When we come together and place justice, compassion, and sincere worship at our center, something extraordinary happens: conflicts lose their sharp edges, and differences stop feeling like threats. People begin seeing each other as equals, or they should. Justice creates fairness, compassion nourishes our relationships, and worship (in whatever form) grounds people in humility and gratitude. When truly practiced, these values help maintain a peaceful community.

Self-entitled behavior, rejection, oppression, and other wrong actions fracture our relationships with God and with one another. Unfortunately, these actions can dissolve the trust that holds communities together. These injustices must be removed if people hope to live together. We should be showing each other how to be generous and compassionate through feeding the hungry and tending to those who suffer. We must be sensitive to the needs of others and sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of mercy toward all people. It is through these actions that our relationship with the risen Christ will grow.

Through the receiving of the Eucharist, our union with God is nourished. We make Sunday worship a priority. Rather than treating worship like a duty or habit, maybe we should see it as an invitation to a meal with our Lord—a time to worship with friends and family. We should go with open hearts and minds. Release self-seeking behavior and create space for gratitude and communion with Jesus. Blessings flow naturally as we align our human choices with what Jesus asks of us.

Let Us Pray:

Dear Lord, through the living Christ, may we find guidance and strength to open ourselves to those who need us. May we discover God’s blessings not only in receiving grace but in offering care to those who seek help and bringing comfort where there is need. In doing this, we step more fully into the love Jesus asks us to share.