Cease doing evil; learn to do good. Isaiah 1: 16–17

“What does God want of us? Through Isaiah, God says, ‘Do good… Make justice your aim’ (verse 17). But the words good and justice are so abstract, they may lead to confusion. So, God gives us concrete examples of what God means by these words: Set right an unfair situation… hear the orphan’s plea… defend the widow. That is; be a voice for the voiceless, a helper for the powerless, an advocate for those denied their rights. We can do this writing a letter to an elected official about an unjust situation or encouraging a loved one, caring for a cranky child or driving a friend to the doctor.

Jesus gives us another specific act we can do. Give a cup of cold water to a thirsty person.

How might I ease someone who is thirsting today – whether for water, food, my time, my attention, a kind word, a listening ear or even for God?

Jesus, you ask not extraordinary things of us, but daily small acts of selfless love. Help us to see that persistence in doing small acts of love is itself quite extraordinary.”

Sr. Melanie Svoboda, S.N.D

Let go of guilt; it’s OK to make the same mistakes again.

Let go of the obsessions; they sell them turn out the way you planned.

Let go of hate; it’s a waste of love.

Let go of blaming others; you are responsible for your own destiny.

Let go of fear; it’s a waste of faith.

Let go of despair; change comes from acceptance and forgiveness.

Let go of the past; the future is here – right now.” Kathleen O’Brien

“Jesus, you walked among us and were moved to compassion for your people. The lame and the leper came to you and found healing. The tax collector and the prostitute came, and you believed in them. No one was excluded from your love. Send us your spirit of union and compassion that we may make a home in our hearts for all the persons we meet. This day, O Jesus, give us hearts that love. Amen”

Loving God, let our world be kinder and compassionate each day.

“Generous God, we wait for you. You are our highest joy, our deepest peace. As we go forth to this day’s tasks, let us carry your light within us. May our day begin in you and end in you so that all may be done for your glory. May you and you alone be the principal motive of our actions. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.”

“Every person needs a place that they can call their own – whether it’s a whole room, a spot in the garden, or a special chair – where they can relax and be themselves.

You’re not being selfish when you do something nice for yourself.

Take a little time every day just for yourself – even if it’s only fifteen minutes.

Slow down, embrace solitude, and discover your inner joy.”

Let us take time just to be with our God.