For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Galatians 5:14
Today I will intentionally seek ways to love my neighbor as myself. I will start this practice by encouraging, understanding, welcoming, and comforting myself and others.
Lord, help me to be love in my corner of the world.
Feeding the multitude Bibliothèque nationale de France
Jesus said to them, “Give them some food yourselves.” Luke 9:13a
Today I will remember I am always being fed by God’s patience, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and peace. I will give this same food to everyone I encounter.
Jesus said, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” John 14:26
With each breath, we are one with God’s Holy Spirit.
With each breath, we hear the Holy Spirit teach us everything about kindness, respect, compassion, gentleness, justice, and generosity.
With each breath, we listen to the Holy Spirit’s reminder that Jesus has told us to love God, our neighbor, and ourselves, and to forgive those who have hurt us.
Lord, love comes in many forms of service. May I be guided today by your Holy Spirit as I use my gifts and talents to bless our fragile world with love and goodness.
Jesus prayed, “… that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one.” John 17:22-23
The power of “we” is the power of unity.
When we make the decision to unify our minds and hearts in peace, in respect for each other, in kindness and generosity towards each other… when we let go of selfishness and greed, fear and blame, the desire for power and recognition… our behaviors, attitudes, and actions will begin to reflect deep love and compassion for all of God’s people.
Lord, may the love with which you love each of your human children be in me today. Show me how to make known your healing presence in this time of sorrow and brokenness.
[Jesus said,] “Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27c
Every day brings events and situations that tempt me to let my heart be troubled and afraid.
Today I will remember I have a choice: I can let the temptation to be afraid overtake me, or I can trust in the Lord’s peace and refuse fear. The Holy Spirit will remind me and teach me how to choose peace.
Lord, lead me not into the temptation of fear. Open my heart to accept your peace.
The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works. Psalm 145:8-9
The Lord’s example shows me how to live the new commandment of love, including practicing courtesy, forgiveness, forbearance, kindness, and compassion towards every member of the human family.
Today I will show I am the Lord’s disciple by loving my neighbor and asking the Lord to bless all people everywhere, without exception.
Anton Mauve, 1838-1888 Shepherd and Sheep oil on canvas, ca.1880 Cincinnati Museum of Art
The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. Acts 13:52
In every moment I have the option to rejoice in God’s gift of the Holy Spirit.
May I remember to turn to the light in hard times. May I ask the Lord to guide me in the way of wisdom, understanding, compassion, forgiveness, peace, and kindness.
James Tissot (1836-1902) Apparition du Christ sur les bords du lac de Tibériade gouache over graphite on gray wove paper between 1886 and 1894 Brooklyn Museum
O LORD, be my helper. Psalm 30:11b
Let me not be ashamed to ask for the Lord’s help as often as I need. The Lord will not withhold from me. Let me always remember to say thank you.
Lord, may I rely on you to feed me physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. May your unfailing, kind attention fill me with gratitude.
Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” John 20:19b
Let us not doubt the Lord’s peace. It is a peace of the heart, the peace of knowing God is here, with us now and forever. We have not been forsaken, no matter how outside events appear. The vision is God’s, the timing is God’s, the peace is ours for the taking.
Lord, whatever I am experiencing today, I know you are here with me. Help me to receive your peace and extend it to all people everywhere.