Listen to the podcast version here: https://anchor.fm/simplediakonia/episodes/Reflection-John-1011-evokak
“I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11)
Reflection:
Jesus is truth, strength, and protection. Under his care, faith sanctifies frailty; hope overcomes darkness; charity provides shelter.
Today’s Intention
Lord, be my shepherd today and always.
Peace and Goodness
Listen to audio version here: https://anchor.fm/simplediakonia/episodes/Lenten-Reflection-Day-28-Psalm-468-eso5rg
“The Lord of hosts is with us;
our stronghold is the God of Jacob.” (Psalm 46:8)
Reflection
Lent is a door into the divine fortress of God’s kingdom. A place where we find the strength to face our problems with faith, hope, and charity.
Life is both joy and pain. At times, it feels like suffering has the upper hand. It can be easy to be discouraged when our prayers appear unanswered by God; our almsgiving goes unappreciated; we are unable to fast as we intended. Yet, it is on those occasions that we must stay put within the walls of His protection.
Today’s Intention:
You are our refuge, O God. Help us to remain always within the stronghold of your love.
Peace and Goodness
Listen here: https://anchor.fm/simplediakonia/episodes/Lenten-Reflection-Day-17-Isaiah-5311-erlp4g
“My servant, the just one, shall justify the many,
their iniquity he shall bear.” (Isaiah 53:11)
Reflection:
At times, we forget the many blessings God has bestowed upon us. The greatest among them, Jesus Christ our Savior. The focus on Lent is on prayer, almsgiving, and fasting. We should add a fourth pillar, gratitude.
A grateful heart is a prayerful heart because it knows salvation comes from above. A thankful heart is filled with charity because it understands that almsgiving without love is a fancy act. A grateful heart realizes that fasting is not about suffering but joy, a healthy balance of self-giving and control.
Today’s Intention:
Lord, move us through the Holy Spirit to live in gratitude. To give you thanksgiving every day for the gift of Jesus Christ who justifies us and bears our iniquities.
Peace and Goodness
Listen here: https://anchor.fm/simplediakonia/episodes/Lenten-Reflection-Day-11-Matthew-546-er621u
“For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?” (Matthew 5:46)
Reflection
Lent challenges us to disengage the auto-pilot of our spirituality. It is an occasion to grow in faith, hope, and charity by praying and ministering to those we dislike. To fast from hatred toward those who we do not consider deserving of our love.
Today’s Intention:
Lord, give us opportunities this Lent to step away from our spiritual comfort zone by praying and ministering to those we disapprove.
Peace and Goodness
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