Devotion
Love the Foreigners
Frances Taylor
Have you ever thought that the Holy Family were refugees just as Israel and his family were when they went to Egypt to escape the famine? They fled from those who would kill them to a country not their own, trusting that they would be safe. They weren't asked for a passport; they weren't asked if someone there would vouch for them; they most likely didn't know the language and they probably didn't have a job lined up. Joseph did what he needed to do to keep Mary and the child Jesus safe. How many fathers and mothers today must flee from persecution? How many leave everything they know to find safety for their children? Those of us who have always lived in freedom can't begin to understand what this means. Yes, many of us know poverty, discrimination, fear of the violence of the streets, but not the unrelenting fear that many of our neighbors have faced. How might our attitudes be different if we looked at every family seeking asylum as a "holy family?" Would we open our minds and hearts and offer help, or would we worry that "those people" might take away our jobs or put our way of life at risk?
When my sister lived in student housing in Iowa thirty plus years ago, she met another student from Thailand who couldn't believe the wastefulness of Americans. We speak of overcrowding; this student couldn't believe that we used perfectly good farm land for golf courses. It's a good time to remember that our ancestors were once refugees on these shores looking for a new way of life and freedom from tyranny. God wants us to welcome foreigners and care for them just as the Hebrew people were welcomed and the Holy Family were welcomed. What can we do to make today's holy families feel welcome?
Prayer
Loving and gracious God, you welcome all your children and care for them and you ask us to do the same. Open our hearts to welcome the stranger into our land and care for them as you would. Amen.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
