God’s Love in Creation
By Lackings Manson Banda of Mzuzu, Malawi, Africa
He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD. -Psalm 33:5 NRSV
I woke up on one cold morning and took a tour around our house. The trees surrounding our house were all as cold as I was. Little did I know that in the branch of one of the pine trees was a bird’s nest. As I looked closer, I noticed that the mother bird was feeding her young.
I was so amazed to see how a bird could take care of her young. This gave me a picture to reflect on of how God takes care of us as his children each day of our lives.
God of creation, help us each to understand
how to use the vast resources of both sea and land.
Teach us how to plant and harvest-not for graft or greed
but that there may be sufficient for a world in need.
God of creation, we would be creators too,
Bless our efforts using wisely all that comes from you.
Earth’s stores of riches, like life-giving rain and sun,
are your generous provisions meant for everyone.
May we use them as intended-never wastefully-
not just for this generation but those yet to be.
God of creation, we would be creators too,
Bless our efforts using wisely all that comes from you.
-Naomi Russell, xc2xa9 1980 Community of Christ,
Community of Christ Sings 147
Prayer Phrase
I dwell in your presence.
Spiritual Practice
Prayer of Examen
Spend a few moments recalling your day. Let details, events, and conversations drift through your memory. Offer gratitude for the day and pray to be aware of how God was present. What did you notice or feel that brought meaning? Pay attention to moments when you felt least in harmony with God’s vision for creation. Offer a prayer of confession. Pay attention to moments when you felt most in harmony with God’s vision for creation. Pray to be even more aware of and responsive to God’s presence in the days ahead. Amen.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
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