September 5.  Value and affirm the good.  Fr Peter had discussed with the PPC the possibility of having a couple talent competition but they had decided that it might embarrass some of the shyer people. Instead he would invite families at home as couples and as families to honour their married couples by affirming what they saw as particularly good in them as a couple and of course for couples to share the good they see in their spouse. Using the words, “The Lord who does all things well,” from the gospel they should consider in what ways they give glory to God through the particular gifts God has given them. Behold your God will come with vengeance, with recompense of God. He will save you. Then shall the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.  Then shall the lame man leap like a deer and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.  For water shall break forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert, the burning sand shall become a pool and the thirsty ground springs of water.   Is 35:4-7.  Should man aspire to be pure spirit and to reject the flesh as pertaining to his animal nature alone then spirit and body would both lose their dignity. Anyone who wishes to give love must also receive love as a gift.  AL 157 

Questions for SHARING AND ACTION  – for couples, individuals or groups

For couples:  How well do I use my eyes, ears and tongue in seeing the good in my spouse, listening lovingly and affirming him or her?   How willing am I to acknowledge my own gifts within our marriage? Share on these special qualities with each other and take some time out together to show that appreciation of each other. 

For others in the community: Share on some of the good you see in the marriages of those around you. Consider ways to affirm and encourage couples in their marriage, sharing how valuable their relationship is for others.  

ECO-TIP AND PRAYER:  Look for and affirm something positive that you value in your world?  Pray the Glory be …….