Presence

I ask for the grace to be still in this Sacred Space as I prepare myself to read and reflect on the Word of God.

Scripture Reading

Sirach 28:12 NRSVue

If you blow on a spark, it will glow; if you spit on it, it will be put out, yet both come out of your mouth.

Reflection

Am I a champion or a naysayer? Do I encourage people in their ideas and efforts or do I find reasons that things may go wrong? Do I find reasons why things can’t be done rather than finding ways to make things happen? Whether I encourage or discourage, it’s my decision. My choice. I give thanks for my lived experience, which makes me who I am. My trials and my tribulations, my successes and my failures, my wins and my losses, all of them God-given. They are like a bank account from which I can withdraw to help others. Be it at home, as a champion of my children, my parents, or my spouse; in work, as a mentor for a new colleague; in school or college, as a coach/tutor for fellow students – I can help. Today, I will find the opportunity to encourage someone in what they are doing. I will offer my support. I will blow on that spark.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus, you championed the weak – you did not break a bruised reed or quench a dimly burning wick. (Isaiah 42:3). Please help me to encourage and upbuild others through the power of your Holy Spirit, the great Encourager. Amen.