Monthly Reflection for August

Walk in love,
just as Christ also loved you ...
- Eph 5: 2

Climbing a mountain isn't easy. The mountain of our lives is an even greater challenge.

Each day, we put on our spiritual gear. Maybe we've fallen behind or slid back the day before, but today is a new day to hunger for and to "Take and eat ... Take and drink" sustenance for the journey.

We climb or crawl daily. We trust, hope, and believe in the One who beckons us with a desire we can't imagine. God sees our struggles and draws us with bands of love.

I drew them with human cords,
with bands of love.
~Hosea 11: 4

We won't continue to climb if we are weak in desire. Let us pray for each other and focus upon the Face of Christ before us. His bands of love hoist us over the mountainous terrain of our personal lives and place us upon the shoulders of His shepherding Heart.

Our Lady of Tenderness, pray for us!

God's peace to your heart!

_______________________

Prayer to Our Lady of Tenderness

Below is a prayer composed by Bishop John W. Flesey to Our Lady of Tenderness. United in heart and mind, let us pray that hearts across our globe long for and embrace the gift of Christ's peace.

Dear Lady of Tenderness,

We live in an angry and violent world. War and terrorism threaten us on all sides. We respectfully turn to you, O Mother of the Compassionate One. We beg your intercession for us, your suffering sons and daughters. Because of the intimate bond you share with your Son Jesus, our Risen Lord, we know you will hear and heed our prayer for help. Ask your Savior Son to pour forth His Peace into our minds and hearts so that we might become one truly holy family united and guided by His Holy Spirit. Amen.
~ Most Rev. John W. Flesey, STD, DD

Ave Regina Caelorum (Hail, Queen of Heaven) - An ancient Marian antiphon arranged for harp by celtic harpist, Lauren Mary Longo. Traditionally, it is said or sung after night prayer, from the Feast of the Presentation, February 2nd, through Wednesday of Holy Week. Lauren composed this original harp arrangement for Our Lady of Tenderness Hermitage.

~ Our Lady of Tenderness, pray for us! ~
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