Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:8 NLT

 Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Reflect in the Presence of Gentleness/Jesus

·         Which of the three invitations  to “take” is most challenging to me today? What keeps me from taking Jesus up on his invitation?

·         How could learning to take a yoke, a cross, or the bread help me to grow in humility and gentleness?

·         What do I want to tell Jesus today?

Practice:

·         Take a walk with Jesus this week, imaging him beside you in companionship.  Listen to your Friend share his heart.  Receive the gift of humility.

·         Take up the practice of self-denial this week to allow space for your soul to rest.  Give up a pleasure such as TV, wine, coffee, or dessert. Fast from a meal or two. Notice what emotions come up in you and talk to your Friend Jesus about that.

Prayer:

Christ, be with me.
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

                      ~ St Patrick (c. 389-c.461)

Psalm 23: 4, 6

 Even when I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
    for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
    protect and comfort me.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love

    will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.