Today’s Reflection
Presence isn’t about fixing; it’s about being there. In humility and with self-awareness, I recognize my limitations, but I do not shrink back. I allow myself to inhabit the space as both a being made in the image of God and as a conduit for the Spirit of love, light, salt. I do not need to fix everything, but I can be present anywhere. So, we can relax and attend to our environment in a loving way. This brings a power and a healing to any situation. . . .
This act of relinquishing the need to fix points to another essential aspect of the practice of powerful presence: We can tolerate being in the presence of the suffering of the world, even as we cannot make it go away.
—Daniel Wolpert, Looking Inward, Living Outward: The Spiritual Practice of Social Transformation (Upper Room Books, 2024)
Today’s Question
During times of hardship or suffering, who has been a loving presence for you? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
You are the salt of the earth. . . . You are the light of the world.
—Matthew 5:13-14 (NRSVUE)
Prayer for the Week
Dear God, I want to take part in the creation of your beloved community. Help me to order my life around you, and guide me to social action that manifests your kingdom on earth.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
The Two-Year Academy for Spiritual Formation invites you to embark on a transformative journey of faith. Immerse yourself in retreat-style learning, worship, and reflection during five-day sessions held quarterly over two years. Guided by world-class faculty and nurtured within a community of seekers, you’ll explore practices that nourish your spirit and help you live a more centered, God-focused life. Learn more here.
Lectionary Readings
- Acts 11:1-18
- Psalm 148
- Revelation 21:1-6
- John 13:31-35
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.