Today’s Reflection
When we set aside our pretenses, when we allow ourselves to name the path ahead, we begin to move away from fear and into the upside-down power dynamic of God’s kingdom: Where we are weakest, we are strongest. Where we are broken, we are blessed. Where we are empty, we are filled. When we come to our end, we make room for a beginning.
—Hannah E. Shanks, This is My Body (Fresh Air Books, 2018)
Today’s Question
What spiritual practices help you embrace God’s strength in your weakest moments? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
[The Lord] said to me [Paul], “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
—2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
Prayer for the Week
Loving Creator, you have made us — fearfully and wonderfully — in your image. Help us embrace our bodies, just as they are, without hesitation or shame. May we see your glory reflected in ourselves and in others. May we know that we are enough. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
In the Santuary of Women, by Jan Richardson, highlights six women from scripture and history and invites us to discover what their lives tell us about God. Come spend some time in the sanctuary of women. Learn more.
Lectionary Readings
- Acts 9:36-43
- Psalm 23
- Revelation 7:9-17
- John 10:22-30
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.