Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.  I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my coworkers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.  Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  As for the things that you have learned and received and heard and noticed in me, do them, and the God of peace will be with you.

Scripture Readings for Looking Ahead

Monday: Deuteronomy 30:19

Tuesday: Romans 12:2

Wednesday: Proverbs 23: 7, 12, 15-16

Thursday: Proverbs 2:9-12

Friday: James 3:17

Morning Prayer: Holy God, I rejoice in your renewing power and ask that you renew my spirit this day. Guide my thoughts and deeds with your holy wisdom that they may be pure: peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. May all I say and do show your love more clearly to the world. Amen.

Evening Prayer:  Merciful God, at the end of the day I see where I have progressed and transgressed, and I give both to you. Grant me rest tonight. As I sleep, create in me a pure heart and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.

Steps for Reading Scripture Using Lectio Divina

1. Lectio: Read the text slowly and prayerfully, listening for the word that God has prepared for you. 

2. Meditatio: Read it again. When a word or phrase strikes you, rest with it. Allow it to speak, reflecting on what it means to you.

3. Oratio: Pray. Enter into a loving conversation with God. How is God speaking to you through this word of phrase?

4. Contemplatio: Release the word or phrase and read the text once more. Rest in God’s presence; God’s transforming embrace. Contemplation is not your action or doing, but allowing God to act within you.