An impious man is a rational being, one that must die, who willingly runs away from life, and refuses to believe in the existence of his own everlasting Creator. A transgressor is someone who observes the divine law only in his own depraved fashion and holds on to heretical belief in opposition to God. A Christian is an imitator of Christ in thought, word and deed, as far as is humanly possible, and he believes rightly and blamelessly in the Holy Trinity. A friend of God is the one who lives in communion with all that is natural and free from sin and who does not neglect to do what good he can. (John Climacus)

We are in relationship with all of Creation. We share all that is natural. We participate in all that is natural. We hold in common with others all of Creation.

Do I live in a manner coherent with this reality?

I do not expect to be free from sin. But if I honor my relationship with others and actively cultivate the relationship, I am well on my way to becoming a friend of God.

In too many cases I have not - am not - doing what good I can. I neglect the poor, the angry, and those who make me uncomfortable.

Thank you God for the gift of discomfort, may I accept it as your help in recognizing an opportunity to see and heal what is broken.