Let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion.

2 Corinthians 7:1

I love polishing silver! Why do I find such satisfaction in cleaning and buffing when I could be outside building a snowman? I enjoy making something that is deeply tarnished look new again, and as I polish, I ponder God’s work of redemption. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, into this world to renew us. With loving mercy and forgiveness, He cleanses, restores, and refreshes our tarnished lives. Renewed in the spirit of our hearts and minds, we put on “the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).

Feel the joy! United with our Lord, we shine with His love! Spending time with Him in daily prayer, contemplating Scripture, and doing works of charity keep the shine bright and the tarnish away. May the lives we lead praise God. Let it be so!

Carol Monaco
Bethesda, MD

Dear Jesus, protect me from temptations that tarnish my heart and soul. Amen.

Reflect: Consider how the Lord’s love shines within you. Share it with others through your words and deeds.

Read: Zephaniah 3:17 and 1 Peter 4:8-11