Reverence as Encouragement
Group Reflection
Reading:
“One of the most beautiful gifts in the world is the gift of encouragement. When someone encourages you, that person helps you over a threshold you might otherwise never have crossed on your own. There are times of great uncertainty in every life. Left alone at such a time, you feel dishevelment and confusion like gravity. When a friend comes with words of encouragement, a light and lightness visit you and you begin to find the stairs and the door out of the dark.”
― John O' Donohue
Eternal Echoes: Celtic Reflections on Our Yearning to Belong
One clear demonstration of reverence is encouragement — the act of offering support, confidence, or hope. Encouragement benefits more than just the individuals who receive it. It has a way of spreading to help build a community where everyone can flourish.
Reflection:
- Where is encouragement needed within your circles of influence? What can you do to be an agent of encouragement?
Actions:
Reverence a coworker or friend by offering them a few words of encouragement today.
Prayer:
God of Our Story, through the encouraging words and actions of those around us you show us your love. Your light and lightness visit us and guide us out of darkness when we allow ourselves to be accompanied and encouraged by friends and loved ones. May our communities be a constant reminder of Your Presence and may we reverence one another by expressing our gratitude and support each day.
Amen.