Lord,
Because love is patient...
Help me to be slow to judge, but quick to listen.
Hesitant to critize, but eager to encourage,
Remembering your endless patience with me.

Because love is kind...
Help my words to be gentle and my actions to be thoughtful.
Remind me to smile and to say “please” and “thank you”
Because those little things still mean so much

Because love does not envy or boast, and it is not proud...
Help me have a heart that is humble and sees the good in others.
May i celebrate and appreciate all that i have ad all that i am, as well as doing the same for those around me...

Because love is not rude or self seeking...
Help me to speak words that are easy on the ear and on the heart.
When i’m tempted to get wrapped up in my own little world, remind me there’s a great big world out there full of needs and hurts

Because love is not easily angered and keeps no records of wrongs...
Help me to forgive others as you have forgiven me
When I want to hold onto a grudge, gently help me release it so i can reach out with a hand of love instead

Because love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth...
Help me stand up for what is right and good. May i defend the defenseless, and help the helpless.
Show me how I can make the difference

Because love always protects and always trusts...
Help me to be a refuge for those around me.
When the world outside is harsh and cold, may my heart be a place of acceptance and warmth

Finally, because love always preserves...
Help my heart continually beat the love for You and others
Thank you for this day when we celebrate love, and for showing us what that word really means.

Amen..

Holley Gerth