blessing
[Noun]
A prayer that asks for God’s care for someone or something. Often confused with approval or favor from God, a blessing is different. It is given freely to all, even those who may judge, mistreat, or harm you. To truly bless others is to see God in them.
More than words
Every day we have countless opportunities to pray for others, to share comfort, encouragement and wisdom. How to give a blessing varies widely; there is no one right way. To do so requires that we see and accept what is happening, without trying to change the person, fix the situation, or take control. That level of acceptance is a deeply spiritual practice, and a gift to others.
Take a moment to appreciate what is happening around you and see how your heart is changed and your faith renewed.
Here are 4 ways to offer a blessing:
Say good morning to someone you do not know like the grocery clerk, an unhoused person you pass on the sidewalk, or an elderly parent. Bless them with your kindness.
Look around and notice something beautiful: a delicate spiderweb, a healed relationship, the angle of sunlight pouring through the window. Bless them with gratitude.
Exhale softly and embrace the sounds you hear around you: birds chirping, the wind moving through the trees, a political argument. Bless them with peace.
Be still and listen to someone without interruption: the neighbor who is sometimes annoying, a co-worker, children in your community. Bless them with presence.
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
Thank you for the blessing of another day, another opportunity to live and cherish everything You have given me. Bless me with a content heart, a calm mind and a peaceful soul so that I can in return, bless everyone around me with the same. Amen.
How can you bless someone today?
“But to you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
-Luke 6:27-28
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