Practice Compassion
By Gail Biller of Orange, CA, USA
May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your way may be known upon earth, your saving power among all nations. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. —Psalm 67:1–4 NRSV, adapted
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” —Dalai Lama
What a great day today! Since my husband and I have both retired, sometimes we get lunch while shopping in a big warehouse store. (It’s cheaper.)
We live in a diverse area with people from many countries. We find ourselves sitting down to lunch at tables with people we don’t know, but in a short time they become friends. We hear their stories, and they hear ours. What a blessing!
I talk to the children and get the most beautiful smiles and laughter. One little boy said to his mom (pointing to my husband), “He is eating his ice cream before he finished his meal.”
Today we sat next to a man from Korea. Quickly we found out how long he has lived in the United States, how his children grew up and went to colleges here. I couldn’t help but feel the song “All of Us Are God’s Children.” I will try to meet more of them.
Prayer for Peace
Listening God, help us invite others to share their stories as we tell our own. In all our sharing may we hear your voice, praise your name, and share your peace.
Spiritual Practice: Breathing God’s Compassion
Light a candle and sit quietly, reflecting on the fire and light of God. Pay attention to your breathing and let it become calmer and deeper as you focus on God’s presence. Ask God to breathe in you. Image each breath carrying the light of God into your lungs, bloodstream, and every cell in your body until God’s Spirit fills you. Now imagine breathing out God’s compassion and grace each time you exhale. Pray to have the Spirit of Christ radiate from your life like the gentle flame of a candle.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will listen with compassion and respond to what I hear.
