Today we are sharing a few prompts to encourage you during your personal spiritual time. We hope this collection will inspire you to be kind to yourself and others as you move through your week and head into the weekend. 

Scripture
“Be merciful to me, O God; be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by” (Psalm 57:1). 

Prayer from Bread for the Day
God who listens to all, you know what is written upon our hearts. You hear and feel our anguish and pain. Rekindle in us a sense of deep thanksgiving that there is nothing in our hearts that is hidden from you. 

Journal prompt
Thankful (adjective): pleased and relieved; expressing gratitude and relief.
Write your own definition of “thankful” and describe what or who in your life brings you a sense of gratitude. 

Practicing gratitude
Short: Set a timer for five minutes and meditate in silence on things for which you’re thankful.
Medium: Take a 15-minute, quiet (or silent) walk, allowing your mind to wander or settle as needed. As you walk, whisper prayers of thanksgiving to the holy Parent.
Long: Take a 20-minute nap, giving your body a chance to rest. When you wake up, take another 10 minutes to meditate and pray. 

Affirmation
I am loved by God, my holy parent. God, my mother, my father, my friend, will never leave me nor forsake me. I am thankful that I am held. 

 

Kelly Wilkerson
Kelly Wilkerson is a content strategist for the ELCA. She is a former worship minister, creative arts director, and youth and family director, and has been working in full-time ministry for her entire professional career. Kelly is using her passion for storytelling, art, design and social media to serve in the Office of the Presiding Bishop on the Strategic Communications team. She is also an ELCA coach and currently resides in Columbus, Ohio, with her fiancee and their 80-pound bernedoodle.

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