mothers and fathers

Opening Prayer: O God, our Heavenly Father, thank you for those you have placed in our lives to nurture our faith and to give us guidance and direction; those who have been spiritual mothers and fathers to us.  We are eternally grateful for them and recognize our great need for each of them.  May we be a similar blessing to those in our lives and world today.  Amen.

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12

Journal: Who have been those to serve a mothering and fathering role in your life of faith?  How did they do that?  How is God calling you to do the same?

Reflection: The perfect love of our heavenly Father includes as well as transcends all the love that a father and mother can have for their children.  We may think about the two hands of God embracing us as a mother’s hand and a father’s hand: one caressing, consoling, and comforting; the other supporting, encouraging, and empowering.  We too are called to be father and mother to those who want to come home. (Bread for the Journey by Henri J. M. Nouwen)

Prayer

Closing Prayer: Thank you, O God, that the love with which you love us is always greater than the greatest loves we will ever know in this lifetime.  Your love is unfailing, your love is unconditional, and your love is unending.  Help us to know that love, which is beyond knowledge, that we might love those in our lives and our world with your love and not just our own.  Amen.