Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another.
Ephesians 4:32
May I be aware that you are carrying unknown burdens. May I choose kind attitudes, words, and behaviors in your presence. May I feed you with God’s love and faithfulness.
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Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”
John 6:35
Today I will be fed by reading Scripture, taking time to be still, and knowing God is always with me.
I will feed others by being kind, listening attentively, and being respectful of their needs and hopes.
[Live]…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love. Ephesians 4:-2
Treat yourself and others with gentleness. Choose gentle words. Make your touch gentle. Look into hearts. See the fragility and vulnerability there. Know that gentleness heals.
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When [Jesus] disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. Mark 6:34
A few of the things Jesus has taught me:
– Love my neighbor.
– Forgive those who hurt me.
– Don’t judge myself or others.
– Welcome strangers.
– Notice people and be aware of and attentive to their needs.
– Pray always.
Today I will practice one of the things Jesus has taught me by his word and example.
Lord, let us see your kindness. Psalm 85:8a
Our smiles and encouragement, compassion and respect, peaceful presence and helping hands allow others to see and know the kindness of the Lord.
Today I will be the kindness of the Lord in all my interactions.
And they took offense at him. Mark 6:3
I don’t have to be offended by others’ opinions. I don’t have to envy others’ gifts and talents. I don’t have to be suspicious of others because of the way they look, the language they speak, or the religion they practice.
Today I will honor others instead of judging them.
Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” Mark 5:36
With faith, I keep my eyes on the Lord instead of the problem. I reach out to touch the Lord and allow him to touch me. I trust the Lord to lead me, guide me, and show me the next right thing to do.
Today I will remember God is with me. I will put my focus on the Lord and ask him to help me.
A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion.
Mark 4:37-38a
When events disrupt my serenity, overwhelm me with sorrow, flood me with anxiety, and challenge my faith, I need to ask God to help me, rest, eat, and stay in touch with loved ones.
Today I will take care of myself even when the storms of life distress me.
It is good to give thanks to the LORD. Psalm 92:2a
Gratitude lifts me out of self-pity, focuses me on the moment, helps me let go of fear, brings me awareness of God’s limitless kindness and abundant gifts.
Today I will practice gratitude for God’s goodness and generosity and give thanks to the Lord.
I call on the name of the Lord. Psalm 116:13b
No matter what is happening in the world, in my country, in my community, in my personal life: God is in charge.
Today I will remember to keep God in the center of my life. I will call on the Lord when I am experiencing stress, confusion, or pain. I will remember to thank God for God’s unfailing presence.
Mary Ann McSweeny 