Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem was likely difficult, both physically and mentally, requiring
a great deal of strength and stamina. Throughout their journey, they had faith in God. At the end of their travels they experienced
pure joy, for a new life was born!
In my journey through life, I may encounter moments that require greater strength and stamina. I may be learning a
new skill or coping with a challenging circumstance. I receive strength of spirit and stamina in mind and heart as I trust
in God as my guide. With God my way is clear and my journey secure. In God's presence, I experience a new life, filled with
joy and everlasting peace.
Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth
in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem.--Luke 2:4
If I've had a disagreement
with another person, I can try a new approach to set things right. I pray and invite God's love to open my eyes, my ears and
my heart to a deeper understanding of my relationships with others. I let love guide me to listen in nonjudgmental ways, allowing
the lines of communication to open.
By looking at circumstances
more thoughtfully, I find points of agreement with the people in my life. These commonalities help me interact with others
in ways that promote kindness and compassion.
As I allow
the love of God to permeate my thoughts and actions, harmony is established in my relationships.
Agree
with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.--2 Corinthians 13:11
Christ is born anew in our hearts, our country
and our world.
We join our hearts as one to create a new world. All possibilities for peace and prosperity are available to us as we
release old patterns of behavior and overcome thoughts and actions that have divided us in the past. Christ is born anew in
our hearts and in our world.
We greet these new days with hope and love, praying for our world leaders to be guided toward the highest good
for all. The power of our hearts united is invincible. We move forward with the confidence, hope and strength borne of faith.
Christ is awakened and renewed in us, and we trust the Holy Spirit to lead us into bringing about a new world vision of peace.
You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.--1
Peter 1:23
With prayer as my practice and the Holy Spirit
as my guide, I respond to life in mindful ways.
I admire those who have acted courageously and honorably under difficult circumstances,
and I am thankful for all those whose lives have made a difference in the world and in my life.
My admiration for others reminds me to act wisely and courageously
when faced with a challenge. I, too, can be of service to those unable to help themselves or those who need encouragement.
With prayer as my practice and the Holy Spirit as my guide, I know what to do and how to respond in mindful, effective ways.
I honor every life
given in service to others, and I honor every life lived in alignment with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To everyone who
has acted selflessly, I say, "Thank you!"
Respect those who labor among you ... esteem them very highly in love because
of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.–
When I witness discord among people, I may wonder how we can live together in peace. Divisions polarize, but I can be
part of a peaceful alternative.
I know that all people originate from the same divine source. Every person of every faith, tradition, lifestyle and
nationality is a child of God. We are all members of the same spiritual family. Even though family members may not always
agree, we are all bound together by the love of God. Like spokes on a wheel, no matter which direction each of us points,
we all connect at the center.
As I look into the faces of my spiritual brothers and sisters, I see the light of God in every face, and I send them
love. This season, I give the gift of peace to all.
Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.--Hebrews
12:14
