Memorial of John the Baptist
Mark 6:17-19

in fear
of another’s thoughts
and opinion
we do
what we do not wish
disregarding
the voice
of Wisdom
within
that asks for pause
and contemplation
of our greatest gift
of undying love
capable
of reaching
beyond enmity
creating a peace
that only heaven
knows

Where do you find wisdom?
Do you pause to hear Wisdom’s voice?
Do you trust what you hear?
Do you dare to love your enemy?

1Thes 3:7-13; Psalm 90: 3-5,12-17; Matthew 24:42-51

fill us
at daybreak
with your love
and kindness
that we
may always
stay awake
doing
your works
of mercy
and love
being nourished
and nourishing
a starving world
with your
Presence
prospering
the work
of your hands
keeping
at bay
all that
would steal
what is your
goodness

Are you filled at daybreak with his love? How do you share God’s love in your day?

1Tes 2:9-13; Psalm 139:7-12; Mt 23:27-32

knowing
our hearts
and our ways
God seeks
our goodness
drawing out
into the light
loving-kindness
and compassion
healing all
of our brokenness
releasing our bones
from death
into new life
in the Spirit

How does God draw you out into the light?

2Thes 2:1-3,14-17; Psalm 96:10-13; Matthew 23:23-26

God’s word
living and effective
discerns
the reflections
and thoughts
of our heart
cleansing us
within
and without
clearing our vision
setting us free
to see love
at work in the world
encouraging us
day by day
through grace
we turn away from blind guides
and serve the God of love

Is God’s word living and effective in your love?
Who do you serve?

2Thes 1:1-5,11-12; Psalm 96:1-5; Matthew 23:13-22

flourishing
faith
not dependent
on blind guides
brings forth
the sacred
in all
God’s gifts
not mistaking
the form
for its source
we sing
and bless
God’s awesome
presence
even in our affliction
we know
we are safe
in God’s love
and grace

What does your faith depend on?
How do you see your life as sacred?

Isaiah 66:18-21; Ps 117:1, 1; Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13; Luke 13: 22-30

through God’s
divine force
of gathering
we are drawn
together
into God’s
radiant presence
and Glory
loving others
with this love
healing
what is weak
in us
through faith
and discipline
we strive
to enter
the narrow gate
following
His Light
with mercy
justice
and Love

How do you enter the narrow gate?
Where do you gather strength?

Ruth 2:1-11,4:13-17; Psalm 128:1-5; Matthew 23:1-12

letting God’s love
become
our practice
we awaken
to God’s
ever presence
we are beholden
to no other
humbled
we embrace
the freedom
we receive
letting go
of all that binds us
giving
and receiving
forgiveness
and loving kindness

Do you let God’s love become your practice?

Ruth 1:1,3-6,14-16,22; Psalm 146:5-10; Matthew 22:34-40

Lord, you who
open our eyes
raise us up
and protect us
give us hope
and love
wherever we go
you go
wherever we live
you live

we live
this love
with heart
and soul
and mind
what is received
is given
freely
on this justice
all else depends

Have your eyes been opened to God’s love?
Do you love with your whole mind, heart, and soul?

Jgs 11:29-39; Psalm 40:5-10; Mt 22:1-14

making no vow
but to love God
with our whole heart
our whole soul
our whole mind
we accept the invitation
to live within
the realm of grace
in the garment of joy
and praise
coming to do
God’s will
for love
not offering sacrifice
or burnt offerings
but mercy
kindness
and compassion?

What vow do you make?

Judges 9:6-15; Psalm 21:2-7; Matthew 20:1-16

knowing
who we are
serving
our purpose
we have
no need
to dominate
or threaten
or be envious
we are fulfilled
in God’s justice
God’s love for all
our hearts
are opened
to God’s word
that is living
and effective
able to discern
the reflections
and thoughts
of our heart
bringing us
home

How does God work in your heart?
Are you fulfilling life’s purpose?