Scripture and Prayer Topic: Gratitude
Scripture: Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, this past year, we have seen and felt so many challenges, losses, threats of losses, and changes... in seemingly unprecedented or unexpected ways. But, were they really? So many funerals use the 23 Psalm as one of the scriptures read; but, what if we stopped reserving it for reciting at funerals; and instead, began living into those words each and every day… affirming them, you, your love? What if… we walked your path, your gestures of love towards all while incarnate, on earth, actually lowered or humbled ourselves, our egos, our pride… and massaged oils onto the feet of those we considered at any point in our lives to be “less than...” the weak, the poor, the sick, the meek, the lonely, the addicted? What if we did not do random acts of kindness; but, were intentionally concerned in caring, in loving, supporting one another, daily? Those days, we would truly walk the path of following Jesus’ path, while on earth. May I as a Christian live to see the day… we truly walk our talk… walk the footsteps of Christ. Amen.
Personal/Professional Growth Tool Suggestion:
Have an Arts Appreciation Day, where coworkers can share some of their own gifts of poetry, songs, singing, drawing and other artwork… or a favorite quote or poem as well as share why the piece was created or holds special meaning. You could do this monthly by choosing a different medium to share each month.
Coping Skill Suggestion:
Put a puzzle together. It doesn’t have to be a giant puzzle or one with 500 to 1,000 pieces! Even just a 50 piece puzzle can be a good stress buster or diversion from life’s worries for a half hour to an hour a day. You could even enlist a friend or family member to assist you over a beverage where you can use the puzzle as a conversation ice breaker if you’d like to connect with someone; but, are a bit anxious about new conversations or connecting with people.