The Quote:
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” – Buddha
Wisdom from Scripture:
Psalm 16: 9-11 (NIV)
“Therefore, my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.11 You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.”
Philemon 1:4-7 (NIV)
” I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5 because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus. 6 I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. 7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.”
Prayer:
God of all joy, you call us into community. You encourage us to share our joys and sorrows as brothers and sisters in Christ. Enable us, we pray, to rejoice with one another and to help others carry their burdens of grief, sorrow, despair. Today we thank you for all young mothers and fathers in our community, and for all who have overcome great challenges in life. We rejoice with them and ask that you continue to bless them.
Amen.