We invite you to make a ‘Sacred Space’, praying here and now, as you visit our website, with the help of the Gospel of the day and on-screen guidance.
Begin the Prayer
Consider making a donation to Sacred Space.
SOMETHING TO THINK AND PRAY ABOUT THIS WEEK
Our Goal Is To Live Fully In God’s Presence
When we are in a good relationship with God, the evil spirit tries to unsettle us by making us anxious, frustrated, dissatisfied and sad. We shouldn’t enter his playing field by engaging with the temptation or arguing with these unhelpful thoughts or promptings. If we do, we’ll probably lose the battle. Instead, we should return calmly into God’s presence. As the Book of Exodus puts it: ‘The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still’ (Exodus 14:14).
Mary’s example teaches us that genuine joy comes from being united with the source of all true joy: God. The more we’re one with God, the less we are disturbed by anxieties, fears and pains. We don’t need to defend ourselves against these incursions, because God’s presence itself is our defence. Even while Mary was on earth, it was as though she were already in heaven, because she was fully in God’s presence, always adoring the one who filled her with light and with joy. And as her life approached its end, the light that had always shone in her heart became more and more intense. It drew her whole being upwards, as though it wanted to snatch her from the earth and draw her upwards where her spirit already soared, so that she could sing her beautiful Magnificat in gratitude to God forever and ever.
Thomas Casey SJ, Smile of Joy: Mary of Nazareth
We remember at this time...
Time away from work, whether on vacation or relaxing at home, can give us precious time to be with You, Lord, to renew our minds, refresh our hearts, and restore us spiritually and physically. Yet this opportunity is not available to everyone: refugees, parents of young children, and those who have lost their homes through natural disasters, war, or devastating wildfires may struggle to find moments of peace.
Lord, help us seek You even in the busiest seasons of life. Help us find moments with You while boiling the kettle, travelling to work, or simply pausing during the day. Remind us that You are always near. We need You, Lord. Teach us to recognise our need for You and draw closer to You each day. Amen
Sacred Space – Daily Prayer since 1999
Sacred Space began in 1999 and has offered new content every day since then. You can learn more about Sacred Space on our About page, or if you are a regular, you can share your Sacred Space Story on our Feedback page.
Sacred Space Feedback