19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of Jesus Christ!

– Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)

In Your goodness, Heavenly Father, we meditate upon Your word:

    Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – I Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

Good and gracious Father, help us remember to always be thankful, not only in joy but in sadness, for what Christ has done for us is constant.

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

– James 1:2-6 (NIV)

O Lord, direct our steps this day into the way of peace, and strengthen our hearts to obey Your commandments. May the Dayspring visit us from on high, and give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, that they may adore You for Your mercy, follow You for Your truth, desire You for Your sweetness, for You are the blessed God of Israel, now and forever. (An ancient Collect, A.D. 440)

Gracious and loving God, thank You for this day. May we be filled with gratitude as we continually remember You are always here with us. We lift up our brothers and sisters, always praying for all, no matter what the circumstances. Today we pray for the power of Your Holy Spirit to anoint the Women’s Walk to Emmaus #144 as team and retreat participants gather to focus on You, Your love and grace, Your way and will. We ask for Your wisdom for us all as we pray in faith, in Jesus’ name.

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