X

New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

"A Liturgy for Morning Prayer," Upper Room Worshipbook

Used by permission from the Book of Common Worship, © 2018 Westminster John Knox Press. All rights reserved. This prayer appears in “A Liturgy for Morning Prayer” in Upper Room Worshipbook.

 

Today’s Reflection

Caregivers do hard, difficult work. Their hands scrub, disinfect, wash, cook, launder, bathe, fasten buttons and zippers, wipe, and, in some cases, diaper. They also hug, hold, pat, touch, and massage their care receivers. Those hands are often folded or outstretched in humble petition: Come, Lord Jesus, enter this place and provide strength—the superhuman kind of strength required to get me through the day.

—Nell E. Noonan, Not Alone: Encouragement for Caregivers (Upper Room Books, 2009)

Today’s Question

When have you thanked God for your hands and the work they are able to do?
Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

Jesus placed his hands on the man’s eyes again. [The blind man] looked with his eyes wide open, his sight was restored, and he could see everything clearly.
—Mark 8:25 (CEB)

Prayer for the Week

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change those things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
Prayer attributed to Reinhold Neibuhr
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.

Something More

Stay connected with The Upper Room. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

2 Comments

  • robert moeller Posted August 23, 2022 8:09 am

    Don’t think I did this, but surely was glad to be able to care for Mom the last years of her earthly life.
    My sister and I cared for her at home. Things became more difficult as dementia increased, the last two years were the most trying. I have great sympathy for those caring for others, no matter who they are.
    Back to Conversations with God, book one chapters 2-3. There are aspects of this book I agree with, others I don’t, and some I’m still trying to understand. While it seems very Christian influenced, other faiths also appear. I think this book helps me understand what my beliefs are.
    Prayers for Ally as she deals with her situation, may resolution and restoration come to her. Prayers for Julie in her uncomfortable care giving role. I pray too for H who has struggles he is unable to resolve. Lou, needs prayers too, as she has many concerns to deal with on a daily basis. Prayers that Jill, Larry, Becky and family are doing well, have had safe travel. Prayers for April and her loved one.
    Prayers for Rick and Scott and their well being, May all who come here experience God’s presence.
    Thank You, Lord.

  • Jill Posted August 23, 2022 6:47 pm

    This is ever-present in my mind, as my friend and I have shared stories of caregiving for our moms…doing things we never imagined doing. And my heart is growing heavier, as my friend texted me this morning saying the facility had contacted her and her mom’s time is drawing near. She was there last evening past midnight and back again this morning. Her mom’s breathing is rattly – and I remember that being the case on my mom’s last day. I offered to drop off some dinner, but she said she had left briefly for a late lunch. She said extended family is dropping by tonight. My friend said that part of her is rejoicing, because her mom’s struggle will be at an end. Yes and amen. I can relate.
    A busy day at school, with many failed technology things and interruptions. I can’t wait to see my students next Tuesday. Many more small group meetings for tomorrow. I was able to get my room arranged the way I want it – so feel like things are coming together. Got home, very tired, but mowed the lawn. My lawn mower died with just a small patch remaining. Sigh.

Add Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *