Morning Prayer 1/24 

Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of a loving God. 

A few months ago during dinner, as I sat with my parents and did all of my nightly complaining, my mom looked at me and just started laughing. While they normally listened to my nonsense and assured me that I would feel better eventually and should try to make the best of it, my mom came back with something different that night. She said that in April of 2020, all that I wanted was one normal day of school and I should think before complaining about the simple nuisances of almost normal everyday life. 

Following the height of the pandemic in 2020, we repeatedly heard that we should be thankful and not take anything for granted. Last fall when we returned to school, we were grateful and enthusiastic, but quickly fell back into a cycle of complaining about the monotony of life and the simple annoyances that contribute to our days. And, especially now, we have seemingly forgotten about the constant uncertainty that looms over us. 

For the past two years, I have had a quote hanging on my wall among almost 200 pictures that reads, “Love what you have before life teaches you to love what you have lost.” We often forget to appreciate relationships, people, experiences, and simple routines, until they are taken away. In this new year and beginning of a new semester filled with opportunities, I challenge you all to celebrate the monotony of certain days, appreciate the annoyances of daily routine, and be thankful for being able to surround yourself, in person, with the loving people in this community.

Let us pray.

In 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18, Paul says “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” God, please help us to be grateful for all the blessings you have bestowed upon us, both small and large. Help us to recognize that there is value and purpose in every component of each day and that we should practice gratuity whenever possible. 

Saint John Baptist De La Salle, pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever. 

Emma Prestage, Class of 2022

Morning Prayer: Jan 24, 2022