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 ...

Morning Prayer 

He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

Inspiration 

It is easy to lash out at others, as with a "knee-jerk reaction, " but it takes wisdom and patience to hold our tongues or "hold our peace. " It is not always the right time and place to shout out accusations at others, even when others are in the wrong. And it matters also the manner in which we deal with others as to their faults.

Prayer 

Teach me, Lord, to be patient with others, kind, forgiving, tender-hearted, and meek. When it is right for me to speak out over a wrong done by someone else, help me to do it in the right way. Help me to know when to hold my peace and when to speak out. Amen.

Night Prayer 

And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.

Inspiration 

We have many daily challenges that cause us to worry. Financial burdens,  physical health, and other personal affairs cause anxiety and fear. Jesus reassures the disciples that they do not have to worry about where they will rest or what clothes they will wear because God will be present to provide for them as needed. We can apply this knowledge to our concerns as well. God is present and will provide for us physically and spiritually. Even when things are not okay, His presence alone grants us peace to make it through each life event.

Prayer 

Dear Lord, we love and adore You. We are grateful for Your presence in our lives and the peace You bestow upon us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.