Inspire

Last week, we observed ‘Are You Okay Day’, where we were reminded to check in with the people in our community, not just on this day, but every day. This day reminds us of the importance of connection and belonging to a community, and to God. 

Brene Brown described it beautifully when she said:

“Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued.”

As we draw near to the end of the term, and our cups inevitably become less full, it is more important than ever to connect with and check in on the people around us.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

We know that connection and belonging to a community improves our overall wellbeing, helps us to feel supported, and makes us feel safe. As we move through Week 9, through concert and into the holidays, my prayer is that we may check in with each other, and make those around us feel seen, heard and valued. In times when we are not okay or our cups are empty, may we remember that we can turn to our community and our God for love, support and connection.

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Dear God, thank you for the blessing of our wonderful community who check in on us, support us and love us. Help us to show one another Your love, grace and forgiveness as we live and work together, especially in our final weeks of the term. 

Lord, thank you for holding us when things are not okay. Help us to encourage and lift one another up so that we may be a light to one another when it is needed most. Amen.

Every day is a good day to ask, ‘are you okay?’

Submitted by Karly Bartlett