Christian Reflection and Prayer

Scripture:

 

They are a garland to grace your headand a chain
to adorn your neck. — Proverbs 1:9

 

This verse from Proverbs teaches us that we are never
alone with the Bible by our side. Its words are our
companion. Its teachings are our guide. Its messages,
a source of love. When there is no one to show us the
way, God’s Word will direct us. When there is no one to
help us maneuver through the dangers of life, the Bible
will protect us. Just as a garland surrounds a head, let
God’s Word surround our soul. Then, we will walk
protected, directed, and loved.

 

With prayers for shalom, peace,
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein

If there is among you anyone in need, a member of
your community in any of your towns within the land
that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hard-
hearted or tight-fisted toward your needy neighbor.
You should rather open your hand, willingly lending
enough to meet the need, whatever it may be.

 

Deuteronomy 15:7-8

 

Voice

 

Generosity is also an act of freedom, a casting off of
the constraints of prudence and self-interest.
Marilynne Robinson

 

Prayer

 

Holy God, friend of the poor, help us to see your image
in the face of all who ask for our help, that we might
open wide our hand unto them.

 

(Verse & Voice from Sojourners. sojo.net)

A wise son heeds his father’s instruction,
but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.
Proverbs 13:1

 

Our childhood experiences help shape and form who
we are as adults. Some amazing people are able to
take a terrible childhood and become fantastic adults
anyway, but for the most part, children who are raised
well are the ones who turn out well.

 

We need to take this concept and expand it beyond
our own families. While it is true and necessary that
we must work hard to give our own children positive
experiences in childhood, consequences for
inappropriate behavior when necessary, and provide
them with opportunities that will help them thrive, we
also need to do what we can to help all children around
the world. Not just because it is the moral thing to do,
but also because it is the best thing we can do to
ensure a better future for everyone.

 

Today, consider contributing to a charity that helps
children. No child should be hungry, hurt, or afraid. As
we take care of all God’s children, we pave the way for
a brighter future – not just for our own children, but for
all children of the world.

 

With prayers for shalom, peace,
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein