The Daily Office for June 9, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 55
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20
Galatians 3:23-4:11
Matthew 15:1-20
Reading (Matthew 15:1-20)
Reflection
The problem with conceit, which is believing that we’re better than others, is that it causes us to be intolerant of other people’s shortcomings. It’s tough to carry others’ burdens without having a proper attitude toward them. The remedy for conceit is a good old-fashioned self-examination. Rather than comparing ourselves with other people and their ministries, we need to take an objective look at ourselves and our ministry. This objective look will reveal not what we have accomplished but what God has accomplished through us. That’s what we can take pride in – the work of God.
Carrying another person’s burdens is a huge responsibility. It’s a task that requires a proper attitude. Perhaps the best way to sum it up is to put it in physical terms. If we are going to respond to God’s call to carry the burdens of others, we need to make sure that we are in good enough spiritual shape to do some very heavy lifting. Spend some time in prayer thanking the Lord for others whose help keep you from carrying your burdens alone.
Collect for the Day
O God, the strength of all those who put their trust in you, mercifully accept our prayers and, because through the weakness of our mortal nature we can do no good thing without you, grant us the help of your grace, that in the keeping of your commandments we may please you both in will and deed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.