Lord Christ, help us to see what it is

    that joins us together, 

    not what separates us.

For when we see only what it is that makes us different,

    we too often become aware

    of what is wrong with others.

We see only their faults and weaknesses,

    interpreting their actions as flowing from

    malice or hatred 

    rather than fear.

Even when confronted with evil, Lord,

    you forgave and sacrificed yourself

    rather than sought revenge.

Teach us to do the same

    by the power of your Spirit.

 

William Breault, SJ, 1926-2015

 

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Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, 

    if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, 

    if any tenderness and compassion, 

then make my joy complete by being like-minded, 

    having the same love, 

    being one in spirit and of one mind. 

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. 

Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 

    not looking to your own interests 

    but each of you to the interests of the others.