Let us pray –

Abba, at first thought I offer my thanks to YOU;
for life, for grace, for love, for hope, for purpose.

There is nothing that I have done or could ever do that earns the joy of knowing love, which gives the pleasure of watching the ocean’s waves roll ashore, that merits the beauty that surrounds us in Your Creation. With the Psalmist I say, “Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! … When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?” (8)

I pray for those who are in sorrow today – alone, afraid, lost, or confused – that You would give them comfort, providing for their needs. Awaken a real compassion in us, Your children, to care for others selflessly.

Help me to live in the grace of gratitude – thankful to You, my God and to others who enrich my life in myriad ways.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.