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Paso Robles, CA

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

“‘What day is it?’ asked Pooh. ‘It’s today,’ squeaked Piglet. ‘My favorite day,’ said Pooh.” ~ A. A. Milne

There is a lot to be said about living in the moment. Practicing Mindfulness can help us to be in the moment. To know that we are right here, right now, and that is all that matters. This allows us to appreciate each moment, each day, for what it is. It helps us to see people in a new light each day and to take time to truly listen, appreciate, and treasure them. Living mindfully in each moment is challenging as our minds dwell in regret of the past and fear of the future. Sometimes it helps to take a moment to fully enjoy something like a delicious iced latté with a loved one on a beautiful patio being fully present just enjoying where you are and who you are with right then. Intentional moments like this can help free us from the weight of long-term suffering, pain, and judgment in our lives and in the world.

This is nothing new. Psalm 118 blesses us with ancient words of wisdom to help God’s people live in the moment. It focuses on this day helping us to rejoice in the midst of concerns because brought God us into it. That willy, nilly, silly old Pooh bear also reminds us in his mellow way to live and delight in today. Pooh treasures his friend Piglet and sees each day with new eyes of delight. Jesus affirms all of this when he teaches the disciples to pray in Matthew 6, “Give us today our daily bread…” and when he tells them “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Instead Jesus encourages the disciples to love God, forgive each other, and serve God and others with love in faith.

So on this day, I share a daily Loving Compassion Meditation with you. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and pray these words in this moment and in a moment of your choosing each day:

  • May I be safe
  • May I be happy
  • May I be healthy
  • May I live with ease
  • May you be safe
  • May you be happy
  • May you be healthy
  • May you live with ease
  • May the world be safe
  • May the world be happy
  • May the world be healthy
  • May the world live with ease

In the moment, Pastor Andrea