence. Amen.
As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
- John 15:9-11
"The joy of the presence of Jesus, you must be able to give wherever you go. But you cannot give what you don't have. That's why you need a pure heart, a pure heart that you will receive as a fruit of your prayer, as a fruit of your oneness with Christ."
- Mother Teresa
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer for the Church, may we come together as one body, and offer our compassion and care to those around who suffer the most. May God's kingdom come, and restore us all to the fullness of life. As our world struggles with suffering, may we put our trust in your love and mercy to see us through to the glory of your presence. Amen.
“Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” ― Desmond Tutu
Desmond Tutu
Prayer of the Day: Desmond Tutu
Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term, that her penalty is paid, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins. A voice cries out: 'In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'
- Isaiah 40:1-3
"It is crucial too that we keep remembering that negotiations, peace talks, forgiveness, and reconciliation happen most frequently not between friends, not between those who life one another. They happen precisely because people are at loggerheads and detest one another as only enemies can. But enemies are potential allies, friends, colleagues, and collaborators."
- Desmond Tutu
prayer of the day
Creating Spirit, we marvel at your continual creation. We bask in your grace and mercy, recognizing the ways we fall short of your glory every day. We thank you for making new hearts in us, so that we may serve you more fully. We pray that your Holy Spirit may enliven us to live whole lives for you. Amen.
Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term, that her penalty is paid, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins. A voice cries out: 'In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'
- Isaiah 40:1-3
"It is crucial too that we keep remembering that negotiations, peace talks, forgiveness, and reconciliation happen most frequently not between friends, not between those who life one another. They happen precisely because people are at loggerheads and detest one another as only enemies can. But enemies are potential allies, friends, colleagues, and collaborators."
- Desmond Tutu
prayer of the day
Creating Spirit, we marvel at your continual creation. We bask in your grace and mercy, recognizing the ways we fall short of your glory every day. We thank you for making new hearts in us, so that we may serve you more fully. We pray that your Holy Spirit may enliven us to live whole lives for you. Amen.
Audre Lorde
Prayer of the Day: Audre Lorde
But when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought it was a ghost and cried out; for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Then he got into the boat with them and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded.
- Mark 6:49-51
Only by learning to live in harmony with your contradictions can you keep it all afloat.
- Audre Lorde
prayer
God of life, may our lives be a song that praises your son's name through all that we say and do. Grant us prudence to know that your son's command to love you and our neighbor also includes the command to love oneself. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one god, forever and ever. Amen.
But when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought it was a ghost and cried out; for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Then he got into the boat with them and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded.
- Mark 6:49-51
Only by learning to live in harmony with your contradictions can you keep it all afloat.
- Audre Lorde
prayer
God of life, may our lives be a song that praises your son's name through all that we say and do. Grant us prudence to know that your son's command to love you and our neighbor also includes the command to love oneself. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one god, forever and ever. Amen.
Coretta Scott King
Prayer of the Day: Coretta Scott King
For I know how many are your transgressions, and how great are your sins — you who afflict the righteous, who take a bribe, and push aside the needy in the gate. Therefore the prudent will keep silent in such a time; for it is an evil time.
- Amos 5:12-13
Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.
- Coretta Scott King
prayer of the day
Jesus, please remember us, and that will strengthen us to turn again to you, to choose life, to work for justice and peace, to practice hospitality, to love our neighbors, and to trust that you will strengthen and equip us for the task. Thanks be to God. Amen.
- Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
For I know how many are your transgressions, and how great are your sins — you who afflict the righteous, who take a bribe, and push aside the needy in the gate. Therefore the prudent will keep silent in such a time; for it is an evil time.
- Amos 5:12-13
Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.
- Coretta Scott King
prayer of the day
Jesus, please remember us, and that will strengthen us to turn again to you, to choose life, to work for justice and peace, to practice hospitality, to love our neighbors, and to trust that you will strengthen and equip us for the task. Thanks be to God. Amen.
- Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Laurence Freeman - Dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Prayer of the Day: Laurence Freeman
For lo, the one who forms the mountains, creates the wind, reveals [God's] thoughts to mortals, makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth — the Lord, the God of hosts, is [God's] name!
- Amos 4:13
"Most of us have half-a-dozen or so favorite anxieties, like bitter sweets we suck on endlessly. We would be frightened to be deprived of them. Jesus challenges us to go beyond the fear of letting go of anxiety, the fear we have of peace itself."
- Laurence Freeman
prayer of the day
God of mercy, we pray for the passion to seek Christ's healing presence in our lives. We pray for the Holy Spirit to shape our hearts, keeping us from judgmental grumbling at the conversion of those who might be most in need of God's forgiveness and grace. May we run with hopeful joy to meet your son each day of our lives, making room in our hearts for his sanctifying presence. Amen.
For lo, the one who forms the mountains, creates the wind, reveals [God's] thoughts to mortals, makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth — the Lord, the God of hosts, is [God's] name!
- Amos 4:13
"Most of us have half-a-dozen or so favorite anxieties, like bitter sweets we suck on endlessly. We would be frightened to be deprived of them. Jesus challenges us to go beyond the fear of letting go of anxiety, the fear we have of peace itself."
- Laurence Freeman
prayer of the day
God of mercy, we pray for the passion to seek Christ's healing presence in our lives. We pray for the Holy Spirit to shape our hearts, keeping us from judgmental grumbling at the conversion of those who might be most in need of God's forgiveness and grace. May we run with hopeful joy to meet your son each day of our lives, making room in our hearts for his sanctifying presence. Amen.
Brian McLaren
Prayer of the Day: Brian McLaren
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
- Luke 4:18-19
[Jesus] proposed a transformative vision of God. God isn't the one who condemns to poor and weak. God isn't the one who favors the rich and righteous. God isn't the one who ordains the rich to be in the castle and the poor to be in the gutter. God is the one who loves everyone, including the people the rest of us think don't count.
- Brian McLaren
prayer of the day
Lord, as we wake from another night's slumber, we are reminded that your dreams are given to us and not merely conjured up by our imaginations. Help us understand both that your dreams come at a price and that their rewards are immeasurable. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
- Luke 4:18-19
[Jesus] proposed a transformative vision of God. God isn't the one who condemns to poor and weak. God isn't the one who favors the rich and righteous. God isn't the one who ordains the rich to be in the castle and the poor to be in the gutter. God is the one who loves everyone, including the people the rest of us think don't count.
- Brian McLaren
prayer of the day
Lord, as we wake from another night's slumber, we are reminded that your dreams are given to us and not merely conjured up by our imaginations. Help us understand both that your dreams come at a price and that their rewards are immeasurable. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Maya Angelou
Prayer of the Day: Maya Angelou
When it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now very late; send them away so that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy something for themselves to eat.’
But he answered them, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They said to him, ‘Are we to go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread, and give it to them to eat?’ And he said to them, ‘How many loaves have you? Go and see.’ When they had found out, they said, ‘Five, and two fish.’
- Mark 6:35-38
"I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver."
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
Lord, to know you, we must dwell on the reality of your life, not just your death and resurrection. Remind us of our roots in Nazareth, in Galilee, in Capernaum, in Judea, and on Golgotha. Remind us that a servant is no greater than his hor her Master. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
All scripture passages are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. Words or phrases in [brackets] may be paraphrased for contextual clarity or inclusivity.
When it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now very late; send them away so that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy something for themselves to eat.’
But he answered them, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They said to him, ‘Are we to go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread, and give it to them to eat?’ And he said to them, ‘How many loaves have you? Go and see.’ When they had found out, they said, ‘Five, and two fish.’
- Mark 6:35-38
"I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver."
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
Lord, to know you, we must dwell on the reality of your life, not just your death and resurrection. Remind us of our roots in Nazareth, in Galilee, in Capernaum, in Judea, and on Golgotha. Remind us that a servant is no greater than his hor her Master. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
All scripture passages are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. Words or phrases in [brackets] may be paraphrased for contextual clarity or inclusivity.
Audre Lorde
Prayer of the Day: Audre Lorde
Verse
[God] divided the sea and let them pass through it, and made the waters stand like a heap. In the daytime [God] led them with a cloud, and all night long with a fiery light. [God] split rocks open in the wilderness, and gave them drink abundantly as from the deep. [God] made streams come out of the rock, and caused waters to flow down like rivers.
- Psalm 78:13-16
Voice
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.
- Audre Lorde
prayer of the day
O Lord, let my soul rise up to meet you as the day rises to meet the sun. Thank you God, that each morning you provide a new opportunity for us to follow you. We offer you the best of what we have, what already belongs to you. Let your tender mercies come to us that we might live. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Verse
[God] divided the sea and let them pass through it, and made the waters stand like a heap. In the daytime [God] led them with a cloud, and all night long with a fiery light. [God] split rocks open in the wilderness, and gave them drink abundantly as from the deep. [God] made streams come out of the rock, and caused waters to flow down like rivers.
- Psalm 78:13-16
Voice
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.
- Audre Lorde
prayer of the day
O Lord, let my soul rise up to meet you as the day rises to meet the sun. Thank you God, that each morning you provide a new opportunity for us to follow you. We offer you the best of what we have, what already belongs to you. Let your tender mercies come to us that we might live. Amen.
- From Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
Jean Vanier
Prayer of the Day: Jean Vanier
Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.
- Ephesians 4:31-32
voice
"Peace is not stasis; it is not the absence of violence: where there is isolation, separation and indifference between peoples, conflict can break out at any time. Nor is it simply civility and respect for the law, in which the walls of separation remain firm. Peace, rather, is the counter-dynamic to competition, rivalry and the clash of strengths. Peace can only come when the chain of violence is broken and the weaker members of society are fully welcomed, loved and respected."
- Jean Vanier
prayer of the day
God, we pray that we may continue to proclaim the Gospel faithfully in our diverse world, sharing God's invitation to the fullness of life through our words and deeds. We ask for courage to reach out to the poor, may we encounter the face of Christ through the love we share with one another through acts of charity, justice, and compassion. Amen.
Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.
- Ephesians 4:31-32
voice
"Peace is not stasis; it is not the absence of violence: where there is isolation, separation and indifference between peoples, conflict can break out at any time. Nor is it simply civility and respect for the law, in which the walls of separation remain firm. Peace, rather, is the counter-dynamic to competition, rivalry and the clash of strengths. Peace can only come when the chain of violence is broken and the weaker members of society are fully welcomed, loved and respected."
- Jean Vanier
prayer of the day
God, we pray that we may continue to proclaim the Gospel faithfully in our diverse world, sharing God's invitation to the fullness of life through our words and deeds. We ask for courage to reach out to the poor, may we encounter the face of Christ through the love we share with one another through acts of charity, justice, and compassion. Amen.
Marian Wright Edelman
Prayer of the Day: Marian Wright Edelman
And when the Lord smelt the pleasing odor, the Lord said in [the Lord's] heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground because of humankind, for the inclination of the human heart is evil from youth; nor will I ever again destroy every living creature as I have done. As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.’
- Genesis 8:21-22
"Learn to be quiet enough to hear the genuine within yourself so that you can hear it in others."
-Marian Wright Edelman
prayer of the day
Lord, hear our prayer. May we concern ourselves with revealing the kingdom of God through our faithful commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ. We pray for hope in the continued unfolding of the kingdom of God in our midst, trusting in Christ's reign to triumph, especially for those who suffer, who lack, who mourn, and who despair. Bless us with the courage to be living signs of God's unfolding reign. Amen.
And when the Lord smelt the pleasing odor, the Lord said in [the Lord's] heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground because of humankind, for the inclination of the human heart is evil from youth; nor will I ever again destroy every living creature as I have done. As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.’
- Genesis 8:21-22
"Learn to be quiet enough to hear the genuine within yourself so that you can hear it in others."
-Marian Wright Edelman
prayer of the day
Lord, hear our prayer. May we concern ourselves with revealing the kingdom of God through our faithful commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ. We pray for hope in the continued unfolding of the kingdom of God in our midst, trusting in Christ's reign to triumph, especially for those who suffer, who lack, who mourn, and who despair. Bless us with the courage to be living signs of God's unfolding reign. Amen.
Henry Miller
Prayer of the Day: Henry Miller
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, so that one may avoid the snares of death. Good sense wins favor, but the way of the faithless is their ruin. The clever do all things intelligently, but the fool displays folly. A bad messenger brings trouble, but a faithful envoy, healing.
- Proverbs 13:14-17 voice of the day
"The world is not to be put in order; the world is order, incarnate. It is for us to harmonize with this order."
-Henry Miller
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer. May the Holy Spirit help to root us in our Gospel mission and identity. You desire truth in the inward being; teach us wisdom in our hearts. May the Holy Spirit also guide our outward expressions of love in daily actions. May we use our gifts to serve our communities, so that our fellowship may truly reveal your Word to the world around us. Amen.
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, so that one may avoid the snares of death. Good sense wins favor, but the way of the faithless is their ruin. The clever do all things intelligently, but the fool displays folly. A bad messenger brings trouble, but a faithful envoy, healing.
- Proverbs 13:14-17 voice of the day
"The world is not to be put in order; the world is order, incarnate. It is for us to harmonize with this order."
-Henry Miller
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer. May the Holy Spirit help to root us in our Gospel mission and identity. You desire truth in the inward being; teach us wisdom in our hearts. May the Holy Spirit also guide our outward expressions of love in daily actions. May we use our gifts to serve our communities, so that our fellowship may truly reveal your Word to the world around us. Amen.
Etty Hillesum Quotes (Author of An Interrupted Life)
THURSDAY Etty Hillesum
By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
- Galatians 5:22-24
"I really see no other solution than to turn inwards and to root out all the rottenness there. I no longer believe that we can change anything in the world until we first change ourselves. And that seems to me the only lesson to be learned from this war."
-Etty Hillesum
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer for the Church. May our lives be faithful to the new covenant God has established for us through God's own Son, who calls us by name to share in his mission of the good news. Send us your Spirit to help make us faithful to the covenant as we follow the way of your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
- Galatians 5:22-24
"I really see no other solution than to turn inwards and to root out all the rottenness there. I no longer believe that we can change anything in the world until we first change ourselves. And that seems to me the only lesson to be learned from this war."
-Etty Hillesum
prayer
Lord, hear our prayer for the Church. May our lives be faithful to the new covenant God has established for us through God's own Son, who calls us by name to share in his mission of the good news. Send us your Spirit to help make us faithful to the covenant as we follow the way of your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values
MONDAY Robert M. Pirsig
When deeds of iniquity overwhelm us, you forgive our transgressions. Happy are those whom you choose and bring near to live in your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, your holy temple.
- Psalm 65:3-4
voice
"The place to improve the world is first in one's own heart and head and hands."
-Robert M. Persig (Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values)
prayer
God, we keep inventing ourselves and our underneath selves turn out to be less than adequate and we wish we were other than we are. We juggle your good purposes and our hidden yearnings and try to serve two masters, try to live two narratives, try to live two dreams, and we are weary. Gives us patience and steadfastness as we process the ragged edges of our lives. Amen.
-Adapted from Prayers for a Privileged People by Walter Brueggemann
When deeds of iniquity overwhelm us, you forgive our transgressions. Happy are those whom you choose and bring near to live in your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, your holy temple.
- Psalm 65:3-4
voice
"The place to improve the world is first in one's own heart and head and hands."
-Robert M. Persig (Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values)
prayer
God, we keep inventing ourselves and our underneath selves turn out to be less than adequate and we wish we were other than we are. We juggle your good purposes and our hidden yearnings and try to serve two masters, try to live two narratives, try to live two dreams, and we are weary. Gives us patience and steadfastness as we process the ragged edges of our lives. Amen.
-Adapted from Prayers for a Privileged People by Walter Brueggemann
Harriet Tubman
THURSDAY Harriet Tubman
The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; [God] will rejoice over you with gladness, [God] will renew you in [God's] love;
[God] will exult over you with loud singing.
- Zephaniah 3:17
"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
-Harriet Tubman
prayer
God whose grace touches us in our unworthiness, you come near and speak the healing word. Reveal to us this day a sign of your glory, that we might listen to your voice and walk in your ways. Amen.
-Adapted from Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer book
The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; [God] will rejoice over you with gladness, [God] will renew you in [God's] love;
[God] will exult over you with loud singing.
- Zephaniah 3:17
"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
-Harriet Tubman
prayer
God whose grace touches us in our unworthiness, you come near and speak the healing word. Reveal to us this day a sign of your glory, that we might listen to your voice and walk in your ways. Amen.
-Adapted from Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer book
“When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it--always.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
Thich Nhat Hanh
SUNDAY Thich Nhat Hanh
Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider how you have fared. You have sown much, and harvested little; you eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill; you clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; and you that earn wages earn wages to put them into a bag with holes.
- Haggai 1:5-6
"If you are not yet able to love yourself, you will not be able to love your enemy. But when you are able to love yourself, you can love anyone. When you do this, you will see that your so called enemy is not more or less than a human being who is suffering."
-Thich Nhat Hanh
prayer
Lord, we pray that the Holy Spirit inspires us to become signs of the reign of God, anticipating God's heavenly glory through the love, compassion, kindness, truth, goodness, and joy we share with one another. May our relationships with friends, neighbors, and enemies be filled with those signs of the reign of God. Amen.
Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider how you have fared. You have sown much, and harvested little; you eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill; you clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; and you that earn wages earn wages to put them into a bag with holes.
- Haggai 1:5-6
"If you are not yet able to love yourself, you will not be able to love your enemy. But when you are able to love yourself, you can love anyone. When you do this, you will see that your so called enemy is not more or less than a human being who is suffering."
-Thich Nhat Hanh
prayer
Lord, we pray that the Holy Spirit inspires us to become signs of the reign of God, anticipating God's heavenly glory through the love, compassion, kindness, truth, goodness, and joy we share with one another. May our relationships with friends, neighbors, and enemies be filled with those signs of the reign of God. Amen.
Maya Angelou
SUNDAY Maya Angelou
When he was alone, those who were around him along with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside, everything comes in parables; in order that “they may indeed look, but not perceive, and may indeed listen, but not understand; so that they may not turn again and be forgiven.”’
- Mark 4:10-12
voice of the day
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
May God's Spirit guide us to open our hearts wide to the grace of God surrounding us in the midst of our daily life. We pray for all who suffer separation from their loved ones as the carry out their work or studies, may God's Spirit comfort them and reassure them, empowering them to complete their duties. Amen.
When he was alone, those who were around him along with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside, everything comes in parables; in order that “they may indeed look, but not perceive, and may indeed listen, but not understand; so that they may not turn again and be forgiven.”’
- Mark 4:10-12
voice of the day
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”
-Maya Angelou
prayer of the day
May God's Spirit guide us to open our hearts wide to the grace of God surrounding us in the midst of our daily life. We pray for all who suffer separation from their loved ones as the carry out their work or studies, may God's Spirit comfort them and reassure them, empowering them to complete their duties. Amen.
Walt Whitman
WEDNESDAY Walt Whitman
See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.
- Malachi 3:1
voice of the day
"Whoever degrades another degrades me, and whatever is done or said returns at last to me."
-Walt Whitman
prayer
May the Holy Spirit strengthen our faith so that we will testify to God's abundant and unending love for humankind. We pray for all seeking justice, may our justice system strive to preserve the dignity and basic freedom for each person, especially those who are poor, voiceless, and marginalized. We pray for an increase of faith, may the Holy Spirit guide us to respond to God's Word. Amen.
See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.
- Malachi 3:1
voice of the day
"Whoever degrades another degrades me, and whatever is done or said returns at last to me."
-Walt Whitman
prayer
May the Holy Spirit strengthen our faith so that we will testify to God's abundant and unending love for humankind. We pray for all seeking justice, may our justice system strive to preserve the dignity and basic freedom for each person, especially those who are poor, voiceless, and marginalized. We pray for an increase of faith, may the Holy Spirit guide us to respond to God's Word. Amen.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
MONDAY Martin Luther King, Jr.
Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, “If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples; but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts are under the farthest skies, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place at which I have chosen to establish my name.”
- Nehemiah 1:8-9
"We must learn to live together as brothers [and sisters] or perish together as fools."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
prayer
All-knowing God, your Son Jesus Christ reminds us that nothing escapes you. You know our thoughts and our hearts better than we know ourselves. Send us your Holy Spirit to preserve us from useless duplicity and hypocrisy, guiding us toward the perfect integrity your Son showed us. May we welcome people in our lives who are working to build the kingdom of God. Amen.
Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, “If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples; but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts are under the farthest skies, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place at which I have chosen to establish my name.”
- Nehemiah 1:8-9
"We must learn to live together as brothers [and sisters] or perish together as fools."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
prayer
All-knowing God, your Son Jesus Christ reminds us that nothing escapes you. You know our thoughts and our hearts better than we know ourselves. Send us your Holy Spirit to preserve us from useless duplicity and hypocrisy, guiding us toward the perfect integrity your Son showed us. May we welcome people in our lives who are working to build the kingdom of God. Amen.
Archbishop Oscar Romero
FRIDAY Archbishop Oscar Romero
For you deliver a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. It is you who light my lamp; the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
- Psalm 18:27-28
"It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view. The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision. We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work. ... We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker. We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We are prophets of a future that is not our own."
-Archbishop Oscar Romero
prayer of the day
Holy God, we bring our prayers to you as acts of love for you and for our neighbors. Your love knows no partiality. We pray for our community and for our neighbors. You are the Lord of all you have made. We pray for the world, that your reign may come and your will be done on earth. Amen.
-Adapted from Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer Book
For you deliver a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. It is you who light my lamp; the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
- Psalm 18:27-28
"It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view. The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision. We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work. ... We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker. We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We are prophets of a future that is not our own."
-Archbishop Oscar Romero
prayer of the day
Holy God, we bring our prayers to you as acts of love for you and for our neighbors. Your love knows no partiality. We pray for our community and for our neighbors. You are the Lord of all you have made. We pray for the world, that your reign may come and your will be done on earth. Amen.
-Adapted from Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer Book
Teresa of Avila
Teresa of Avila
He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?’
- Mark 4:39-40
"May nothing wind you up, nothing affright you; everything comes and goes.
God, still, just there; through patience all will be achieved. If you have God, you lack nothing: God alone will do."
-Teresa of Avila
prayer
Creator of the Universe, preserve us from our own presumption. Do not let us close ourselves into ourselves, but open us continually into you. Let us be more in love with You than with our notions of You. Let us stop claiming to know everything so that we may understand something. Amen.
- Rabia Terri Harris
He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?’
- Mark 4:39-40
"May nothing wind you up, nothing affright you; everything comes and goes.
God, still, just there; through patience all will be achieved. If you have God, you lack nothing: God alone will do."
-Teresa of Avila
prayer
Creator of the Universe, preserve us from our own presumption. Do not let us close ourselves into ourselves, but open us continually into you. Let us be more in love with You than with our notions of You. Let us stop claiming to know everything so that we may understand something. Amen.
- Rabia Terri Harris
William Penn
William Penn
When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, ‘Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.’ And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders; and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him.
- John 8:7-9
"No pain, no palm; no thorns, no throne; no gall, no glory; no cross, no crown."
-William Penn
prayer
Heavenly God, grant us the faith to turn to you in prayer, and to seek your presence in our lives. May a sense of your presence be a firm foundation for all that we do, say, or carry out, especially in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, ‘Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.’ And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders; and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him.
- John 8:7-9
"No pain, no palm; no thorns, no throne; no gall, no glory; no cross, no crown."
-William Penn
prayer
Heavenly God, grant us the faith to turn to you in prayer, and to seek your presence in our lives. May a sense of your presence be a firm foundation for all that we do, say, or carry out, especially in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Eugene Debs
Eugene Debs
‘And you saw the distress of our ancestors in Egypt and heard their cry at the Red Sea.'
- Nehemiah 9:9
While there is a lower class I am in it, while there is a criminal element I am of it; while there is a soul in prison, I am not free.
-Eugene Debs
prayer
Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where knowledge is free. Where words come out from the depth of truth; where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way in to the dreary desert sand of dead habit. Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening thought and action--into that heaven of freedom, my God, let my country awake. Amen.
- Rabindranath Tagore
‘And you saw the distress of our ancestors in Egypt and heard their cry at the Red Sea.'
- Nehemiah 9:9
While there is a lower class I am in it, while there is a criminal element I am of it; while there is a soul in prison, I am not free.
-Eugene Debs
prayer
Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where knowledge is free. Where words come out from the depth of truth; where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way in to the dreary desert sand of dead habit. Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening thought and action--into that heaven of freedom, my God, let my country awake. Amen.
- Rabindranath Tagore
Julian of Norwich
SATURDAY Julian of Norwich
He also said, ‘With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.’
- Mark 4:30-32
The mother's service is nearest, readiest, and surest. It is nearest because it is more natural; readiest because it is most loving; and surest because it is truest. No one ever might or could perfrom this office fully, except only Jesus. We know that all our mothers bear us for pain and for death. Oh, what is that? But our true Mother Jesus, he alone bears us for joy and for endless life. So he carries us with him in love and travail.
-Julian of Norwich
prayer of the day
Lord, hear our prayer. May our mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world help to plant the seeds of faith in the hearts of those who hear the Word. We are thankful for your transforming grace. May we entrust our lives to you as we accept in faith your invitation to the fullness of life. Amen.
He also said, ‘With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.’
- Mark 4:30-32
The mother's service is nearest, readiest, and surest. It is nearest because it is more natural; readiest because it is most loving; and surest because it is truest. No one ever might or could perfrom this office fully, except only Jesus. We know that all our mothers bear us for pain and for death. Oh, what is that? But our true Mother Jesus, he alone bears us for joy and for endless life. So he carries us with him in love and travail.
-Julian of Norwich
prayer of the day
Lord, hear our prayer. May our mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world help to plant the seeds of faith in the hearts of those who hear the Word. We are thankful for your transforming grace. May we entrust our lives to you as we accept in faith your invitation to the fullness of life. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
FRIDAY Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
- James 1:27
Sometimes, when what is officially the law is wrong, you try to get the law changed. But if you can’t, you break it.
-Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
prayer of the day
You hear our prayers whether they are full of thanksgiving or full of complaints. Your mercy is unending. Even in your discipline you restrain yourself in ways we cannot know. May our mumbled words of gratitude and our fleeting praises find crevices where they can grown within your presence, Lord of light and morning. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
- James 1:27
Sometimes, when what is officially the law is wrong, you try to get the law changed. But if you can’t, you break it.
-Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
prayer of the day
You hear our prayers whether they are full of thanksgiving or full of complaints. Your mercy is unending. Even in your discipline you restrain yourself in ways we cannot know. May our mumbled words of gratitude and our fleeting praises find crevices where they can grown within your presence, Lord of light and morning. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Abigail Adams
THURSDAY Abigail Adams
[The Lord] has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; [the Lord] has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
- Luke 1:52-53
voice of the day
"I am more and more convinced that [humans are] dangerous creature[s]; and that power, whether vested in many or a few, is ever grasping, and like the grave, cries 'Give, give!'"
-Abigail Adams
prayer of the day
Lord, make us more thankful for what we have received; make us more content with what we have; and make us more mindful of other people in need. Amen.
- Based on a Prayer by Simon H. Baynes
[The Lord] has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; [the Lord] has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
- Luke 1:52-53
voice of the day
"I am more and more convinced that [humans are] dangerous creature[s]; and that power, whether vested in many or a few, is ever grasping, and like the grave, cries 'Give, give!'"
-Abigail Adams
prayer of the day
Lord, make us more thankful for what we have received; make us more content with what we have; and make us more mindful of other people in need. Amen.
- Based on a Prayer by Simon H. Baynes
W.E.B. Du Bois
WEDNESDAY W.E.B. Du Bois
He answered, ‘Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.’ And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons.
- Mark 1:38-39
Jesus challenges us to love others as we would love ourselves. True love for God is not complete without true love and compassion for others.
- Anissa Danielle Gibbs
prayer
Give us grace, O God, to dare to do the deed which we well know cries to be done. Let us not hesitate because of ease, or the words of [other's] mouths, or our own lives. Mighty causes are calling us — the freedom of women, the training of children, the putting down of hate and murder and poverty — all these and more. But they call with voices that mean work and sacrifice and death. Mercifully grant us, O God, the spirit of Esther, that we say: I will go unto the King, and if I perish, I perish. Amen.
- W.E.B. Du Bois
He answered, ‘Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.’ And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons.
- Mark 1:38-39
Jesus challenges us to love others as we would love ourselves. True love for God is not complete without true love and compassion for others.
- Anissa Danielle Gibbs
prayer
Give us grace, O God, to dare to do the deed which we well know cries to be done. Let us not hesitate because of ease, or the words of [other's] mouths, or our own lives. Mighty causes are calling us — the freedom of women, the training of children, the putting down of hate and murder and poverty — all these and more. But they call with voices that mean work and sacrifice and death. Mercifully grant us, O God, the spirit of Esther, that we say: I will go unto the King, and if I perish, I perish. Amen.
- W.E.B. Du Bois
Howard Thurman
TUESDAY Howard Thurman
We love because [God] first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God,' and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from [God] is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
- 1 John 4:19-21
Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
-Howard Thurman
prayer
God of justice, empower us by your Spirit to stand up for your goodness and truth, trusting in your sovereignty to prevail over persecution and oppression in our world today. Amen.
We love because [God] first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God,' and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from [God] is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
- 1 John 4:19-21
Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
-Howard Thurman
prayer
God of justice, empower us by your Spirit to stand up for your goodness and truth, trusting in your sovereignty to prevail over persecution and oppression in our world today. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
MONDAY Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
- James 1:27
Sometimes, when what is officially the law is wrong, you try to get the law changed. But if you can’t, you break it.
-Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
prayer
You hear our prayers whether they are full of thanksgiving or full of complaints. Your mercy is unending. Even in your discipline you restrain yourself in ways we cannot know. May our mumbled words of gratitude and our fleeting praises find crevices where they can grown within your presence, Lord of light and morning. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
- James 1:27
Sometimes, when what is officially the law is wrong, you try to get the law changed. But if you can’t, you break it.
-Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree
prayer
You hear our prayers whether they are full of thanksgiving or full of complaints. Your mercy is unending. Even in your discipline you restrain yourself in ways we cannot know. May our mumbled words of gratitude and our fleeting praises find crevices where they can grown within your presence, Lord of light and morning. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Mary Oliver
SUNDAY Mary Oliver
When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax-collectors, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax-collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’
- Mark 2:16-17
"I don't know exactly what a prayer is. I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass, ... which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your own wild and precious life?"
-Mary Oliver
prayer
Lord, my thoughts turn in upon myself. Turn them upward to you and outward to your other children, that I may forget myself and lose all fear and anxiety, all self-seeking and self-consciousness, in worship of you and in love of others. O save me from myself to worship, love, and serve in perfect freedom. Amen.
- Prayer by George Appleton
When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax-collectors, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax-collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’
- Mark 2:16-17
"I don't know exactly what a prayer is. I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass, ... which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your own wild and precious life?"
-Mary Oliver
prayer
Lord, my thoughts turn in upon myself. Turn them upward to you and outward to your other children, that I may forget myself and lose all fear and anxiety, all self-seeking and self-consciousness, in worship of you and in love of others. O save me from myself to worship, love, and serve in perfect freedom. Amen.
- Prayer by George Appleton
Thomas Merton
SATURDAY Thomas Merton
Then God said, 'Let there be light;' and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness [God] called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
- Genesis 1:3-5
"The beginning of love is the will to let those we love be perfectly themselves, the resolution not to twist them to fit our own image."
-Thomas Merton
prayer
Lord God, take my hand. It's me, begging you to take my hand. Just for today. Lift me up into the light of your love, so that I may see the reflection of my face in yours. Restore me to sanity. Fill me with your grace. Amen.
- "A Prayer for the Hardest of Times"
Then God said, 'Let there be light;' and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness [God] called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
- Genesis 1:3-5
"The beginning of love is the will to let those we love be perfectly themselves, the resolution not to twist them to fit our own image."
-Thomas Merton
prayer
Lord God, take my hand. It's me, begging you to take my hand. Just for today. Lift me up into the light of your love, so that I may see the reflection of my face in yours. Restore me to sanity. Fill me with your grace. Amen.
- "A Prayer for the Hardest of Times"
Helen Keller
FRIDAY Helen Keller
All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need.
-Acts 2:44-45
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it."
-Helen Keller
prayer
Lord, we weep with those who weep and refuse to be consoled. May our tears mix with yours in a river of justice, flowing down like mighty waters, transforming the world that is into one that ought to be. Amen.
-Common Prayer
All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need.
-Acts 2:44-45
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it."
-Helen Keller
prayer
Lord, we weep with those who weep and refuse to be consoled. May our tears mix with yours in a river of justice, flowing down like mighty waters, transforming the world that is into one that ought to be. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Marian Anderson
THURSDAY Marian Anderson
I lift my eyes to the hills --
from where will my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
- Psalm 121:1-2
"No matter how big a nation is, it is no stronger that its weakest people, and as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold [that person] down, so it means you cannot soar as you might otherwise."
-Marian Anderson
prayer
Give us, O God, a vision of your world as your love would make it;
a world whose different people and cultures
live in tolerance and mutual respect;
a world where peace is built with justice,
and justice is fired with love. Amen.
I lift my eyes to the hills --
from where will my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
- Psalm 121:1-2
"No matter how big a nation is, it is no stronger that its weakest people, and as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold [that person] down, so it means you cannot soar as you might otherwise."
-Marian Anderson
prayer
Give us, O God, a vision of your world as your love would make it;
a world whose different people and cultures
live in tolerance and mutual respect;
a world where peace is built with justice,
and justice is fired with love. Amen.
Albert Schweitzer
WEDNESDAY Albert Schweitzer
Do not be a terror to me; You are my refuge in the day of disaster.
- Jeremiah 17:17
A man is truly ethical only when he obeys the compulsion to help all life which he is able to assist, and shrinks from injuring anything that lives.
-Albert Schweitzer
prayer
Dear God, we lift up our elected officials. During this time of difficult and serious decision making, we pray that you put a spirit of civility and reconciliation into the hearts of those called to lead our country. Give them discernment, humility, empathy, and willingness to put the common good above politics. Amen.
Do not be a terror to me; You are my refuge in the day of disaster.
- Jeremiah 17:17
A man is truly ethical only when he obeys the compulsion to help all life which he is able to assist, and shrinks from injuring anything that lives.
-Albert Schweitzer
prayer
Dear God, we lift up our elected officials. During this time of difficult and serious decision making, we pray that you put a spirit of civility and reconciliation into the hearts of those called to lead our country. Give them discernment, humility, empathy, and willingness to put the common good above politics. Amen.
Billy Graham
TUESDAY Billy Graham
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace.
- Psalm 37:37
The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.
-Billy Graham
prayer
God of peace, be a light to all people, especially those suffering in the pain and darkness of war. Soften the hearts of those who harm others, give perseverance to those in conflict, and grant wisdom and compassion to all in positions of leadership worldwide. Amen.
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace.
- Psalm 37:37
The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.
-Billy Graham
prayer
God of peace, be a light to all people, especially those suffering in the pain and darkness of war. Soften the hearts of those who harm others, give perseverance to those in conflict, and grant wisdom and compassion to all in positions of leadership worldwide. Amen.
Thomas A. Kempis
MONDAY Thomas A. Kempis
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
- John 16:33
First keep the peace within yourself, then you can also bring peace to others.
-Thomas A. Kempis
prayer
God, we ask for your peace to transcend conflict. We ask not simply for a cessation of violence but for a reconciliation of relationships. Jesus, our Prince of Peace, we long to see your kingdom come on earth. Let it be so.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
- John 16:33
First keep the peace within yourself, then you can also bring peace to others.
-Thomas A. Kempis
prayer
God, we ask for your peace to transcend conflict. We ask not simply for a cessation of violence but for a reconciliation of relationships. Jesus, our Prince of Peace, we long to see your kingdom come on earth. Let it be so.
Chinua Achebe
SUNDAY Chinua Achebe
By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain's. Through this he received approval as righteous, [with] God giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks.
- Hebrews 11:4
“We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own. The Igbo, always practical, put it concretely in their proverb Onye ji onye n'ani ji onwe ya: "He who will hold another down in the mud must stay in the mud to keep him down.”
-Chinua Achebe
prayer
Merciful God, nothing can separate us from you. When the distance between you and us seems unbearable, help us to move closer to you, knowing that by your mercy you are never beyond our reach. Amen.
-From Common Prayer
By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain's. Through this he received approval as righteous, [with] God giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks.
- Hebrews 11:4
“We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own. The Igbo, always practical, put it concretely in their proverb Onye ji onye n'ani ji onwe ya: "He who will hold another down in the mud must stay in the mud to keep him down.”
-Chinua Achebe
prayer
Merciful God, nothing can separate us from you. When the distance between you and us seems unbearable, help us to move closer to you, knowing that by your mercy you are never beyond our reach. Amen.
-From Common Prayer
Ella Baker
SATURDAY Ella Baker
For thus says the LORD: Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, "Save, O LORD, your people, the remnant of Israel."
- Jeremiah 31:7
"Until the killing of black men, black mothers’ sons, is as important as the killing of white mothers’ sons, we who believe in freedom cannot rest."
- Ella Baker
prayer
Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth
Present everywhere and filling all things,
Treasury of blessings and giver of life,
Come and abide in us,
And cleanse our hearts from every impurity,
And save our souls, For you are good and love all people.
- Orthodox Christian prayer
For thus says the LORD: Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, "Save, O LORD, your people, the remnant of Israel."
- Jeremiah 31:7
"Until the killing of black men, black mothers’ sons, is as important as the killing of white mothers’ sons, we who believe in freedom cannot rest."
- Ella Baker
prayer
Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth
Present everywhere and filling all things,
Treasury of blessings and giver of life,
Come and abide in us,
And cleanse our hearts from every impurity,
And save our souls, For you are good and love all people.
- Orthodox Christian prayer
Howard Thurman
FRIDAY Howard Thurman
The law of the Lord is perfect and revives the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure and gives wisdom to the innocent.
-Psalm 19:7
Too often the price exacted by society for security and respectability is that the Christian movement in its formal expression must be on the side of the strong against the weak. This is a matter of tremendous significance, for it reveals to what extent a religion that was born of a people acquainted with persecution and suffering has become the cornerstone of a civilization and of nations whose very position in modern life too often has been secured by a ruthless use of power applied to defenseless peoples.
-Howard Thurman
prayer
Sweet Lord, save us. Heal all that is broken in our lives, in our streets, and in our world. Amen.
-Common Prayer
The law of the Lord is perfect and revives the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure and gives wisdom to the innocent.
-Psalm 19:7
Too often the price exacted by society for security and respectability is that the Christian movement in its formal expression must be on the side of the strong against the weak. This is a matter of tremendous significance, for it reveals to what extent a religion that was born of a people acquainted with persecution and suffering has become the cornerstone of a civilization and of nations whose very position in modern life too often has been secured by a ruthless use of power applied to defenseless peoples.
-Howard Thurman
prayer
Sweet Lord, save us. Heal all that is broken in our lives, in our streets, and in our world. Amen.
-Common Prayer
John Wesley
THURSDAY John Wesley
The Lord upholds all those who fall: he lifts up those who are bowed down.
-Psalm 145:14
I believe the merciful God regards the lives and tempers of men more than their ideas. I believe he respects the goodness of the heart, rather than the clearness of the head.
-John Wesley
prayer
Sweet Lord, save us. Heal all that is broken in our lives, in our streets, and in our world. Amen.
-Common Prayer
The Lord upholds all those who fall: he lifts up those who are bowed down.
-Psalm 145:14
I believe the merciful God regards the lives and tempers of men more than their ideas. I believe he respects the goodness of the heart, rather than the clearness of the head.
-John Wesley
prayer
Sweet Lord, save us. Heal all that is broken in our lives, in our streets, and in our world. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Archbishop Oscar Romero
WEDNESDAY Archbishop Oscar Romero
Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.
- Galatians 6:2
A church that doesn't provoke any crises, a gospel that doesn't unsettle, a word of God that doesn't get under anyone's skin, a word of God that doesn't touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed — what gospel is that?
-Archbishop Oscar Romero
prayer
O God, our deliverer, we thank you that you have not left us alone. Thank you for the Spirit who intercedes for us. Give us wisdom beyond ourselves that we might see the path you have set before us. Grant us words that bring life to the broken, the suffering, the addicted, the lonely, and those who long for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.
- Galatians 6:2
A church that doesn't provoke any crises, a gospel that doesn't unsettle, a word of God that doesn't get under anyone's skin, a word of God that doesn't touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed — what gospel is that?
-Archbishop Oscar Romero
prayer
O God, our deliverer, we thank you that you have not left us alone. Thank you for the Spirit who intercedes for us. Give us wisdom beyond ourselves that we might see the path you have set before us. Grant us words that bring life to the broken, the suffering, the addicted, the lonely, and those who long for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Desmond Tutu
TUESDAY Desmond Tutu
...whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all.
- Mark 10:43-44
The first law of our being is that we are set in a delicate network of interdependence with our fellow human beings and with the rest of God's creation.
-Desmond Tutu
prayer of the day
Lord, we pray that you bless our president and members of Congress with wisdom and right judgment. May they always seek the common good and be willing to listen to the voices of all, especially those whose voices are often silenced. Amen.
...whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all.
- Mark 10:43-44
The first law of our being is that we are set in a delicate network of interdependence with our fellow human beings and with the rest of God's creation.
-Desmond Tutu
prayer of the day
Lord, we pray that you bless our president and members of Congress with wisdom and right judgment. May they always seek the common good and be willing to listen to the voices of all, especially those whose voices are often silenced. Amen.
Archbishop Rowan Williams
MONDAY Archbishop Rowan Williams
I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!
- John 16:33
Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.
-Archbishop Rowan Williams
prayer
Almighty God, tear down the walls that divide us. Remove whatever infects our eyes, that we see the stranger not as different but as a brother or a sister. Amen.
I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!
- John 16:33
Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.
-Archbishop Rowan Williams
prayer
Almighty God, tear down the walls that divide us. Remove whatever infects our eyes, that we see the stranger not as different but as a brother or a sister. Amen.
Mohatma Gandhi
SATURDAY Mohatma Gandhi
Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.
- John 10:1-2
Prayer is not an old woman's idle amusement. Properly understood and applied, it is the most potent instrument of action.
-Mohandas Gandhi
prayer
Lord, train us to hear your voice. When it is time to grieve, help us to grieve. When it is time to rejoice, help us to rejoice. When we grow weary, be the strength in our weakness. And may your most beautiful and perfect will, not ours, be done. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.
- John 10:1-2
Prayer is not an old woman's idle amusement. Properly understood and applied, it is the most potent instrument of action.
-Mohandas Gandhi
prayer
Lord, train us to hear your voice. When it is time to grieve, help us to grieve. When it is time to rejoice, help us to rejoice. When we grow weary, be the strength in our weakness. And may your most beautiful and perfect will, not ours, be done. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Martin Luther King Jr.
FRIDAY Martin Luther King Jr.
Thus says the Lord: Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed.
- Isaiah 56:1
It is not enough to say 'We must not wage war.' It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it.
-Martin Luther King Jr.
prayer
Lord, we take comfort in knowing that you have shared in our trials. You know pain and betrayal, and you are familiar with suffering. Strengthen us in hard times and remind us that you have overcome the evil of this world. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Thus says the Lord: Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed.
- Isaiah 56:1
It is not enough to say 'We must not wage war.' It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it.
-Martin Luther King Jr.
prayer
Lord, we take comfort in knowing that you have shared in our trials. You know pain and betrayal, and you are familiar with suffering. Strengthen us in hard times and remind us that you have overcome the evil of this world. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Anne Frank - The Diary of a Young Girl
THURSDAY Anne Frank
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Dr. John Perkins Book: "Confessions of an Economic Hit Man"
WEDNESDAY Dr. John Perkins
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
- Psalm 130:3-4
Go to the people. Live among them. Learn from them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build on what they have. But of the best leaders, when their task is accomplished, when their work is done ... the people will remark: 'We have done it ourselves.'
-often quoted by John Perkins Proverb
prayer
Dear Lord, remind us that no one is above reproach, and no one is beyond redemption. Help us to look into the eyes of people we find hard to like, and see your image. Assure us this day that your mercy triumphs over judgment. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
- Psalm 130:3-4
Go to the people. Live among them. Learn from them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build on what they have. But of the best leaders, when their task is accomplished, when their work is done ... the people will remark: 'We have done it ourselves.'
-often quoted by John Perkins Proverb
prayer
Dear Lord, remind us that no one is above reproach, and no one is beyond redemption. Help us to look into the eyes of people we find hard to like, and see your image. Assure us this day that your mercy triumphs over judgment. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Parker Palmer - Book "Let Your Life Speak"
WEDNESDAY Parker Palmer
And the Spirit immediately drove [Jesus] out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.
-Mark 1:12-13
The power of a fully lived life or a truly learned mind is not a power to be sought or contrived. It comes only as we let go of what we possess and find ourselves possessed by a truth greater than oru own.
-Parker Palmer
prayer
God our provider, all good gifts come from you. Make us so thankful for your gifts that we cannot help but share them with others. Own us as your fools as we abandon the stuff of this world for the treasures of your kingdom. Amen.
-Common Prayer
And the Spirit immediately drove [Jesus] out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.
-Mark 1:12-13
The power of a fully lived life or a truly learned mind is not a power to be sought or contrived. It comes only as we let go of what we possess and find ourselves possessed by a truth greater than oru own.
-Parker Palmer
prayer
God our provider, all good gifts come from you. Make us so thankful for your gifts that we cannot help but share them with others. Own us as your fools as we abandon the stuff of this world for the treasures of your kingdom. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Augustine
MONDAY Augustine
May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from [God’s] glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to [God], who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.
-Colossians 1:11-12
In affliction, then, we do not know what it is right to pray for. Because affliction is difficult, troublesome, and against the grain for us, weak as we are, we do what every human would do. We pray that it may be taken away from us. However, if he does not take it away, we must not imagine that he has forgotten us. In this way, power shines forth more perfectly in weakness.
-Augustine
prayer
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be always acceptable to you, o Lord, my strength and my redeemer.
-Psalm 19:14
May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from [God’s] glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to [God], who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.
-Colossians 1:11-12
In affliction, then, we do not know what it is right to pray for. Because affliction is difficult, troublesome, and against the grain for us, weak as we are, we do what every human would do. We pray that it may be taken away from us. However, if he does not take it away, we must not imagine that he has forgotten us. In this way, power shines forth more perfectly in weakness.
-Augustine
prayer
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be always acceptable to you, o Lord, my strength and my redeemer.
-Psalm 19:14
Frederick Buechner -Author of Telling the Truth
SUNDAY Frederick Buechner
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
-1 Corinthians 13:1-3
The grace of God means something like: Here is your life. You might never have been, but you are because the party wouldn't have been complete without you. Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don't be afraid. I am with you. Nothing can ever separate us. It's for you I created the universe. I love you. There's only one catch. Like any other gift, the gift of grace can be yours only if you'll reach out and take it. Maybe being able to reach out and take it is a gift too.
-Frederick Buechner
prayer
Jesus, it is enough to tell others of your works of mercy, of your resurrection, of your imminent return. It is enough to praise you in the sanctuary, to kneel before you, to wait in silence for you. Lord, it is enough to be named as one of your children, to be bound in eternal love and freedom to give up our lives for you. Amen.
-Common Prayer
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
-1 Corinthians 13:1-3
The grace of God means something like: Here is your life. You might never have been, but you are because the party wouldn't have been complete without you. Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don't be afraid. I am with you. Nothing can ever separate us. It's for you I created the universe. I love you. There's only one catch. Like any other gift, the gift of grace can be yours only if you'll reach out and take it. Maybe being able to reach out and take it is a gift too.
-Frederick Buechner
prayer
Jesus, it is enough to tell others of your works of mercy, of your resurrection, of your imminent return. It is enough to praise you in the sanctuary, to kneel before you, to wait in silence for you. Lord, it is enough to be named as one of your children, to be bound in eternal love and freedom to give up our lives for you. Amen.
-Common Prayer
Second Century - Early Church
SATURDAY
Letter to Diognetus, an early Christian writing whose author is unknown
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that [God] has promised to those who love [the Lord]?
- James 2:5
Christians live in their own countries, but only as guests and aliens. They take part in everything as citizens and endure everything as aliens. ... They are as poor as begars, and yet they make many rich. They lack everything, and yet they have everything in abundance. They are dishonored, and yet have their glory in this very dishonor. ... They are abused, yet they bless. ... In a word: what the soul is in the body, the Christians are in the world.
-Letter to Diognetus, an early Christian writing whose author is unknown
prayer
God of all creation, awaken us to the beauty around us, that we may see glimpses of you both in nature and in our neighbor. Amen.
Letter to Diognetus, an early Christian writing whose author is unknown
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that [God] has promised to those who love [the Lord]?
- James 2:5
Christians live in their own countries, but only as guests and aliens. They take part in everything as citizens and endure everything as aliens. ... They are as poor as begars, and yet they make many rich. They lack everything, and yet they have everything in abundance. They are dishonored, and yet have their glory in this very dishonor. ... They are abused, yet they bless. ... In a word: what the soul is in the body, the Christians are in the world.
-Letter to Diognetus, an early Christian writing whose author is unknown
prayer
God of all creation, awaken us to the beauty around us, that we may see glimpses of you both in nature and in our neighbor. Amen.
D.H. Lawrence
FRIDAY D.H. Lawrence
Better is a dinner of vegetables where love is than a fatted ox and hatred with it.
- Proverbs 15:17
Plant consciousness, insect consciousness, fish consciousness, animal consciousness, are all related by one permanent element, which we may call the religious element in all life, even in a flea: the sense of wonder. That is our sixth sense. And it is the natural religious sense.
- D.H. Lawrence
prayer
Lord, thank you for using the foolish to confound the wise and the weak ones to shame the strong. Help us live with the shrewdness of serpents and the innocence of doves. Keep our feet from fatigue, our spirits from despair, and our hands from failing to rise in praise to you. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Better is a dinner of vegetables where love is than a fatted ox and hatred with it.
- Proverbs 15:17
Plant consciousness, insect consciousness, fish consciousness, animal consciousness, are all related by one permanent element, which we may call the religious element in all life, even in a flea: the sense of wonder. That is our sixth sense. And it is the natural religious sense.
- D.H. Lawrence
prayer
Lord, thank you for using the foolish to confound the wise and the weak ones to shame the strong. Help us live with the shrewdness of serpents and the innocence of doves. Keep our feet from fatigue, our spirits from despair, and our hands from failing to rise in praise to you. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Joan Chittister
THURSDAY Joan Chittister
Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
- 1 John 3:18
Compassion for the other comes out of our ability to accept ourselves. Until we realize both our own weaknesses and our own privileges, we can never tolerate lack of status and depth of weakness in the other.
-Joan Chittister
prayer
May God bless us with the gift of tears to shed with those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, or the loss of all that they cherish, so that we may reach out our hands to comfort them and transform their pain into joy.
- Four-fold Franciscan Blessing
Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
- 1 John 3:18
Compassion for the other comes out of our ability to accept ourselves. Until we realize both our own weaknesses and our own privileges, we can never tolerate lack of status and depth of weakness in the other.
-Joan Chittister
prayer
May God bless us with the gift of tears to shed with those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, or the loss of all that they cherish, so that we may reach out our hands to comfort them and transform their pain into joy.
- Four-fold Franciscan Blessing
Simone Weil
WEDNESDAY Simone Weil
If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.
- Galatians 5:25-26
Humility is attentive patience.
-Simone Weil
prayer
Lord God, our hands are open to you. Our ears are listening to you. Our eyes are watching you. Our hearts are trying to beat with yours. Live in us and love others through us today. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.
- Galatians 5:25-26
Humility is attentive patience.
-Simone Weil
prayer
Lord God, our hands are open to you. Our ears are listening to you. Our eyes are watching you. Our hearts are trying to beat with yours. Live in us and love others through us today. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Madeleine L'Engle - "A Wrinkle in Time"
TUESDAY Madeleine L'Engle
Happy are those who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times.
- Psalm 106:3
I sit on my favorite rock, looking over the brook, to take time away from busy-ness, time to be. ... It's something we all need for our spiritual health, and often we don't take enough of it.
-Madeleine L'Engle
prayer
My God, I give you this day. I offer you, now, all of the good that I shall do and I promise to accept, for love of you, all of the difficulty that I shall meet. Help me to conduct myself during this day in a manner pleasing to you. Amen.
- A prayer of St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622
Happy are those who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times.
- Psalm 106:3
I sit on my favorite rock, looking over the brook, to take time away from busy-ness, time to be. ... It's something we all need for our spiritual health, and often we don't take enough of it.
-Madeleine L'Engle
prayer
My God, I give you this day. I offer you, now, all of the good that I shall do and I promise to accept, for love of you, all of the difficulty that I shall meet. Help me to conduct myself during this day in a manner pleasing to you. Amen.
- A prayer of St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622
Simone Weil was a French philosopher, Christian mystic
MONDAY Simone Weil
There will be one Instruction for the native and for the immigrant who lives with you.
- Exodus 12:49 (Common English Bible)
Today it is not nearly enough merely to be a saint; but we must have the saintliness demanded by the present moment, a new saintliness.
-Simone Weil
prayer
Lord, make it second nature for us to do what is right in your sight. Make us more concerned with abiding by the tenets of your kingdom than by human law. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
There will be one Instruction for the native and for the immigrant who lives with you.
- Exodus 12:49 (Common English Bible)
Today it is not nearly enough merely to be a saint; but we must have the saintliness demanded by the present moment, a new saintliness.
-Simone Weil
prayer
Lord, make it second nature for us to do what is right in your sight. Make us more concerned with abiding by the tenets of your kingdom than by human law. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
W.E.B. Du Bois, The Souls of Black Folk
SUNDAY W.E.B. Du Bois
When you harvest your land’s produce, you must not harvest all the way to the edge of your field; and don’t gather up every remaining bit of your harvest. Also do not pick your vineyard clean or gather up all the grapes that have fallen there. Leave these items for the poor and the immigrant; I am the LORD your God.
- Leviticus 19:9-10
(Common English Bible translation)
Only by a union of intelligence and sympathy across the color-line in this critical period of the Republic shall justice and right triumph.
-W.E.B. Du Bois
prayer
Quiet our anxious spirits, Lord, and help us enjoy the peace you give which the world cannot take away. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
When you harvest your land’s produce, you must not harvest all the way to the edge of your field; and don’t gather up every remaining bit of your harvest. Also do not pick your vineyard clean or gather up all the grapes that have fallen there. Leave these items for the poor and the immigrant; I am the LORD your God.
- Leviticus 19:9-10
(Common English Bible translation)
Only by a union of intelligence and sympathy across the color-line in this critical period of the Republic shall justice and right triumph.
-W.E.B. Du Bois
prayer
Quiet our anxious spirits, Lord, and help us enjoy the peace you give which the world cannot take away. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Dorothy Day
SATURDAY Dorothy Day
There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.
- Galatians 3:28
The only conclusion I have ever been able to reach is that we must pray God to increase our faith, a faith without which one cannot love or hope. 'Lord believe, help though my unbelief.'
-Dorothy Day
prayer
God, may we trust you for all our needs. Help us to be obedient to your teachings and to give thanks for our blessings. Amen.
There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.
- Galatians 3:28
The only conclusion I have ever been able to reach is that we must pray God to increase our faith, a faith without which one cannot love or hope. 'Lord believe, help though my unbelief.'
-Dorothy Day
prayer
God, may we trust you for all our needs. Help us to be obedient to your teachings and to give thanks for our blessings. Amen.
Eleanor Roosevelt
FRIDAY Eleanor Roosevelt
And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.
- 1 Corinthians 13:13
Justice cannot be for one side alone, but must be for both.
-Eleanor Roosevelt
prayer
God, we pray for children in foster care, provide them loving families who care for them. May your church also be a family for children who lack stability. Amen.
And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.
- 1 Corinthians 13:13
Justice cannot be for one side alone, but must be for both.
-Eleanor Roosevelt
prayer
God, we pray for children in foster care, provide them loving families who care for them. May your church also be a family for children who lack stability. Amen.
Flannery O'Connor - American writer and essayist
THURSDAY Flannery O'Connor
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
The truth does not change according to our ability to stomach it.
- Flannery O'Connor
prayer
Lord, we continue to pray for the conflict Syria. Bless all who are working hard for peace, and give them strength. Amen
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
The truth does not change according to our ability to stomach it.
- Flannery O'Connor
prayer
Lord, we continue to pray for the conflict Syria. Bless all who are working hard for peace, and give them strength. Amen
Desmond Tutu - South African cleric and activist
TUESDAY Desmond Tutu
When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbours, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
- Luke 14:12-14
I don't preach a social gospel; I preach the gospel, period. The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is concerned with the whole person. When people were hungry, Jesus didn't say, 'Now is that political or social?' He said,'I feed you.' Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.
-Desmond Tutu
prayer
God, deliver us from the vengeance of our enemies. May we trust you for all our needs. Help us to be obedient to your teachings and to give thanks for our blessings. Amen.
When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbours, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
- Luke 14:12-14
I don't preach a social gospel; I preach the gospel, period. The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is concerned with the whole person. When people were hungry, Jesus didn't say, 'Now is that political or social?' He said,'I feed you.' Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.
-Desmond Tutu
prayer
God, deliver us from the vengeance of our enemies. May we trust you for all our needs. Help us to be obedient to your teachings and to give thanks for our blessings. Amen.
Paul Tillich
MONDAY Paul Tillich
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.
- Psalm 31:24
The first duty of love is to listen.
-Paul Tillich
prayer
We pray for the people of Syria and all those suffering through political and militarized conflict. May justice be met and peace prusued by all people. Amen.
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.
- Psalm 31:24
The first duty of love is to listen.
-Paul Tillich
prayer
We pray for the people of Syria and all those suffering through political and militarized conflict. May justice be met and peace prusued by all people. Amen.
Dorothy Day
SUNDAY - Dorothy Day
After three days [his parents] found [Jesus] in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.
- Luke 2:46
An individual can march for peace or vote for peace and can have, perhaps, some small influence on global concerns. But the same individual is a giant in the eyes of a child at home. If peace is to be built, it must start with the individual. It is built brick by brick.
-Dorothy Day
prayer
Almighty comforter, we deeply desire for your kingdom to come and your will to be done. We ask that you empower and strengthen us to break down systems of injustice and poverty in the world. Give us, your servants, tireless vigor as we follow your will. Amen.
After three days [his parents] found [Jesus] in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.
- Luke 2:46
An individual can march for peace or vote for peace and can have, perhaps, some small influence on global concerns. But the same individual is a giant in the eyes of a child at home. If peace is to be built, it must start with the individual. It is built brick by brick.
-Dorothy Day
prayer
Almighty comforter, we deeply desire for your kingdom to come and your will to be done. We ask that you empower and strengthen us to break down systems of injustice and poverty in the world. Give us, your servants, tireless vigor as we follow your will. Amen.
Flannery O'Connor, from Mystery and Manners: Occasional Prose
SATURDAY Flannery O'Connor
"But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothing things that are, so that no one might boast in the presence of God."
- 1 Corinthians 1:27-29
“When there is a tendency to compartmentalize the spiritual and make it resident in a certain type of life only, the spiritual is apt gradually to be lost.”
- Flannery O'Connor, from Mystery and Manners: Occasional Prose
God, we pray for each state's legislature, that they make just and humane choices to help underrepresented communities. We pray that their decisions be sincerely driven by the needs of those they serve, not by greed. Amen.
"But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothing things that are, so that no one might boast in the presence of God."
- 1 Corinthians 1:27-29
“When there is a tendency to compartmentalize the spiritual and make it resident in a certain type of life only, the spiritual is apt gradually to be lost.”
- Flannery O'Connor, from Mystery and Manners: Occasional Prose
God, we pray for each state's legislature, that they make just and humane choices to help underrepresented communities. We pray that their decisions be sincerely driven by the needs of those they serve, not by greed. Amen.
Elie Wiesel - Author
FRIDAY Elie Wiesel
Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue, so that you may live and occupy the land that the Lord your God is giving you.
- Deuteronomy 16:20
Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.
-Elie Wiesel
prayer
Creator of all people, help us to see your image in every person we meet, to see the value that you have placed in each individual. Remind us that every man, woman, or child whom we encounter is someone for whom Christ died. And let us see them through your eyes. Amen.
Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue, so that you may live and occupy the land that the Lord your God is giving you.
- Deuteronomy 16:20
Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.
-Elie Wiesel
prayer
Creator of all people, help us to see your image in every person we meet, to see the value that you have placed in each individual. Remind us that every man, woman, or child whom we encounter is someone for whom Christ died. And let us see them through your eyes. Amen.
Buchenwald, 1945. Wiesel is in the second row from the bottom, seventh from the left.
Wendell Berry
THURSDAY Wendell Berry
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because [the Lord] has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. [The Lord] has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free.
- Luke 4:18
As soon as the generals and the politicos can predict the motion of your mind, lose it. Leave it as a sign to mark the false trail, the way you didn't go. Be like the fox who makes more tracks than necessary, some in the wrong direction. Practice resurrection.
-Wendell Berry
prayer
Lord God, we rejoice in your resurrection and in your promise to return. Help us live today as people who await the fulfillment of your kingdom. Bend our knees to the hard work of prayer, worship, repentance, and intercession. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
WENDEL'S OBSERVATION: “Don't own so much clutter that you will be relieved to see your house catch fire.”
― Wendell Berry, Farming: a hand book
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because [the Lord] has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. [The Lord] has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free.
- Luke 4:18
As soon as the generals and the politicos can predict the motion of your mind, lose it. Leave it as a sign to mark the false trail, the way you didn't go. Be like the fox who makes more tracks than necessary, some in the wrong direction. Practice resurrection.
-Wendell Berry
prayer
Lord God, we rejoice in your resurrection and in your promise to return. Help us live today as people who await the fulfillment of your kingdom. Bend our knees to the hard work of prayer, worship, repentance, and intercession. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
WENDEL'S OBSERVATION: “Don't own so much clutter that you will be relieved to see your house catch fire.”
― Wendell Berry, Farming: a hand book
Dag Hammarskjold- U.N. Secretary General
WEDNESDAY Dag Hammarskjold
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
- Psalm 32:1-2
In our era, the road to holiness necessarily passes through the world of action.
-Dag Hammarskjold
prayer
Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind. Spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies. Bless us if it may be in all our innocent endeavors; if it may not, give us strength to encounter that which is to come, that we may be brave in peril, constant in tribulation, temperate in wrath. And in all changes of fortune and down to the gates of death, loyal and loving to one another.
- Robert Louis Stevenson
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
- Psalm 32:1-2
In our era, the road to holiness necessarily passes through the world of action.
-Dag Hammarskjold
prayer
Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind. Spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies. Bless us if it may be in all our innocent endeavors; if it may not, give us strength to encounter that which is to come, that we may be brave in peril, constant in tribulation, temperate in wrath. And in all changes of fortune and down to the gates of death, loyal and loving to one another.
- Robert Louis Stevenson
John Howard Yoder
TUESDAY John Howard Yoder
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm and a shade from the heat.
- Isaiah 25:4
The work of God is the calling of a people, whether in the Old Covenant or the New. The church is then not simply the bearer of the message of reconciliation, in the way a newspaper or a telephone company can bear any message with which it is entrusted. Nor is the church simply the result of a message, as an alumni association is the product of a school or the crowds in a theater are the product of the reputation of the film. That men and women are called together to a new social wholeness is itself the work of God, which gives meaning to history.
-John Howard Yoder
prayer
I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord; no tender voice like thine can peace afford. I need thee, O I need thee; every hour I need thee. O bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee.
- From the hymn 'I Need Thee Every Hour' by Annie Hawks
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm and a shade from the heat.
- Isaiah 25:4
The work of God is the calling of a people, whether in the Old Covenant or the New. The church is then not simply the bearer of the message of reconciliation, in the way a newspaper or a telephone company can bear any message with which it is entrusted. Nor is the church simply the result of a message, as an alumni association is the product of a school or the crowds in a theater are the product of the reputation of the film. That men and women are called together to a new social wholeness is itself the work of God, which gives meaning to history.
-John Howard Yoder
prayer
I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord; no tender voice like thine can peace afford. I need thee, O I need thee; every hour I need thee. O bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee.
- From the hymn 'I Need Thee Every Hour' by Annie Hawks
William Faulkner
MONDAY William Faulkner
But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
- Amos 5:24
We must be free not because we claim freedom but because we practice it.
"We must be free not because we claim freedom, but because we practice it.” -William Faulkner
prayer
Lord, we pray for strength and trust in times of trouble. Equip us to be your hands and feet in the world. May we bring good news to all we meet this day, with our words and with our lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
- Amos 5:24
We must be free not because we claim freedom but because we practice it.
"We must be free not because we claim freedom, but because we practice it.” -William Faulkner
prayer
Lord, we pray for strength and trust in times of trouble. Equip us to be your hands and feet in the world. May we bring good news to all we meet this day, with our words and with our lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Irenaeus of Lyon
SUNDAY Irenaeus of Lyon
I know that the Lord maintains the cause of the needy, and executes justice for the poor.
- Psalm 140:12
The church has been planted as a paradise in this world.
"“Error never shows itself in its naked reality, in order not to be discovered. On the contrary, it dresses elegantly, "
-Irenaeus of Lyon
prayer
Almighty God, all the riches of the world are made by you for our common use, and by nature not one of them belongs to one human being more than to another; direct us, we pray, that all things may serve all people. Amen.
- Adapted from a prayer of St. Anselm of Canterbury
I know that the Lord maintains the cause of the needy, and executes justice for the poor.
- Psalm 140:12
The church has been planted as a paradise in this world.
"“Error never shows itself in its naked reality, in order not to be discovered. On the contrary, it dresses elegantly, "
-Irenaeus of Lyon
prayer
Almighty God, all the riches of the world are made by you for our common use, and by nature not one of them belongs to one human being more than to another; direct us, we pray, that all things may serve all people. Amen.
- Adapted from a prayer of St. Anselm of Canterbury
Augustine of Hippo, The Confessions of Saint Augustine
SATURDAY Augustine
You shall not watch your neighbour’s ox or sheep straying away and ignore them; you shall take them back to their owner. If the owner does not reside near you or you do not know who the owner is, you shall bring it to your own house, and it shall remain with you until the owner claims it; then you shall return it.
- Numbers 22:1-2
The way to Christ is first through humility, second through humility, third through humility. If humility does not precede and accompany and follow every good work we do, if it is not before us to focus on, if it is not beside us to lean upon, if it is not behind us to fence us in, pride will wrench from our hand any good deed we do at the very moment we do it.
-Augustine "“You are my Lord, because You have no need of my goodness.”
prayer
Lord God, time and again you provide for us with your near, ready, and sure love. Give us eyes to recognize that all goodness and joy are from your hand, that we may praise you with our lives, forever and ever. Amen.
- Common Prayer
You shall not watch your neighbour’s ox or sheep straying away and ignore them; you shall take them back to their owner. If the owner does not reside near you or you do not know who the owner is, you shall bring it to your own house, and it shall remain with you until the owner claims it; then you shall return it.
- Numbers 22:1-2
The way to Christ is first through humility, second through humility, third through humility. If humility does not precede and accompany and follow every good work we do, if it is not before us to focus on, if it is not beside us to lean upon, if it is not behind us to fence us in, pride will wrench from our hand any good deed we do at the very moment we do it.
-Augustine "“You are my Lord, because You have no need of my goodness.”
prayer
Lord God, time and again you provide for us with your near, ready, and sure love. Give us eyes to recognize that all goodness and joy are from your hand, that we may praise you with our lives, forever and ever. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Soren Kierkegaard Danish Theology who changed the nature of theology
FRIDAY Soren Kierkegaard
While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”
- Luke 11:27-28
The first form of rulers in the world were the tyrants, the last will be the martyrs. Between a tyrant and a martyr there is of course an enormous difference, although they both have one thing in common: the power to compel. The tyrant, himself ambitious to dominate, compels people through his power; the martyr, himself unconditionally obedient to God, compels others through his suffering. The tyrant dies and his rule is over; the martyr dies and his rule begins.
“People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.” -Soren Kierkegaard
prayer
Thank you, Lord, for your mercy and forgiveness. Help us to hear your word and to follow you today. Numb our ears to the persistent call of idols like vanity, consumerism, power, and pride. Enable us to lead lives tempered by the awareness of others’ needs and propelled by your love. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
*** Footnote: I wrote many papers on S.K. (as he is fondly known). He became a major influence on my religious thinking and spiritual life. If you seek change and a spiritual quest for the Universal Father, S.K. may give you words which will bring you closer to your Heavenly Father.
While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”
- Luke 11:27-28
The first form of rulers in the world were the tyrants, the last will be the martyrs. Between a tyrant and a martyr there is of course an enormous difference, although they both have one thing in common: the power to compel. The tyrant, himself ambitious to dominate, compels people through his power; the martyr, himself unconditionally obedient to God, compels others through his suffering. The tyrant dies and his rule is over; the martyr dies and his rule begins.
“People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.” -Soren Kierkegaard
prayer
Thank you, Lord, for your mercy and forgiveness. Help us to hear your word and to follow you today. Numb our ears to the persistent call of idols like vanity, consumerism, power, and pride. Enable us to lead lives tempered by the awareness of others’ needs and propelled by your love. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
*** Footnote: I wrote many papers on S.K. (as he is fondly known). He became a major influence on my religious thinking and spiritual life. If you seek change and a spiritual quest for the Universal Father, S.K. may give you words which will bring you closer to your Heavenly Father.
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Corrie ten Boom, Clippings from My Notebook
THURSDAY Corrie Ten Boom
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
- Matthew 11:29
Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.
- Corrie Ten Boom
prayer
Most Holy Lord, You are ever present and ever merciful for people on the move. We thank you for the blessings of our own immigrant heritage. We thank you for the privilege of participating in the government of this great country. Help us as people of faith call boldly for justice in our immigration laws. May our call be heard and echoed by our legislators and our president. Amen.
- A prayer from Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
- Matthew 11:29
Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.
- Corrie Ten Boom
prayer
Most Holy Lord, You are ever present and ever merciful for people on the move. We thank you for the blessings of our own immigrant heritage. We thank you for the privilege of participating in the government of this great country. Help us as people of faith call boldly for justice in our immigration laws. May our call be heard and echoed by our legislators and our president. Amen.
- A prayer from Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services
Fannie Lou Hamer
WEDNESDAY Fannie Lou Hamer
But [Jesus] said to them, 'The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.'
- Luke 22:25-26
Christianity is being concerned about your fellow man, not building a million-dollar church while people are starving right around the corner. Christ was a revolutionary person, out there where it was happening. That's what God is all about, and that's where I get my strength.
-Fannie Lou Hamer
prayer
In a world broken by selfishness, violence, and indifference, we admit feeling powerless to make a change. However, You have promised that all things are possible through your Spirit. Fill us with Hope, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable injustice. Amen.
But [Jesus] said to them, 'The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.'
- Luke 22:25-26
Christianity is being concerned about your fellow man, not building a million-dollar church while people are starving right around the corner. Christ was a revolutionary person, out there where it was happening. That's what God is all about, and that's where I get my strength.
-Fannie Lou Hamer
prayer
In a world broken by selfishness, violence, and indifference, we admit feeling powerless to make a change. However, You have promised that all things are possible through your Spirit. Fill us with Hope, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable injustice. Amen.
Henri J.M. Nouwen, Out of Solitude: Three Meditations on the Christian Life
MONDAY Henri J.M. Nouwen
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:16-17
Dear Lord, I will remain restless, tense, and dissatisfied until I can be totally at peace in your house. There is no certainty that my life will be any easier in the years ahead, or that my heart will be any calmer. But there is the certainty that you are waiting for me and will welcome me home when I have persevered in my long journey to your house.
-Henri J.M. Nouwen
prayer
Dear Lord, we are often divided, unloving and inclined to misunderstanding. Make us instead united, loving, and open to learning. May your spirit be in us. Amen
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:16-17
Dear Lord, I will remain restless, tense, and dissatisfied until I can be totally at peace in your house. There is no certainty that my life will be any easier in the years ahead, or that my heart will be any calmer. But there is the certainty that you are waiting for me and will welcome me home when I have persevered in my long journey to your house.
-Henri J.M. Nouwen
prayer
Dear Lord, we are often divided, unloving and inclined to misunderstanding. Make us instead united, loving, and open to learning. May your spirit be in us. Amen
John Wesley
SUNDAY John Wesley
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
One of the principle rules of religion is to lose no occasion of serving God. And since he is invisible to our eyes, we are to serve him in our neighbor; which he receives as if done to himself in person, standing visibly before us.
-John Wesley
prayer
God, we pray for our governing officials making important decisions this week that will affect the future of our country. May they take into account the least of these in their choices. We pray that your kindgom would come and your will would be done here on earth as it is heaven. Ame
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
One of the principle rules of religion is to lose no occasion of serving God. And since he is invisible to our eyes, we are to serve him in our neighbor; which he receives as if done to himself in person, standing visibly before us.
-John Wesley
prayer
God, we pray for our governing officials making important decisions this week that will affect the future of our country. May they take into account the least of these in their choices. We pray that your kindgom would come and your will would be done here on earth as it is heaven. Ame
Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God
Saturday Brother Lawrence
So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 voice of the day
[People] invent means and methods of coming at God’s love, they learn rules and set up devices to remind them of that love, and it seems like a world of trouble to bring oneself into the consciousness of God’s presence. Yet it might be so simple. Is it not quicker and easier just to do our common business wholly for the love of him?
-Brother Lawrence
prayer
Though you are worthy of trumpets and the song of angels, you graciously receive our daily prayers of whispered words and mundane habits. Enable us, Lord, to love you with all that we are and in all that we do. Teach us how we might truly pray without ceasing. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 voice of the day
[People] invent means and methods of coming at God’s love, they learn rules and set up devices to remind them of that love, and it seems like a world of trouble to bring oneself into the consciousness of God’s presence. Yet it might be so simple. Is it not quicker and easier just to do our common business wholly for the love of him?
-Brother Lawrence
prayer
Though you are worthy of trumpets and the song of angels, you graciously receive our daily prayers of whispered words and mundane habits. Enable us, Lord, to love you with all that we are and in all that we do. Teach us how we might truly pray without ceasing. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Anne Frank
Friday
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Leonard Cohen
Thursday
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
- Isaiah 43:2-3
"If you don’t become the ocean, you’ll be seasick every day."
- Leonard Cohen
May the faith that gives us hope, the love that shows the way, and the peace that cheers the heart be ours, this day and every day. Amen.
from Prayers of Comfort and Hope
God of all creation, help me to be patient with myself, that I allow myself to be present in each moment. Teach me patience in such a way that all my worries and fears be not hindrances, but opportunities to trust you more. Amen.
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
- Isaiah 43:2-3
"If you don’t become the ocean, you’ll be seasick every day."
- Leonard Cohen
May the faith that gives us hope, the love that shows the way, and the peace that cheers the heart be ours, this day and every day. Amen.
from Prayers of Comfort and Hope
God of all creation, help me to be patient with myself, that I allow myself to be present in each moment. Teach me patience in such a way that all my worries and fears be not hindrances, but opportunities to trust you more. Amen.
Saint Benedict of Nursia - The Benedictin Monastic
Wednesday
When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.
- Proverbs 11:2
The first step of humility is to cherish at all times the sense of awe with which we should turn to God.
-Saint Benedict of Nursia
prayer
Lord, we know that you will come again in glory to raise the living and the dead. Resurrect us now from the death of comfort, complacency, sloth, and shallowness that we might witness to your love in life and death. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.
- Proverbs 11:2
The first step of humility is to cherish at all times the sense of awe with which we should turn to God.
-Saint Benedict of Nursia
prayer
Lord, we know that you will come again in glory to raise the living and the dead. Resurrect us now from the death of comfort, complacency, sloth, and shallowness that we might witness to your love in life and death. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
Scott Bader-Saye
Tuesday Scott Bader-Saye
Then God said, 'Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth,and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.'
- Genesis 1:26
voice of the day
Following Jesus will mean surrendering the power that masquerades as security in order to love the neighbor and welcome the stranger. It will mean avoiding the safe path in order to pursue the good. But in a culture of fear, we find such risks all the more difficult since our natural inclinations lead us to close in on ourselves when we face danger. How can we maintain the posture of the open hand toward a world that scares us?
-Scott Bader-Saye
prayer
Holy God, we pray to live in such a way that others will know they are always welcomed into the body of Christ. May we be a people who reach upward to you for strength and outward to those who don't yet know you. Amen
Then God said, 'Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth,and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.'
- Genesis 1:26
voice of the day
Following Jesus will mean surrendering the power that masquerades as security in order to love the neighbor and welcome the stranger. It will mean avoiding the safe path in order to pursue the good. But in a culture of fear, we find such risks all the more difficult since our natural inclinations lead us to close in on ourselves when we face danger. How can we maintain the posture of the open hand toward a world that scares us?
-Scott Bader-Saye
prayer
Holy God, we pray to live in such a way that others will know they are always welcomed into the body of Christ. May we be a people who reach upward to you for strength and outward to those who don't yet know you. Amen
Mark L. Taylor
MONDAY
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
- Hebrews 13:2
Jesus died the victim of executioners with imperial power. There is an inescapable opposition between the life and death of Jesus, and imperial power. To embrace and love the executed God is to be in resistance to empire. To be a follower of the executed Jesus of Nazareth is to venture down a road without having a place in the system of imperial control.
-Mark L. Taylor
God of healing, we pray for all who are sick and suffering from disease, affliction, and addiction — especially during this intense flu season. Bring comfort and healing into their lives, and may their health be restored. Amen.
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
- Hebrews 13:2
Jesus died the victim of executioners with imperial power. There is an inescapable opposition between the life and death of Jesus, and imperial power. To embrace and love the executed God is to be in resistance to empire. To be a follower of the executed Jesus of Nazareth is to venture down a road without having a place in the system of imperial control.
-Mark L. Taylor
God of healing, we pray for all who are sick and suffering from disease, affliction, and addiction — especially during this intense flu season. Bring comfort and healing into their lives, and may their health be restored. Amen.
Rowan Williams Archbishop of Canterbury
SUNDAY Rowan Williams Archbishop of Canterbury
"Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers."
- Romans 12:11-13
“Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.”
- Rowan Williams Archbishop of Canterbury
God, we pray for our brothers and sisters in the Philippines who were affected by a landslide last week. Comfort all families, give strength to the rescue workers, and grant peace to the survivors. Amen.
"Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers."
- Romans 12:11-13
“Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience.”
- Rowan Williams Archbishop of Canterbury
God, we pray for our brothers and sisters in the Philippines who were affected by a landslide last week. Comfort all families, give strength to the rescue workers, and grant peace to the survivors. Amen.
Kelly James Clark
SATURDAY Kelly James Clark
"I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
- Ephesians 4:1-3
"My life is not simply a meaningless conglomeration of serendipitous events and unremarkable happenstance. Rather, it is a series of divine appointments with the goal of shaping my character."
- Kelly James Clark
God, thank you for sending your son into this world, to us a broken people, held captive by sin. Help us to trust in Jesus Christ alone as our savior, and help us to spread your love in our actions. Amen.
"I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
- Ephesians 4:1-3
"My life is not simply a meaningless conglomeration of serendipitous events and unremarkable happenstance. Rather, it is a series of divine appointments with the goal of shaping my character."
- Kelly James Clark
God, thank you for sending your son into this world, to us a broken people, held captive by sin. Help us to trust in Jesus Christ alone as our savior, and help us to spread your love in our actions. Amen.
G.K. Chesterton
FRIDAY G.K. Chesterton
May we understand [how] to walk in the knowledge of the Lord, as in the early dawn when his going forth is shown beyond doubt; may he come to us as the rain, as the spring rain that waters the earth. (The Antioch Bible)
- Hosea 6:3
The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected.
-G.K. Chesterton
prayer
Lord, free us from our self-deception and attune our hearts to your Spirit, that we might remember how you humbled yourself, and learn to serve one another, whatever our disagreements. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
May we understand [how] to walk in the knowledge of the Lord, as in the early dawn when his going forth is shown beyond doubt; may he come to us as the rain, as the spring rain that waters the earth. (The Antioch Bible)
- Hosea 6:3
The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected.
-G.K. Chesterton
prayer
Lord, free us from our self-deception and attune our hearts to your Spirit, that we might remember how you humbled yourself, and learn to serve one another, whatever our disagreements. Amen.
- From Common Prayer
C.S Lewis
THURSDAY C.S Lewis
The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:17
The rule for us all is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did. As soon as we do this we find one of the great secrets. When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him [or her]."
- C.S Lewis
Lord, you have shown us what love looks like. Help us through acts of forgiveness and reconciliation to so love one another that our neighbors know we are your disciples and know that to be good news. Amen.
From Common Prayer
The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:17
The rule for us all is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did. As soon as we do this we find one of the great secrets. When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him [or her]."
- C.S Lewis
Lord, you have shown us what love looks like. Help us through acts of forgiveness and reconciliation to so love one another that our neighbors know we are your disciples and know that to be good news. Amen.
From Common Prayer
Pope Francis
1/29/14 Pope Francis
For [the LORD] did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; [God] did not hide [God's] face from me, but heard when I cried to [God].
- Psalm 22:24
We live in the most unequal part of the world, which has grown the most, yet reduced misery the least. The unjust distribution of goods persists, creating a situation of social sin that cries out to Heaven and limits the possibilities of a fuller life for so many of our brothers.
-Pope Francis
prayer
In the tender compassion of our Lord the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.
- From the Canticle of Zechariah
For [the LORD] did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; [God] did not hide [God's] face from me, but heard when I cried to [God].
- Psalm 22:24
We live in the most unequal part of the world, which has grown the most, yet reduced misery the least. The unjust distribution of goods persists, creating a situation of social sin that cries out to Heaven and limits the possibilities of a fuller life for so many of our brothers.
-Pope Francis
prayer
In the tender compassion of our Lord the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.
- From the Canticle of Zechariah
Emily Dickinson
1/28/14 Emily Dickinson
"I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith."
- Philippians 1:23-24
“How happy is the little stone / That rambles in the road alone, / And doesn't care about careers, / And exigencies never fears; / Whose coat of elemental brown / A passing universe put on; / And independent as the sun, / Associates or glows alone, / Fulfilling absolute decree / In casual simplicity."
- Emily Dickenson
O God, to those who have hunger, give bread, and to us who have bread, give the hunger for justice. Amen
"I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith."
- Philippians 1:23-24
“How happy is the little stone / That rambles in the road alone, / And doesn't care about careers, / And exigencies never fears; / Whose coat of elemental brown / A passing universe put on; / And independent as the sun, / Associates or glows alone, / Fulfilling absolute decree / In casual simplicity."
- Emily Dickenson
O God, to those who have hunger, give bread, and to us who have bread, give the hunger for justice. Amen
Robert James Brown
1/27/14 Robert James Brown
For see! I create a new heaven and a new earth; the former things will not be remembered, they will not come to mind. (The Antioch Bible)
- Isaiah 65:17
We have got some very big problems confronting us and let us not make any mistake about it, human history in the future is fraught with tragedy ... It's only through people making a stand against that tragedy and being doggedly optimistic that we are going to win through. If you look at the plight of the human race it could well tip you into despair, so you have to be very strong.
-Robert James Brown
prayer
God, we pray for our legislators, our president, our judges, and all those who advise them. Give them wisdom and strength to lead, and courage to seek justice for the poor and marginalized. Amen.
For see! I create a new heaven and a new earth; the former things will not be remembered, they will not come to mind. (The Antioch Bible)
- Isaiah 65:17
We have got some very big problems confronting us and let us not make any mistake about it, human history in the future is fraught with tragedy ... It's only through people making a stand against that tragedy and being doggedly optimistic that we are going to win through. If you look at the plight of the human race it could well tip you into despair, so you have to be very strong.
-Robert James Brown
prayer
God, we pray for our legislators, our president, our judges, and all those who advise them. Give them wisdom and strength to lead, and courage to seek justice for the poor and marginalized. Amen.
Paulo Freire
1/26/14 Paulo Freire
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
- Psalm 130:3-4
To speak a true word is to transform the world.
-Paulo Freire
prayer
Lord most high, do not allow us to harden ourselves to your faithfulness! Continually awaken us from the sleep of indifference and the bad dreams of our pious and impious passions and desires! Do not tire of continually guiding us back onto your path! Amen.
- Adapted from a prayer by Karl Barth
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
- Psalm 130:3-4
To speak a true word is to transform the world.
-Paulo Freire
prayer
Lord most high, do not allow us to harden ourselves to your faithfulness! Continually awaken us from the sleep of indifference and the bad dreams of our pious and impious passions and desires! Do not tire of continually guiding us back onto your path! Amen.
- Adapted from a prayer by Karl Barth
Rachel Naomi Remen M. D.
1/25/14 Rachel Naomi Remen
"Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly … Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am."
- Isaiah 58:7-9
"In the silence of listening, you can know yourself in everyone, the unseen singing softly to itself and to you."
- Rachel Naomi Remen
Everlasting God, we pray today for those around us who do not know or understand your gift of grace. Give them an unshakable curiosity about you, that they would begin to seek you more and more each day. Amen.
"Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly … Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am."
- Isaiah 58:7-9
"In the silence of listening, you can know yourself in everyone, the unseen singing softly to itself and to you."
- Rachel Naomi Remen
Everlasting God, we pray today for those around us who do not know or understand your gift of grace. Give them an unshakable curiosity about you, that they would begin to seek you more and more each day. Amen.
J.R.R. Tolkien Author: The Hobbit
1/23/14 J.R.R. Tolkien
"Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, but you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture? When you drink of clear water, must you foul the rest with your feet?"
- Ezekiel 34:18
"It's a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."
- Bilbo, from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring
God, you created the seas, the rivers, lakes, and oceans. It is from these waters that we have learned to find life and sustenance. Teach us how to care for the water in our world, how to keep it clean for future generations, and cleanse it for those who need it in the present. Amen.
J.R.R. Tolkien
"Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, but you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture? When you drink of clear water, must you foul the rest with your feet?"
- Ezekiel 34:18
"It's a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."
- Bilbo, from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring
God, you created the seas, the rivers, lakes, and oceans. It is from these waters that we have learned to find life and sustenance. Teach us how to care for the water in our world, how to keep it clean for future generations, and cleanse it for those who need it in the present. Amen.
J.R.R. Tolkien
Evelyn Underhill
1/22/14 Evelyn Underhill
Then God said, 'Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.'
- Genesis 1:26
Charity is the live wire along which the power of God, indwelling our finite spirits, can and does act on other souls and other things, rescuing, healing, giving support and light. Such secret intercessory prayer ought to penetrate and accompany all our active work. It is the supreme expression of the spiritual life on earth.It moves from God to others through us, because we have ceased to be self-centered units, but are woven into the great fabric of praying souls, the 'mystical body' through which the work of Christ on earth goes on being done.
-Evelyn Underhill
prayer
In all of our interactions: Teach us humility, Lord, that we may consider others better than ourselves. Teach us grace, Lord, that we may offer to others the same gift your offered us. Teach us patience, Lord, that we might be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Teach us to speak truth in love, Lord. All for your glory, and that your kingdom might be advanced. Amen.
All scripture passages are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. Words or phrases in [brackets] may be paraphrased for contextual clarity or inclusivity.
Seeking more spiritual fulfillment?
Then God said, 'Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.'
- Genesis 1:26
Charity is the live wire along which the power of God, indwelling our finite spirits, can and does act on other souls and other things, rescuing, healing, giving support and light. Such secret intercessory prayer ought to penetrate and accompany all our active work. It is the supreme expression of the spiritual life on earth.It moves from God to others through us, because we have ceased to be self-centered units, but are woven into the great fabric of praying souls, the 'mystical body' through which the work of Christ on earth goes on being done.
-Evelyn Underhill
prayer
In all of our interactions: Teach us humility, Lord, that we may consider others better than ourselves. Teach us grace, Lord, that we may offer to others the same gift your offered us. Teach us patience, Lord, that we might be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Teach us to speak truth in love, Lord. All for your glory, and that your kingdom might be advanced. Amen.
All scripture passages are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. Words or phrases in [brackets] may be paraphrased for contextual clarity or inclusivity.
Seeking more spiritual fulfillment?
Henri Nouwen
1/21/14 Henri Nouwen
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
Dear Lord, I will remain restless, tense and dissatisfied until I can be totally at peace in your house. There is no certainty that my life will be any easier in the years ahead, or that my heart will be any calmer. But there is the certainty that you are waiting for me and will welcome me home when I have persevered in my long journey to your house.
-Henri Nouwen
prayer
Lord, meet us wherever goods are held in common for love and justice, wherever bread is broken for worship and praise, and wherever life witnesses to repentance and reconciliation. Amen.
- Common Prayer
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:9-10
Dear Lord, I will remain restless, tense and dissatisfied until I can be totally at peace in your house. There is no certainty that my life will be any easier in the years ahead, or that my heart will be any calmer. But there is the certainty that you are waiting for me and will welcome me home when I have persevered in my long journey to your house.
-Henri Nouwen
prayer
Lord, meet us wherever goods are held in common for love and justice, wherever bread is broken for worship and praise, and wherever life witnesses to repentance and reconciliation. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Francis of Assisi
1/22/14 Francis of Assisi
When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.
- Proverbs 11:2
Above all the graces and gifts of the Holy Spirit, which Christ grants to His friends, is that of self-conquest and of willingly bearing sufferings, injuries and reproaches and discomforts for the love of Christ. If we shall bear all these things patiently and with cheerfulness, thinking on the suffering of Christ the blessed, which we ought to bear patiently for His love, O Brother Leo, write that here and in this is perfect joy.
-Francis of Assisi
prayer
God, give us discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that instead we may live deep within our hearts. Grant us anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may wish for justice, freedom, and peace. Bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in the world, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.
- Common Prayer
When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.
- Proverbs 11:2
Above all the graces and gifts of the Holy Spirit, which Christ grants to His friends, is that of self-conquest and of willingly bearing sufferings, injuries and reproaches and discomforts for the love of Christ. If we shall bear all these things patiently and with cheerfulness, thinking on the suffering of Christ the blessed, which we ought to bear patiently for His love, O Brother Leo, write that here and in this is perfect joy.
-Francis of Assisi
prayer
God, give us discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that instead we may live deep within our hearts. Grant us anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may wish for justice, freedom, and peace. Bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in the world, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Margaret Fuller
1/21/14 Margaret Fuller
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
- John 1:1-2
"Only the dreamer shall understand realities, though, in truth, his dreaming must not be out of proportion to his waking!"
- Margaret Fuller
prayer
We pray that we may strive to give birth to the living Word of God in our world, through the power of the Holy Spirit. May our daily spiritual renewal lead us also to daily physical renewal as we trust and hope in our life-giving Creator who sent Jesus to bring us into God's eternal presence. Amen.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
- John 1:1-2
"Only the dreamer shall understand realities, though, in truth, his dreaming must not be out of proportion to his waking!"
- Margaret Fuller
prayer
We pray that we may strive to give birth to the living Word of God in our world, through the power of the Holy Spirit. May our daily spiritual renewal lead us also to daily physical renewal as we trust and hope in our life-giving Creator who sent Jesus to bring us into God's eternal presence. Amen.
Michelle A. Gonzalez
1/20/14 Michelle A. Gonzalez
Then God said, "Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth."
- Genesis 1:26
"When our interior image of God and our exterior references to God are exclusively male and 'father,' we reinforce patriarchal constructions of the image of God that are based on a hierarchy that values men at the expense of women."
- Michelle A. Gonzalez
prayer
God of all, strengthen us in our Christian identity, so that we may also rejoice in the presence of your Spirit working in those around us. Amen.
Then God said, "Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth."
- Genesis 1:26
"When our interior image of God and our exterior references to God are exclusively male and 'father,' we reinforce patriarchal constructions of the image of God that are based on a hierarchy that values men at the expense of women."
- Michelle A. Gonzalez
prayer
God of all, strengthen us in our Christian identity, so that we may also rejoice in the presence of your Spirit working in those around us. Amen.
Wendell Berry
1/19/14 Wendell Berry
"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because [God] has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. [God] has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
- Luke 4:18-19
“Sabbath observance invites us to stop. It invites us to rest. It asks us to notice that while we rest, the world continues without our help. It invites us to delight in the world’s beauty and abundance.”
- Wendell Berry
God of all creation, awake us to the beauty around us, that we may see glimpses of you both in nature and in our neighbor. Amen.
"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because [God] has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. [God] has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
- Luke 4:18-19
“Sabbath observance invites us to stop. It invites us to rest. It asks us to notice that while we rest, the world continues without our help. It invites us to delight in the world’s beauty and abundance.”
- Wendell Berry
God of all creation, awake us to the beauty around us, that we may see glimpses of you both in nature and in our neighbor. Amen.
ELIE WIESEL
1/18/14 Elie Wiesel
The wolf shall live with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them.
- Isaiah 11:6
The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.
- Elie Wiesel
Lord, when we weary of the journey, strengthen us by your Spirit to imagine new heavens and a new earth. Amen.
-From Common Prayer
The wolf shall live with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them.
- Isaiah 11:6
The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.
- Elie Wiesel
Lord, when we weary of the journey, strengthen us by your Spirit to imagine new heavens and a new earth. Amen.
-From Common Prayer
Phillip Yancey - "What's So Amazing About Grace"
1/16/14 Phillip Yancey
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
- Hebrews 10:23-25
God was not surprised by human disobedience, human failure, and yet God judged all of history, including the tragedies, including the rebellions, including the crucifixion of [God's] own son, and judged it as worth it.
- Phillip Yancey
Lord, you have brought us in safety to this new day. Preserve us by your mighty power that we may not fall into sin nor be overcome by adversity, and in all that we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Adapted from Common Prayer
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
- Hebrews 10:23-25
God was not surprised by human disobedience, human failure, and yet God judged all of history, including the tragedies, including the rebellions, including the crucifixion of [God's] own son, and judged it as worth it.
- Phillip Yancey
Lord, you have brought us in safety to this new day. Preserve us by your mighty power that we may not fall into sin nor be overcome by adversity, and in all that we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Adapted from Common Prayer
Arundhati Roy (The God of Small Things)
1/15/14 Arundhati Roy
Do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.
- Zechariah 7:10
Colorful demonstrations and weekend marches are vital but alone are not powerful enough to stop wars. Wars will be stopped only when soldiers refuse to fight, when workers refuse to load weapons onto ships and aircraft, when people boycott the economic outposts of Empire that are strung across the globe.
-Arundhati Roy
Lord, grant us the courage to fight the good fight by treating everybody right. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.
- Zechariah 7:10
Colorful demonstrations and weekend marches are vital but alone are not powerful enough to stop wars. Wars will be stopped only when soldiers refuse to fight, when workers refuse to load weapons onto ships and aircraft, when people boycott the economic outposts of Empire that are strung across the globe.
-Arundhati Roy
Lord, grant us the courage to fight the good fight by treating everybody right. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Martin Luther King, Jr.
(January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968)
1/15/14 Martin Luther King's Birthday 1-15-29
"But you do see! Indeed you note trouble and grief, that you may take it into your hands; the helpless commit themselves to you; you have been the helper of the orphan."
- Psalm 10:14
"The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: "If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?" But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: "If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?"
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Almighty God, help me to resist temptation this week. Help me to pinpoint divisive activities that get in the way of my walk with you. May my thoughts, words, and actions give glory to you. Amen.
"But you do see! Indeed you note trouble and grief, that you may take it into your hands; the helpless commit themselves to you; you have been the helper of the orphan."
- Psalm 10:14
"The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: "If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?" But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: "If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?"
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Almighty God, help me to resist temptation this week. Help me to pinpoint divisive activities that get in the way of my walk with you. May my thoughts, words, and actions give glory to you. Amen.
Walker Percy - The Moviegoer (1961)
1/14/14 Walker Percy
"Let the groans of the prisoners come before you; according to your great power preserve those doomed to die."
- Psalm 79:11
"The search is what anyone would undertake if he were not sunk in the everydayness of his own life. To become aware of the possibility of the search is to be on to something. Not to be on to something is to be in despair."
- Walker Percy
God, we pray for the victims of the tornadoes that hit the Midwest last week. Nourish and sustain them; give them patience to be still and know that you are God. Give strength to those working to restore what was destroyed, and give comfort to all who mourn. Amen.
"Let the groans of the prisoners come before you; according to your great power preserve those doomed to die."
- Psalm 79:11
"The search is what anyone would undertake if he were not sunk in the everydayness of his own life. To become aware of the possibility of the search is to be on to something. Not to be on to something is to be in despair."
- Walker Percy
God, we pray for the victims of the tornadoes that hit the Midwest last week. Nourish and sustain them; give them patience to be still and know that you are God. Give strength to those working to restore what was destroyed, and give comfort to all who mourn. Amen.
Francis de Sales
1/13/14 Francis de Sales
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:16-17
Love the poor and love poverty, for it is by such love that we become truly poor. As the Scripture says, we become like the things we love. If you love the poor you will share their poverty and be poor like them. If you love the poor be often with them. Be glad to see them in your own home and to visit with them in theirs. Be glad to talk to them and be pleased to have them near you in church, on the street, and elsewhere. Be poor in conversing with them and speak to them as their companions do, but be rich in assisting them by sharing some of your more abundant goods with them.
-Francis de Sales
prayer of the day
Lord, we expect good things from you because you are good and you promise to give to those who ask. Teach us to know not only how to ask but also for what we should ask. May all our asking, seeking, and knocking be to further your kingdom in some way, no matter how small or mundane. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
- Isaiah 32:16-17
Love the poor and love poverty, for it is by such love that we become truly poor. As the Scripture says, we become like the things we love. If you love the poor you will share their poverty and be poor like them. If you love the poor be often with them. Be glad to see them in your own home and to visit with them in theirs. Be glad to talk to them and be pleased to have them near you in church, on the street, and elsewhere. Be poor in conversing with them and speak to them as their companions do, but be rich in assisting them by sharing some of your more abundant goods with them.
-Francis de Sales
prayer of the day
Lord, we expect good things from you because you are good and you promise to give to those who ask. Teach us to know not only how to ask but also for what we should ask. May all our asking, seeking, and knocking be to further your kingdom in some way, no matter how small or mundane. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Robert James Brown - The Bridges of Madison County
1/12/14 Robert James Brown
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
- Matthew 11:29
voice of the day
We have got some very big problems confronting us and let us not make any mistake about it, human history in the future is fraught with tragedy ... It's only through people making a stand against that tragedy and being doggedly optimistic that we are going to win through. If you look at the plight of the human race it could well tip you into despair, so you have to be very strong.
-Robert James Brown
prayer of the day
Help us, Lord, to do the thing that is necessary: to tend to the poor, to walk alongside the poor, to find you among the poor, to declare ourselves poor as long as anyone suffers need. May we begin this journey with just one person today. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
- Matthew 11:29
voice of the day
We have got some very big problems confronting us and let us not make any mistake about it, human history in the future is fraught with tragedy ... It's only through people making a stand against that tragedy and being doggedly optimistic that we are going to win through. If you look at the plight of the human race it could well tip you into despair, so you have to be very strong.
-Robert James Brown
prayer of the day
Help us, Lord, to do the thing that is necessary: to tend to the poor, to walk alongside the poor, to find you among the poor, to declare ourselves poor as long as anyone suffers need. May we begin this journey with just one person today. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Paul Hawken
1/11/14 Paul Hawken
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.
- James 3:17
When asked if I am pessimistic or optimistic about the future, my answer is always the same: If you look at the science about what is happening on earth and aren’t pessimistic, you don’t understand data. But if you meet the people who are working to restore this earth and the lives of the poor, and you aren’t optimistic, you haven’t got a pulse. What I see everywhere in the world are ordinary people willing to confront despair, power, and incalculable odds in order to restore some semblance of grace, justice, and beauty to this world.
-Paul Hawken
prayer of the day
Lord, enable us today to see our neighbor in those whom the world rejects — the guilt-ridden, the foreigner, the unprotected, and the refugee. Open our eyes and make us present to these neighbors both in our various expressions of community and in the wider world. Amen.
- Common Prayer
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.
- James 3:17
When asked if I am pessimistic or optimistic about the future, my answer is always the same: If you look at the science about what is happening on earth and aren’t pessimistic, you don’t understand data. But if you meet the people who are working to restore this earth and the lives of the poor, and you aren’t optimistic, you haven’t got a pulse. What I see everywhere in the world are ordinary people willing to confront despair, power, and incalculable odds in order to restore some semblance of grace, justice, and beauty to this world.
-Paul Hawken
prayer of the day
Lord, enable us today to see our neighbor in those whom the world rejects — the guilt-ridden, the foreigner, the unprotected, and the refugee. Open our eyes and make us present to these neighbors both in our various expressions of community and in the wider world. Amen.
- Common Prayer
Eugene Cho
1/10/14 Eugene Cho
Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
- Mark 9:50
Justice is not peripheral to God's story. Justice — in its various forms — is mentioned over 200 times in the Scriptures. It's not optional, it's central. Seek justice.
-Eugene Cho
prayer of the day
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is despair, let me sow hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. Amen.
- A Prayer of St. Francis
Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
- Mark 9:50
Justice is not peripheral to God's story. Justice — in its various forms — is mentioned over 200 times in the Scriptures. It's not optional, it's central. Seek justice.
-Eugene Cho
prayer of the day
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is despair, let me sow hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. Amen.
- A Prayer of St. Francis
Pope Francis
1/9/14 Pope Francis
Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for [God] gives sleep to [God's] beloved.
- Psalm 127:1-2
Today, and it breaks my heart to say it, finding a homeless person who has died of cold, is not news. Today, the news is scandals, that is news, but the many children who don't have food — that's not news. This is grave. We can't rest easy while things are this way.
-Pope Francis, in unscripted comments answering questions at a huge international gathering of Catholic associations in St. Peter's Square.
prayer of the day
God of life, there are days when the burdens we carry chafe our shoulders and wear us down; when the road seems dreary and endless, the skies gray and threatening; when our lives have no music in them and our hearts are lonely, and our souls have lost their courage. Flood the path with light, we beseech you; turn our eyes to where the skies are full of promise. Amen
- Adapted from a prayer by St. Augustine
Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for [God] gives sleep to [God's] beloved.
- Psalm 127:1-2
Today, and it breaks my heart to say it, finding a homeless person who has died of cold, is not news. Today, the news is scandals, that is news, but the many children who don't have food — that's not news. This is grave. We can't rest easy while things are this way.
-Pope Francis, in unscripted comments answering questions at a huge international gathering of Catholic associations in St. Peter's Square.
prayer of the day
God of life, there are days when the burdens we carry chafe our shoulders and wear us down; when the road seems dreary and endless, the skies gray and threatening; when our lives have no music in them and our hearts are lonely, and our souls have lost their courage. Flood the path with light, we beseech you; turn our eyes to where the skies are full of promise. Amen
- Adapted from a prayer by St. Augustine
Pope Francis
Jane Addams
1/8/14 Jane Addams
Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.
- Micah 7:8
In the unceasing ebb and flow of justice and oppression we must all dig channels as best we may, that at the propitious moment somewhat of the swelling tide may be conducted to the barren places of life.
-Jane Addams
prayer of the day
Lord of peace and reconciliation, we lift up those who are hurting in our cities. Comfort those who mourn from experiencing too much violence and sin. May we, as your church have the wisdom and discernment to reach out to areas of need, to be in relationship with our neighbors, and to love the cities around us and the people who fill them. Amen.
Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.
- Micah 7:8
In the unceasing ebb and flow of justice and oppression we must all dig channels as best we may, that at the propitious moment somewhat of the swelling tide may be conducted to the barren places of life.
-Jane Addams
prayer of the day
Lord of peace and reconciliation, we lift up those who are hurting in our cities. Comfort those who mourn from experiencing too much violence and sin. May we, as your church have the wisdom and discernment to reach out to areas of need, to be in relationship with our neighbors, and to love the cities around us and the people who fill them. Amen.
1/7/14 Leonard Cohen
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
- Isaiah 43:2-3
"If you don’t become the ocean, you’ll be seasick every day."
- Leonard Cohen
May the faith that gives us hope, the love that shows the way, and the peace that cheers the heart be ours, this day and every day. Amen.
from Prayers of Comfort and Hope
God of all creation, help me to be patient with myself, that I allow myself to be present in each moment. Teach me patience in such a way that all my worries and fears be not hindrances, but opportunities to trust you more. Amen.
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
- Isaiah 43:2-3
"If you don’t become the ocean, you’ll be seasick every day."
- Leonard Cohen
May the faith that gives us hope, the love that shows the way, and the peace that cheers the heart be ours, this day and every day. Amen.
from Prayers of Comfort and Hope
God of all creation, help me to be patient with myself, that I allow myself to be present in each moment. Teach me patience in such a way that all my worries and fears be not hindrances, but opportunities to trust you more. Amen.
Rachel Naomi Remen
1/6/14 Rachel Naomi Remen
"Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly … Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am."
- Isaiah 58:7-9
"In the silence of listening, you can know yourself in everyone, the unseen singing softly to itself and to you."
- Rachel Naomi Remen
Everlasting God, we pray today for those around us who do not know or understand your gift of grace. Give them an unshakable curiosity about you, that they would begin to seek you more and more each day. Amen.
"Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly … Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and [God] will say, Here I am."
- Isaiah 58:7-9
"In the silence of listening, you can know yourself in everyone, the unseen singing softly to itself and to you."
- Rachel Naomi Remen
Everlasting God, we pray today for those around us who do not know or understand your gift of grace. Give them an unshakable curiosity about you, that they would begin to seek you more and more each day. Amen.
Jean Vanier
1/5/14 Jean Vanier
But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself.
- Philippians 3:20-21
Peace is the fruit of love, a love that is also justice. But to grow in love requires work — hard work. And it can bring pain because it implies loss — loss of the certitudes, comforts, and hurts that shelter and define us.
-Jean Vanier
prayer of the day
This is the day that you have made, O Lord. May we rejoice and show others the joy of our salvation! Let them know that we are your followers by the way we love them, especially the lowly, the poor, and the marginalized. Amen.
But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself.
- Philippians 3:20-21
Peace is the fruit of love, a love that is also justice. But to grow in love requires work — hard work. And it can bring pain because it implies loss — loss of the certitudes, comforts, and hurts that shelter and define us.
-Jean Vanier
prayer of the day
This is the day that you have made, O Lord. May we rejoice and show others the joy of our salvation! Let them know that we are your followers by the way we love them, especially the lowly, the poor, and the marginalized. Amen.
C.S Lewis
1/4/14 C.S Lewis
Thus says the LORD of hosts: Render true judgements, show kindness and mercy to one another; do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.
- Zechariah 7:9-10
I think each village was meant to feel pity for its own sick and poor whom it can help and I doubt if it is the duty of any private person to fix his mind on ills which he cannot help. This may even become an escape from the works of charity we really can do to those we know. God may call any one of us to respond to some far away problem or support those who have been so called. But we are finite and he will not call us everywhere or to support every worthy cause. And real needs are not far from us.
-C.S Lewis
prayer of the day
Lord, we thank you for changing seasons, and for being part of your creation that is full of rhythm and cycles. We pray for eyes to see and ears to hear the lessons you give to us through these periods of transition.
Thus says the LORD of hosts: Render true judgements, show kindness and mercy to one another; do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.
- Zechariah 7:9-10
I think each village was meant to feel pity for its own sick and poor whom it can help and I doubt if it is the duty of any private person to fix his mind on ills which he cannot help. This may even become an escape from the works of charity we really can do to those we know. God may call any one of us to respond to some far away problem or support those who have been so called. But we are finite and he will not call us everywhere or to support every worthy cause. And real needs are not far from us.
-C.S Lewis
prayer of the day
Lord, we thank you for changing seasons, and for being part of your creation that is full of rhythm and cycles. We pray for eyes to see and ears to hear the lessons you give to us through these periods of transition.
John Muir
1/3/14 John Muir
"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you."
- Philippians 4:4-9
"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world—the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware."
- John Muir
God of all creation, you created animals to roam the earth and fish to fill the seas. We pray for creatures on the verge of extinction, specifically that those responsible for poaching and polluting will be held responsible. Help us to live in a way that does not endanger life, but cherishes and nourishes the life in and around us. Amen
"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you."
- Philippians 4:4-9
"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world—the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware."
- John Muir
God of all creation, you created animals to roam the earth and fish to fill the seas. We pray for creatures on the verge of extinction, specifically that those responsible for poaching and polluting will be held responsible. Help us to live in a way that does not endanger life, but cherishes and nourishes the life in and around us. Amen
1/2/14
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.'
- Mark 2:27
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.
- Anne Frank
How merciful are you, O Lord, when you receive us even with our doubts and suspicions. We pray to keep tiptoeing toward you without fear of rejection. We pray to keep up our feeble attempts at serving you even when we question the worth of our efforts. Amen.
- From Common Prayer Book
Anne Frank
1/1/2014 Mark L. Taylor
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
- Hebrews 13:2
Jesus died the victim of executioners with imperial power. There is an inescapable opposition between the life and death of Jesus, and imperial power. To embrace and love the executed God is to be in resistance to empire. To be a follower of the executed Jesus of Nazareth is to venture down a road without having a place in the system of imperial control.
-Mark L. Taylor
God of healing, we pray for all who are sick and suffering from disease, affliction, and addiction — especially during this intense flu season. Bring comfort and healing into their lives, and may their health be restored. Amen.
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
- Hebrews 13:2
Jesus died the victim of executioners with imperial power. There is an inescapable opposition between the life and death of Jesus, and imperial power. To embrace and love the executed God is to be in resistance to empire. To be a follower of the executed Jesus of Nazareth is to venture down a road without having a place in the system of imperial control.
-Mark L. Taylor
God of healing, we pray for all who are sick and suffering from disease, affliction, and addiction — especially during this intense flu season. Bring comfort and healing into their lives, and may their health be restored. Amen.
Mark L. Taylor
AUDIO: ON/OFF BUTTON MUSIC
Daily Quotes and Scripture are courtesy:
SOJOURNERS MAGAZINE
SOJOURNERS MAGAZINE
12/31/13
"Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, but you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture? When you drink of clear water, must you foul the rest with your feet?"
- Ezekiel 34:18
"It's a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."
- Bilbo, from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring
God, you created the seas, the rivers, lakes, and oceans. It is from these waters that we have learned to find life and sustenance. Teach us how to care for the water in our world, how to keep it clean for future generations, and cleanse it for those who need it in the present. Amen.
J.R.R. Tolkien
"Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, but you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture? When you drink of clear water, must you foul the rest with your feet?"
- Ezekiel 34:18
"It's a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."
- Bilbo, from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring
God, you created the seas, the rivers, lakes, and oceans. It is from these waters that we have learned to find life and sustenance. Teach us how to care for the water in our world, how to keep it clean for future generations, and cleanse it for those who need it in the present. Amen.
J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R.Tolkien in Oxford
Thomas Merton
