Monday, October 13

By Greg Clark of Independence, Missouri, USA

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea. …There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. …“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

—Psalm 46:1–2, 4, 10–11

The woman, easily in her 70s, maybe older, shuffled up the sidewalk, pushing a baby stroller. She wore a pale-blue sweatshirt and jeans, protecting her against the chill of a Midwestern day in late October.

Every few steps, she’d stop to fuss with the blankets in the stroller, clearly trying to keep the occupant warm.

Soon, she was right in front of my window, and I thought I might glimpse a child, bundled against the brisk weather. Instead, all I saw was the blanket, pulled protectively over a squirming body.

Then the woman stopped to arrange the blankets again. This time I could see. Instead of an infant, I saw floppy, furry ears; dark eyes; a black nose; and a little pink tongue.

The woman took a couple of more steps and then stopped again to adjust the stroller’s bonnet, obviously protecting the pup’s eyes from the thin sun.

This was one pampered pooch!

The thought hit me, “The pup has no idea how good its life is.” Then another thought hit: “I don’t know how good I’ve got it. In fact, most of us probably don’t understand the wealth of blessings that pour into our lives every day.”

Then I thought of those who find it hard to experience such blessings. I thought of how it’s our call to minister to them—Abolish Poverty, End Suffering—and to open our hearts to their pain and problems. To help others understand the Sacredness of Creation and Blessings of Community which surround them.

The dog in the stroller obviously basked in the love of its master. We can do the same. We are called to open the paths for others to feel that love, too.

Prayer for Peace Tender Shepherd, our blessings are too many to count. Day after day you surround us with your love. At times we separate ourselves from you, and yet you love us still. Often we are in conflict, and yet you trust us to share the peace of Christ. May we be worthy of your trust.

Spiritual Practice: Offering Blessings of Community Receive and share Blessings of Community. Begin with a prayer of gratitude for the friendships in your life. See and feel connections with family members, spiritual friends, people in your congregation and community, and people and creatures in God’s sacred web of life. How have you felt the love of the community? Go deeper each day as you consider what acts of blessing you can complete for stranger and friend alike.

Peace Covenant Today, God, I will share your love with those in my care.