April 25: Reflection on Gifts God Has Given

            May we pause to reflect on all the gifts God has given, the gifts we often overlook in our pursuit of better lives. As we constantly attempt to improve ourselves, let us not forget the talents and strengths with which God has blessed us. May we also reflect on all the wonderful people God has brought into our lives, from those who play the most minor roles to those who have changed our lives permanently. We acknowledge that these are not presents we have earned, but gifts God has freely given out of infinite love. May our reflections make us more grateful and more content with the life God has granted us today.

Photo by author

January 9: Discovery of New Interests and Passions

          We ask God to keep our lives engaging and exciting by introducing us to new interests and passions. May God grant us the courage to explore new subjects and fields with curiosity and enthusiasm. We pray God introduces us to people who lead us towards new hobbies and activities. May our discoveries grant us a life of greater attention and investment. May we find new ways to interact with our community and our world and to enjoy the life God has given us.

Photo by Ellen Kneeskern '18

October 3: Exploration of Creative Passions and Pursuits

            In the name of practicality and production, we often neglect creative passions and pursuits. But we recognize art and music as gifts from God. May we disregard profit and praise and instead learn to appreciate the act of creation itself. May artistic expression offer a respite from a hectic and critical world. We ask God to give us the courage and patience to explore different means of creation. In turn, may we use our creative pursuits to honor and glorify God.

Photo by Ellen Kneeskern '18

September 22: Discovery of Strengths in Others

            As we come to accept our shortcomings, we take comfort in the strengths of others. Let us not see others’ gifts as cause for insecurity or jealousy but as cause for celebration. We appreciate our community as an interlocking web of different talents and skills. May God guide us towards those who can help us. May we discover the strengths of our friends and help them to showcase their talents. All the while, we continue to give thanks to God for all the potential that surrounds us in this community.

Photo by Ellen Kneeskern '18

September 16: Discovery of New Talents and Skills

            God created us with great attention and care, meaning we are filled with potential we have yet to uncover. We ask for God’s guidance in discovering and developing new talents and skills this semester. May God continue to provide challenges that allow us to uncover new strengths within us. May God instill us with the curiosity to undertake new endeavors in areas where we have not yet found our gifts. Most importantly, we commit ourselves to using the talents and skills we develop to help the rest of God’s people and to help create a better world.

Photo by Ellen Kneeskern '18