Presence

Lord, it is in your Spirit that I find rest and refreshment from this busy world. Cover me now with your Spirit of peace, truth and love.

Scripture Reading

Romans 12: 9-13 NRSVue

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil; hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal; be ardent in spirit; serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; pursue hospitality to strangers.

Reflection

Do I hate what is evil and champion what is good? Studies show that we’re more likely to share bad news rather than good news. Is this what I do? What place does honour play in my life? Am I ardent in spirit? Do I rejoice in hope? Am I patient? Do I show hospitality to strangers or does it depend on what kind of stranger they are? Today, I will make a deliberate effort to spread good news, be it through my posts on social media or in my conversations, and thank God for all the good news I hear. I will also examine how I treat strangers, in particular people seeking refuge in my country or those who have moved into my neighbourhood. One of God’s greatest blessings, one we take for granted, is diversity. Today, I will thank Him for the rich tapestry of people with whom He has populated the earth.

Closing Prayer

Abba, Father, help me to love better all those around me, especially those who are different to me. Help me to examine “any wicked way in me” (Psalm 139:24a NRSVue), and to be open and hospitable to all. I repent of any ways I have been unkind, unwelcoming or have spread negative news or used negative, downputting words. Forgive me, Lord. Amen.