Today’s Reflection
O God, keep me from chronically feeling sorry
for myself.
I don’t want to drain another’s deep well
of compassion.
Help me to accept my afflictions, knowing a better
day is coming.
Turn my self-pity into a small act of service for
a neighbor.
—Missy Buchanan, Living with Purpose in a Worn-Out Body: Spiritual Encouragement for Older Adults (Upper Room Books, 2008)
Save 15% on this week’s featured book when you use promo code NEM1026 at Store.UpperRoom.org.*
Today’s Question
What afflictions in this life do you need to simply accept? What small act of service can you still offer to others? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
Put away your former way of life, your old self, corrupt and deluded by its lusts, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to clothe yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
—Ephesians 4:22–24 (NRSVUE)
Prayer for the Week
God, we have always been dependent on you for every step and every breath. You have never left us, even as we age and wear these bodies out. As we rely more and more on others, remind us to rely on you the most. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Lectionary Readings
- Deuteronomy 34:1-12
- Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17
- 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
- Matthew 22:34-46
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
*Offer valid through November 15, 2026.
