Grace is unearned and yet we are a striving people. Slow us down, Loving God, to a pace in which we are able to pause, reflect and appreciate the beauty in our midst – the kindness of a neighbor, the pink clouds of a sunrise, the purr of a beloved cat, the warmth of a hot cup of tea, a visit from an old friend. In our gratitude for so much, may we recognize that we, too, have something to offer others – a smile, a word of encouragement, an acknowledgment of their gifts. May grace not go unnoticed but rather be savored. We pray this in your holy name, God of us all. Amen.