Common Ground
Flo McDonald
(Archived story)
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
to the voice of my supplications!
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you,
so that you may be revered.
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope;
my soul waits for the Lord
more than those who watch for the morning,
more than those who watch for the morning. -Psalm 130:1-6
I witnessed what it means to have harmony amid adversity. Not long ago I attended a celebration dinner for a family member who had achieved a goal in education. The attendees were uncomfortable because of past conflicts, but they were there because of the young man-a perfect opportunity for reconciliation and making peace.
In the beginning, there was an air of hostility and withdrawal. The young man didn’t notice, and he thoroughly enjoyed his family being together in his honor. Before the evening was over, everyone was talking, taking pictures, and visiting as old friends.
I looked at those around the table and noticed the congeniality. I thanked God for love and blessing. I knew this happened because God was at work during that time. It came about because of our common love-love for the young man grew into love for all who loved him. We came together, and love found its way to the table.
Thanks be to God for continual blessings of joy, hope, love, and peace-and for allowing me to see the possibilities of harmony amid adversity.
Prayer Phrase
“Attention is the beginning of devotion” (Mary Oliver).
Spiritual Practice
Holy Attention
Engaging in the practice of holy attention allows us to suspend our inner conversations and agendas and give reverent and receptive focus to a specific person or portion of God’s creation. Regarding another as an unrepeatable miracle whose life journey is unique and sacred brings awareness to and affirmation of God’s presence in all creation. We do this in the spirit of Christ who saw into the deep hearts of people and recognized their true identities as God’s beloved. Spend time this day in prayerful attention to God’s creation, to the people in your life, and to your daily surroundings.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
