Day 7: Charity
Scripture:
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
1 John 3:16-18
Prayer:
Dear God, we thank you so much for Jesus and his willingness to lay down his life to save us. We are so grateful for your plans for our salvation and our lives. And God, we see so much pain, so much need in this world—it seems overwhelming and impossible to help. Sometimes we do not know how to even start, and we look away rather than feel so lost, so helpless to help. But we read your words, and we ask that you instill in us a heart for giving and loving other people. Please open our eyes to what we can do and please help us boldly give our money, our time, our talents and resources, ourselves—sharing all that you have given us with people who are in need. God help us to be willing to be uncomfortable; help us be willing to skip luxuries in order to help another person. Please show us where you are working and do not let us be complacent in our comfort while other people are in need and suffering. God, please help us go boldly and lovingly in your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection:
How will Jesus show up in my day today?
Do I have the eyes and ears to see and hear the wonders of his love and mercy?
How will I experience his grace? Will I see something miraculous? Something hope-filled that will transform me?
