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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

So it goes with the seed of self-love that the Creator planted in each of us—we must nurture it. Jesus obviously understood that when he urged us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. So self-love and love of others are part of the same sacred package. In fact, our love of others soon withers and dies if we do not love ourselves. As we learn to understand and nurture our own needs, we can extend the same compassion to others. “It is like a mustard seed; . . . it grew and became a tree” (Luke 13:19).

—Linda Douty, Rhythms of Growth: 365 Meditations to Nurture the Soul (Upper Room Books, 2014)

Today’s Question

How can you cultivate love for yourself and others? Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

[Jesus said,] “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
—Mark 12:30-31 (NRSV)

Prayer for the Week

Thank you, God, for sun and showers.
Thank you for each lovely flower.
Thank you for each stately tree.
Though all these, you speak to me.
A Gardener’s Prayer
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.

Something More

What does it mean to live a contemplative life? In Everyday Contemplative, Roger Owens challenges readers to expand their definition of contemplative living to encompass all ways of seeking to be more open, available, and responsive to God. Learn more here.

Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

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

4 Comments

  • robert moeller Posted April 27, 2022 5:45 am

    While all of us seem to have some issues, I’m glad to read some good news. Ally’s job opportunity, Jill’s schoolwork done, Becky’s successful eye surgery, Julie’s day by herself, Larry off to Florida setting up the move there. Prayers of thanks for these. Prayers of concern for Julie’s leg, her ability to walk, Jill’s heart, Lou’s new norm (not sure what that is), David’s biopsy results, and reasons why posts disappear. As far as the Poconos go, we’re still interested, but think there’s too much commotion at the moment. I’m more concerned about rising house prices than rising interest rates.
    Might have to be more flexible on some aspects of the house. “You can’t always get what you want.”
    The Lord provides what you need. Thank You, Lord.

  • Julie Posted April 27, 2022 8:41 am

    One way I need to use more to show myself love is go to the doctor more often. I have had issues with my legs and feet since January and only recently went to the podiatrist. I should still go to my hip doctor. I know it is needed but still have not called for an appointment.
    Prayers for Ally’s new job oppotunity, may it become permanent. Prayers for David’s biopsy results and anxiety. Prayers for Jill’s heart issues and resolution. Prayers for Becky to recover from her surgery, for safe travel and for all to go well wth the move to the new villa. Prayers for Robert as he weighs his options regarding moving, may God guide his decision.

  • Ally Posted April 27, 2022 11:33 am

    I have not always done the best job in loving myself. I find it difficult to extend myself grace. I do not engage in self-care like I should. I need to take better care of myself by eating healthier and getting more exercise. I need to be kinder to myself.
    We are getting ready to run an errand and then head to David’s appointment.
    Robert, prayers continue as you seek wisdom regarding the move.
    Julie, I hear you about Dr. appointments. May we both get past that hesitancy. .
    Prayers for Jill’s heart issue and for a good report. Praying for the move to Florida and for Becky’s continued recovery from cataract surgery. Praying that little Roger continue to do well. Robert, Lou mentioned that her family is still adjusting to the changes in their lives due to the divorce. Hence, new normal.
    I pray for our world and give thanks that pro democracy candidates prevailed in France and Slovenia, for the nation of Ukraine and for all who stand up to tyranny. Thank You Lord, for the tender mercies which give us hope. blessings to all.

  • Jill Posted April 27, 2022 11:37 am

    Cultivating love for myself hinges on me be cognizant of self-care. Physical self-care, emotional self-care and spiritual self-care. When I am balanced and living intentionally – care of and for others is a by-product. As a teacher commented this morning in the hallway – “put on your oxygen mask first, and then assist others around you.” I must be in a good place in order to appropriately meet the needs of others.
    My friend texted me and told me today’s game is cancelled due to the cold temps. Neither of us is sad. Now I can just relax after school until small group. This evening is our last small group meeting. This coincides well with the start of tennis here in a few weeks time.
    The traveling trio made it to “south of the border” – Carolina style. Today they reach their destination, Lord willing. My sister has to pack up things in their place in Florida, to move to the new villa.
    Ally – praying for you both as you await the results and that the results will be favorable.

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