Presence

Lord, I ask for the grace to experience the inner freedom that only you can bring, through spending this time with you in prayer.

Scripture Reading

Philippians 2:3-4 NRSVue

Do nothing from selfish ambition or empty conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others.

Reflection

Am I quick to malign our public servants, those who work in service of others? Am I a couch critic who blames elected politicians for everything? Do I constantly rail against the establishment? Am I quick to criticise but slow to volunteer? Is the work I do for the good of others? Do I find ways to help people or do I use the power I have to put obstacles in their way? Do I delight in making things more difficult? Do I act out of selfish ambition or empty conceit? Am I the first person I consider in all things? Today, I will take the time to honestly reflect on whose interests I act in. I will pause before doing and deciding, thanking God for the reminder to help rather than hinder.

Closing Prayer

Lord, help me to recognise where I am self-seeking and only concerned with “self-preservation”. Help me to love rather than criticise and to do small, positive things and little acts of generosity rather than complaining or blaming or climbing over others.  Amen.