Pause+Pray

Today, reflect on this passage where the word firstfruits appears: “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Cor 15:20).

In Western culture, sometimes there is a lack of respect and care for the elderly among us. There is such wisdom, virtue, and strength of character we can learn and appreciate from the generations older than us.

It can sometimes feel like we are journeying through the desert with no end in sight. But it’s often in the desert that we learn the most about God, ourselves, and what we are grateful for in the present.

A still life painter or an artistic photographer helps us see something as ordinary as bread, bird or pear with new appreciation. If we don’t pause to thank, we might assume such mini-blessings will always be there.

There are so many situations in life that can make us feel utterly helpless.

One of the key challenges we often face is the need to build consensus among diverse individuals with varying perspectives, opinions, and priorities.