Breathe in the Spirit of God as you take a few minutes to be more fully in union with God's grace. With each relaxing breath, allow the divine presence to embrace you.

Matthew 5:12

"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven."

It can be hard to see a connection between our lives and some far-off heaven. Perhaps we must practice a new way of seeing — a new vision that opens the heart's eye to heaven on earth, a new perspective that says, "Rejoice in the present." See the Lord in everything and everyone. That is a heavenly approach to daily life.

How do you rejoice in your call to discipleship?

In what ways do you see the Lord in your daily life?

(Pray to God, using this prayer or one of your own.)

O God, grace me with a rejoicing and glad heart. Bless me with saintly vision and uphold me in my times of doubt. Keep me aware, O God, of your constancy in my life.