Blandina and Her Companions, Martyrs at Lyons, ca. 177 (Click on link for more)

Thank you, Lord, for challenging me to decide to serve you. The world is constantly tempting me to become absorbed in things of no eternal value. Give me courage to stand up for you in all that I do. Help me be your loving witness to family and friends so that they, too, will want to serve you. Amen.(From "Daily Texts")
1 When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion,
we were like men who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
3 The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD,
like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow in tears
will reap with songs of joy.
6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Psalm 126 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 63:15-64:9 – 2 Timothy 1:15-2:13 – Luke 11:37-52