May I ask prayers for a lifelong friend whose apostolate in serving others has been extraordinary and continual. Could I ask that we pray for her family and for all those to whom she gives support and kindness. All of us need God’s grace, but perhaps those who give most need even more.
Thank You for those who serve
God, we are fragments of Your life made more meaningful because others allow themselves to be shaped as images of the gospel. Some remain in our lives, some linger for a time, and others pass by, giving, yet perhaps unconscious of their gift. May others’ joy in them and all Heaven’s in beholding, increase their reward, which is already greater than they can imagine.
You gaze with overflowing love upon these who authentically follow Your Son. Like Jesus who stepped out of divine perfection into our imperfection so that He might teach and give His life as ransom for humankind, they trust and obey. They are lamps glowing with Your life, awakening hearts to seek You.
By their shining, they glorify You in living witness, obeying Your commands and invitations as well as their oft-discouraging limitations allow. If they fall, they seek Your pardon and grace to rise again. Although seldom aware of the effects of their labour in others, they trust You to transcend their limitations and to give Your love to others through their prayer and efforts.
God, we thank You for them and for all those whose hands extend in blessing from time and eternity. Grant us loving communion with these generous souls. Give us faith to serve in following Jesus, so that others may follow our own leap into You.
