THANKFUL

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Good afternoon, Jesus  

Forgive me, Lord. but I watched Netflix’s “Tiger King” docuseries. These dysfunctional people’s vulgar and shameless behaviors left me shaking my head in disbelief. Are these people real? How can anyone be so depraved? During an especially depraved episode, I donned my judicial robe and settled into my place on the self-righteous judicial bench. “Hey, boy, what’re doing?” the Holy Spirit asked.

“Whadda mean, Jesus?”

“Do you think I ration my love? I love these folks with the same fervor as I love you. Don’t you know I paid for their sins just like I did yours?”

Ouch! Forgive me again, Jesus. Then I began to see them differently—as sinners who need God’s grace and forgiveness as much as I do.

Lord, protect our friends in the health care industries, those caring for the sick, especially those in constant contact with the coronavirus infected. Guard them from this disease. Bless and protect our first responders, police, firefighters, emergency personnel and trauma center workers. May we always support them any way we can and show them our appreciation for their services. Give the divine strength and endurance to minister to the weak and needy. We ask You to bring an end to this coronavirus pandemic and may our new “normal” have us re-prioritize what is important in life. And teach us how to love one another as You love us.

Forgive our sins. May we turn from our sinful ways and return to living according to Your values and precepts.

Not judging, just loving, Jesus. Amen.