Paving the Path to Glory: Preparing for the Lord in the Wilderness

A voice cries out:

“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord,
 make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all people shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” - Isaiah 40:3-5

Today, Isaiah 40:3-5 speaks of a voice calling in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord, making straight paths, and revealing God’s glory for all to see.

Inspiring Verse of The Day: The Song of Zechariah, The Songs of Advent

 

Luke 1:67-79

One of the most inspiring stories in the Bible is the birth of John the Baptist, accompanied by a beautiful song. Zechariah's song, as his father, beautifully captures the essence of faith and the profound promise of the divine. It is often read like a musical, where God encountered someone in grace and their response is just songs; they can't help but sing.

Zechariah and Elizabeth are an elderly couple who wanted a baby but believed they were too old. Despite these challenges, they maintained their love and trust in God.

One day, while Zechariah was serving in the temple, an angel named Gabriel appeared to him and said, 

"Don’t be afraid, Zechariah. God has heard your prayers! You and Elizabeth will have a son, and you must name him John."

Zechariah was so surprised that he couldn’t believe it. Because of his doubt, Gabriel told him he wouldn’t be able to speak until the baby was born.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth was overjoyed when she found out she was pregnant. She knew this baby was a special gift from God.

The Birth of John

When the baby was born, everyone wanted to name him after his father, but Elizabeth said, “No! His name is John!” Zechariah wrote the name on a tablet, and suddenly he could speak again. With a beautiful song of praise, Zechariah sang, thanking God for keeping His promises and speaking of the special role John would have in preparing the way for the Lord.

THE SONG OF ZECHARIAH (THE BENEDICTUS)—enjoy the tune

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel!
He has visited His people and redeemed them.

He has raised up for us a mighty Saviour
in the house of David His servant,
as He promised by the lips of holy men,
those who were His prophets from of old. (R)

A Saviour Who would free us from our foes,
from the hands of all who hate us.
So His love for our Father is fulfilled
and His holy covenant remembered. (R)

He swore to Abraham, our father, to grant us
that free from fear. And saved from the hands of foes,
we might serve Him in holiness and justice
all the days of our life in His presence. (R)

As for you, little child, you shall be called
a prophet of God, the Most High,
You shall go ahead of the Lord
to prepare His ways before Him. (R)

To make known to His people their salvation
through the forgiveness of all their sins,
the loving-kindness of the heart of our God
Who visits us like the dawn from on high. (R)

He will give light to those in darkness
those who dwell in the shadow of death,
and guide us into the way of peace. (R)

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
world without end, Amen. (R)

KEY INSIGHT

The story of the birth of John the Baptist and his father’s song offers profound insights:

1. God’s Faithfulness:

It reminds us that God keeps His promises, even when they seem delayed or impossible by human standards.

2. The Power of Prayer: 

Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story illustrates that prayers are heard, even when the answers come in unexpected ways.

3. Faith and Doubt: 

Zechariah’s doubt and subsequent silence teach the importance of trusting God, even when His plans defy our understanding.

4. Joy in God’s Plan: 

Elizabeth's joy and Zechariah's song express deep gratitude and worship stemming from witnessing God's hand at work.

5. Preparation for Greater Things: 

John’s role as the forerunner to Jesus highlights how every life has a purpose within God’s greater plan.

In essence, the story is about hope, trust, and the unfolding of divine purposes in the fullness of time.

GRATITUDE PRAYER

Lord, we thank You for Your faithfulness in keeping Your promises and for hearing our prayers. We are grateful for the example of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who remind us of Your power to do the impossible. Thank You for the gift of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus, and for Your plans that unfold in perfect 
timing. Help us to trust You more each day and to give You praise as Zechariah did. 

Amen!

Inspiring Verse of The Day: Be strong and courageous

 - Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you."

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KEY INSIGHTS AND HISTORICAL CONTEXTS

1. A Call to Courage and Strength:

The command to "be strong and bold" reminds us that courage is essential when facing life's challenges, particularly in intimidating situations. 

This call is not about relying solely on one's abilities but rather about drawing strength from faith in God's presence and promises.

2. Overcoming Fear:

The verse clearly instructs the Israelites not to fear or feel dread toward their enemies. Fear can be paralyzing, but this encouragement reassures them that fear loses its power in the presence of God. 

It highlights the importance of trusting God rather than giving in to fear of the unknown or facing opposition.

3. God's Presence and Faithfulness

The assurance that “the Lord your God goes with you” highlights that believers are never alone in their struggles.

God’s presence is constant and protective, providing guidance and security.

4. God’s Unfailing Commitment:

The promise that God will “not fail you or forsake you” assures us that His support is steadfast. His faithfulness provides hope, even in the most challenging situations. 

This reflects God’s covenant relationship with His people, affirming that His promises are dependable.

5. Application to Leadership:

This verse was addressed to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership. It emphasizes the importance of leaders being confident, faithful, and courageous in fulfilling God’s mission. 

The message can also be applied more broadly to anyone who is taking on roles of responsibility or facing significant challenges.

In the WORDS of the Vicar of Christ

 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS

Sunday, 8 December 2024

"Hail, full of grace” (Lk 1:28). With these words of greeting in the lowly house of Nazareth, the Angel revealed to Mary the mystery of her immaculate heart, “preserved free from all stain of original sin” from the moment of her conception (BL. PIUS IX, Ineffabilis Deus, 8 December 1854). 

In a variety of ways, down the centuries, Christians have sought to describe that gift in words and images, emphasizing the tenderness and grace of Our Lady, “blessed among all women” (cf. Lk 1:42) by portraying her with the native features and characteristics of any number of different peoples and cultures.

As Saint Paul VI observed, the Mother of God shows us “what all of us have deep in our hearts: the authentic image of humanity... innocent and holy... Mary’s being is pure harmony, candour, simplicity; it is complete transparency, kindness, perfection; it is utter beauty” (Homily on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, 8 December 1963). Mary is pure harmony, candour and simplicity.

Let us pause for a moment to contemplate Mary’s beauty in the light of the Word of God, focusing on three aspects of her life that remind us of her closeness to us. What are these three aspects? Mary as daughter, bride, and mother.

First, let us consider the Immaculate Virgin as a daughter. Sacred Scripture does not speak of Mary’s childhood. The Gospel presents her to us as she enters upon the stage of history: a young girl of deep faith, humble, and simple. Mary is the “virgin” (cf. Lk 1:27) whose gaze reflects the Father’s love. Within Mary’s pure heart, her gratuitous love and thankfulness give colour and fragrance to her holiness. Our Lady appears before us as a beautiful flower that grew unnoticed until it finally blossomed in the gift of self. Mary’s life is a continuous gift of self-giving.

This brings us to the second dimension of Mary’s beauty: that of a bride, chosen by God as a companion for his plan of salvation (cf. Lumen Gentium, 61). This is what the Council said: God chose Mary. He chose a woman as his helper to carry out the plan of salvation. There is no salvation without a woman since the Church herself is also a woman. She responded, “Yes” by saying, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord” (Lk 1:38). She is a “handmaid” not in the sense of being “servile” and "humiliated," but in the sense that she was “trusted” and “esteemed” as one to whom the Lord entrusted his dearest treasures and the most important missions. Mary’s beauty, multifaceted like that of a diamond, reveals a new face: one of fidelity, loyalty, and loving concern, all of which are typical of the mutual love of spouses. Saint John Paul II understood just this when he wrote that the Immaculate Virgin “accepted her election as Mother of the Son of God, guided by spousal love, the love which totally ‘consecrates’ a human being to God” (Redemptoris Mater, 39).

This brings us to the second dimension of Mary’s beauty: that of a bride, chosen by God as a companion for his plan of salvation (cf. Lumen Gentium, 61). This is what the Council said: God chose Mary. He chose a woman as his helper to carry out the plan of salvation. There is no salvation without a woman since the Church herself is also a woman. She responded, “Yes” by saying, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord” (Lk 1:38). She is a “handmaid” not in the sense of being “servile” and "humiliated," but in the sense that she was “trusted” and “esteemed” as one to whom the Lord entrusted his dearest treasures and the most important missions. Mary’s beauty, multifaceted like that of a diamond, reveals a new face: one of fidelity, loyalty, and loving concern, all of which are typical of the mutual love of spouses. Saint John Paul II understood just this when he wrote that the Immaculate Virgin “accepted her election as Mother of the Son of God, guided by spousal love, the love which totally ‘consecrates’ a human being to God” (Redemptoris Mater, 39).

We now come to the third dimension of Mary’s beauty. What is this third dimension? Mary as a mother. She is most often depicted as a mother with the Child Jesus in her arms or bending over the Son of God as he lay in the manger (cf. Lk 2:7). She was present beside her Son throughout his life, ever close in her maternal care yet hidden in her humility. We witness this closeness at Cana, where she interceded for the bride and groom (cf. Jn 2:3-5), at Capernaum, where she was praised for listening to the Word of God (cf. Lk 11:27-28), and finally at the foot of the cross—the mother of a condemned man—where Jesus himself gave her to us as our mother (cf. Jn 19:25-27). There, at the foot of the cross, the Immaculate Virgin is beautiful in her fruitfulness, since she recognizes that she must die to herself in order to give life, forget herself in order to care for the poor and vulnerable who turn to her.

All these things are contained in Mary’s pure Heart, a heart that is free from sin, docile to the working of the Holy Spirit (cf. Redemptoris Mater, 13) and ready to offer to God, out of love, “the full submission of intellect and will” (Dei Verbum, 5; cf. Dei Filius, 3).

There is the risk, however, of thinking that Mary’s beauty is somehow remote, out of reach, unattainable. That is not the case. We too have received this beauty as a gift in baptism, when we were freed from sin and became sons and daughters of God. Like the Virgin Mary, we are called to cultivate this beauty with filial, spousal, and maternal love. Like her, may we be grateful for what we have received and generous in what we give back. May we be men and women who are ready to say “Thank you” and “Yes”, not just with our words but above all by our actions. It is a beautiful thing to find men and women who say “Thank you” and “Yes” through their actions – ever ready to make room for the Lord in our plans and aspirations, eager to embrace with maternal tenderness the brothers and sisters we encounter on our way. The Immaculate Virgin is not a myth, an abstract doctrine or an impossible ideal. She is the model of a beautiful and concrete project, the perfect example of our humanity. As we imitate her, may all of us, by God’s grace, help to change our world for the better.

Sadly, if we look around us, we realize that the presumption that we can be “like God” (cf. Gen 3:1-6), which led to the first sin, continues to wound our human family. Neither love nor happiness can arise from this presumption of self-sufficiency. Those who see the rejection of any stable and lasting bond in life as progress do not grant freedom. Those who deprive fathers and mothers of respect, those who do not want children, those who reduce others to mere objects or treat them as nuisances, those who consider sharing with others a waste, and solidarity an impoverishment, cannot spread joy or build a future. What is the use of having a full bank account, a comfortable home, unreal virtual relationships, if our hearts remain cold, empty and closed?   What is the use of achieving great financial growth in privileged countries if half the world is starving or ravaged by war, and the others look on with indifference? What is the use of travelling around the world if every encounter is reduced to a passing impression or a photograph that no one will remember in a few days or months?

Brothers and sisters, let us look to Mary Immaculate and ask her to conquer us through her loving Heart. May she convert us and make us a community in which filial, spousal, and maternal love may be a rule and criterion of life. Only then will families be united, will spouses truly share everything, will parents be physically present and close to their children, and children will take care of their parents. That is the beauty we see in the Immaculate Virgin; that is the “beauty that saves the world." Like Mary, we too want to respond by saying to the Lord, "Behold... Let it be to me according to your word” (Lk 1:38).

We are celebrating this Eucharist with the new Cardinals. I have asked them, my brothers, to help me in my pastoral service to the Universal Church. They have come from many parts of the world, bringing great wisdom, in order to contribute to the growth and spread of the Kingdom of God. Let us now entrust them in a special way to the intercession of the Mother of our Saviour.

Inspiring Verse of The Day: Song of Mary The Mother of Jesus

 

- Luke 1:48

"For he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed."

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Luke 1:48 is part of Mary’s song of praise, the MAGNIFICAT (Luke 1:46–55), in which she glorifies God for His mercy and faithfulness. 

MARY’S SONG, Luke 1:46–55

And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed,

for the Mighty One has done great things for me—

    holy is his name.

His mercy extends to those who fear him,

from generation to generation.

He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;

he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

He has brought down rulers from their thrones

but has lifted up the humble.

He has filled the hungry with good things

but has sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel,

 remembering to be merciful

to Abraham and his descendants forever,

 just as he promised our ancestors.”

Inspiring Verse of The Day: Love Bears All Things and Forgives All Wrongs

 - Colossians 3:13

"13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

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Key Insights and Reflections

Colossians 3:13 emphasizes the Christian call to imitate Christ’s character in relationships, especially in bearing with one another and offering forgiveness. Here’s a breakdown and commentary on the verse:

        "Bear with each other."

This phrase encourages believers to practice patience and endurance in their relationships. "Bear with" suggests tolerating the flaws, shortcomings, and differences of others. It acknowledges that people are imperfect and that fostering harmony requires a willingness to overlook minor offences and adapt to each other's unique traits.

Reflection: Believers are encouraged to approach others with humility, kindness, and grace, recognizing that relationships often require effort and sacrifice.

        "Forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone."

This directive focuses on personal grievances—situations where someone has wronged or hurt you. The call to forgive is unconditional; it does not depend on whether the other person has apologized or "earned" forgiveness. Forgiveness is a gift that frees both the forgiver and the forgiven from the burden of resentment.

Reflection: The verse highlights the importance of forgiveness in promoting unity within the body of Christ. Holding onto grudges harms relationships, while forgiveness brings peace and reflects God's heart.

        "Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

The standard for Christian forgiveness is based on God's example. Through Jesus Christ, God forgave humanity's sins freely, completely, and undeservedly. Believers are called to replicate this level of forgiveness by extending grace not based on merit but offered out of obedience and gratitude for God's grace.

Reflection: This reminds Christians of their experience of Divine Mercy. If God has forgiven us so generously, how can we withhold forgiveness from others?

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

In Community:

This verse is crucial for fostering healthy relationships within the church and among believers. Patience and forgiveness prevent division while promoting a culture of love and unity.

In Personal Life: 

Forgiveness is a daily practice that requires intention and a willingness to let go of offences, regardless of their significance. 

Forgiveness significantly contributes to healthy living by positively affecting mental, emotional, physical, and social well-being. Here's how:

Emotional Health: Reduces Stress and Resentment

• Holding onto grudges or anger increases stress, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and emotional fatigue.

• Forgiveness releases the emotional burden of resentment, bringing inner peace and emotional balance.

Result: You experience a lighter, more joyful emotional state, free from the negative weight of unresolved conflicts.

Mental Health: Promotes Clarity and Focus

• Harboring unforgiveness often leads to obsessive thoughts about the offence, clouding mental clarity and focus.

• Forgiveness clears mental space, helping you concentrate on positive goals and aspirations instead of past grievances.

Result: A healthier mindset with improved focus, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Physical Health: Reduces the Risk of Stress-Related Illnesses

• Chronic anger and bitterness can trigger stress responses in the body, increasing blood pressure, heart rate, and the risk of conditions like heart disease and stroke.

• Forgiveness helps lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, leading to better heart health, immune function, and overall physical well-being.

Result: A healthier body with lower risks of chronic health conditions and improved longevity.

Relational Health: Restores and Strengthens Relationships

• Forgiveness is key to resolving conflicts and rebuilding trust in relationships.

• It fosters empathy, compassion, and understanding, which strengthen bonds with family, friends, and community.

Result: Deeper, more meaningful connections and a supportive social network.

Improves Self-Perception

• When you forgive, you acknowledge your imperfections and humanity, fostering self-compassion.

• This breaks cycles of guilt or shame and encourages self-acceptance.

Result: Greater self-esteem and confidence in navigating life's challenges.

In Spiritual Growth: 

Holding onto resentment and refusing to forgive can obstruct one's spiritual journey. By choosing to forgive, we invite God's peace into our lives and become more aligned with His will.

Spiritual Health: Aligns with Inner Peace and Purpose

• Forgiveness aligns with spiritual principles, bringing a sense of purpose, meaning, and alignment with God’s will (for believers).

• It fosters a sense of gratitude, humility, and compassion, enhancing spiritual growth.

Result: A stronger sense of peace, purpose, and connection to your faith or values.

Key Takeaway:

Colossians 3:13 reminds Christians to reflect on God’s forgiveness in their relationships. It challenges believers to cultivate a forgiving spirit.

Forgiveness is a powerful tool for healthy living. It benefits your mind, body, relationships, and spirit, helping you move forward with freedom, joy, and resilience. Choosing to forgive is not only about others; it is also an act of self-care that leads to a more abundant and peaceful life.

GRATITUDE PRAYER FOR THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS

Thank You, Lord, for forgiving us through Christ and teaching us to forgive others. Help us to bear with one another in love and extend the same grace You have shown us. 

Amen!

Inspiring Verse of The Day: The Power of Prayer in Christians Lives

 

Philippians 4:6-7

"6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every 
situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, 
present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, 
which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts
 and your minds in Christ Jesus."

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Today, the Word of God provides us timeless guidance on overcoming anxiety, cultivating peace, and deepening our trust in God through prayer and gratitude.

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KEY INSIGHT VERSE BY VERSE

1. Overcoming Anxiety

        "Do not be anxious about anything." 

This command acknowledges the human tendency toward worry but encourages believers to counteract anxiety by trusting in God.

Message: Anxiety can be replaced with trust when we depend on God’s care and sovereignty in every aspect of life.

2. The Power of Prayer

        "By prayer and petition." 

Prayer is the antidote to worry. Through heartfelt communication with God, believers find comfort and assurance.

Message: Regular, earnest prayer draws us closer to God and helps us surrender our concerns to Him.

3. The Role of Thanksgiving

        "With thanksgiving."

Gratitude shifts focus from what we lack to what God has already provided, fostering a positive mindset.

Message: Thanksgiving nurtures faith and reminds believers of God's faithfulness and blessings, reducing fear of the unknown.

4. Presenting Requests to God

        "Present your requests to God": 

God invites His children to share their needs and burdens with Him openly.

Message: Trust in God's willingness to hear and respond transforms prayer into a powerful tool for spiritual growth and emotional relief.

5. Experience God's Peace

        "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding."

This peace is not dependent on circumstances but a divine gift surpassing human comprehension.

Message: God’s peace provides inner stability and assurance, even amid uncertainty or trials.

6. Guarding Hearts and Minds

        "Will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

This peace is a protective shield, safeguarding emotional and mental well-being through faith in Jesus.

Message: Believers find security and clarity in their relationship with Christ, helping them navigate life's challenges with confidence.

THE POWER OF PRAYER 

Prayer is central to and the cornerstone of the Christian faith, serving as the primary means of communication with God. It is not only an act of worship but also a source of strength, guidance, and transformation. The Bible consistently emphasizes the significance and effectiveness of prayer in the life of a believer.

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1. Connection with God

Prayer fosters an intimate relationship with God, allowing believers to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs directly to Him. Prayer strengthens faith and deepens spiritual intimacy with God.

"Call to me and I will answer you and 
tell you great and unsearchable things 
you do not know" 
- Jeremiah 33:3

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2. Source of Peace and Strength

Prayer relieves anxiety and provides inner peace by entrusting burdens to God. It brings comfort and renews strength to face life’s challenges.

"Do not be anxious about anything, 
but in every situation, by prayer and 
petition, with thanksgiving, present 
your requests to God" 
- Philippians 4:6

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3. Guidance and Wisdom

Through prayer, Christians seek God’s will and discernment for life’s decisions. Prayer helps believers align their choices with God’s purpose.

"If any of you lack wisdom, you should
ask God, who gives generously to all without 
finding fault, and it will be given to you" 
- James 1:5

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4. Transformation and Spiritual Growth

Prayer cultivates humility, repentance, and spiritual maturity. Prayer shapes character and fosters the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).

"Create in me a pure heart, O God,
 and renew a steadfast spirit within me" 
- Psalm 51:10

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5. Power to Overcome Challenges

Prayer equips believers to overcome spiritual battles and life's trials. It strengthens believers against temptation and adversity.

"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful 
and effective" 
- James 5:16

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6. Intercession and Impact on Others

Prayer is a way to advocate for others before God. Prayer encourages unity, support, and collective faith within the body of Christ.

 "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions 
with all kinds of prayers and requests" 
- Ephesians 6:18

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7. Unlocking God’s Promises

Prayer activates God’s promises and provisions in a believer’s life. It demonstrates faith and reliance on God’s faithfulness.

"Ask and it will be given to you; 
seek and you will find; knock and 
the door will be opened to you" 
- Matthew 7:7

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The power of prayer lies in its ability to connect believers with God, transform lives, and bring divine intervention into every situation. It is a lifeline of hope, a tool for spiritual growth, and a testament to faith. Through consistent and heartfelt prayer, Christians experience God’s presence, peace, and power in their lives.

Philippians 4:6-7 teaches believers to replace anxiety with trust in God through prayer and gratitude. In doing so, they receive God’s peace, which surpasses human understanding and provides security and hope in Christ. It calls us to a life of faith, thanksgiving, and reliance on God’s sovereign care.

GRATITUDE PRAYER FOR GOD’S HELP

Heavenly Father, fill my heart with gratitude, even during difficult times, so that I may always come to You with thanksgiving. Lord, help me to trust You completely and to avoid anxiety about anything. Teach me to lay all my worries at Your feet and to guard my heart and mind with Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me to come to You in prayer consistently and with faith, knowing that You hear and answer my prayers.

Jesus Christ, the Saviour, protect my heart and mind from fear and doubt. Let Your presence be my anchor.

Holy Spirit, please guide me to grow closer to God through prayer, trust, and thanksgiving. 

Amen!