“Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!” (1 Peter 4:7-11 MSG)
REFLECTION
Every breath we take, every ounce of energy we exert, every sunrise, every good thing we experience… each one is a glorious gift from God, so let’s not take anything for granted. Let’s stay focused and in awe of the One who made us, sustains us and gave the perfect sacrifice so that all who believe could abide in Him and have abundant, eternal life. And let’s stay deeply grateful, knowing that while we are here on earth, we can experience ever deepening spiritual intimacy with Him — the very Source of everything we could ever long for — as we pray and ponder His living and active Word, and stay open and submitted to His Spirit…trusting Him, breath by breath, step by step, through the sanctification and transformation process. It’s not always easy, but it’s wonderfully worthwhile. So, let’s stay close to our loving Lord and love each other as it’s spelled out in the sacred scriptures.
PRAYER POEM
Loving Lord, Your love is greater than anything I may feel or face, and I am so grateful that, by Your amazing grace, I can know You and Your love more and more deeply, and love others freely.
