All of us need inspiration to get us through the challenges of this life and to know that God is the wellspring that refreshes our spirits, gives us courage, and guides our footsteps.

Each week the Globe publishes a “Prayer for Willie” taken from a collection by Dr. Hamilton T. Boswell, to remind each of us of the presence of God in our lives, no matter what faith, denomination or interpretation we choose for ourselves.

Gracious God, You have called us to Serve You in truth with gladness and appreciation.

In appreciation for all creation, and more especially the human family, we lift up to You in particular, womanhood.

In deep appreciation and respect, we thank You for without women, we would not be.

We thank You for women, everywhere, whose courage with faith and abilities and skills have made our lives richer because they too bear the burdens, sacrifices and share acclaim in victories.

By them the world is brought further along the way.

In every aspect of human life, be it family and home, the marketplace and industry, government, education, health, religion and science, or in just being human,

We thank You Lord for women.

Amen

For information regarding Prayers For Willie, Pathways for Daily Living, please e-mail Eleanor Boswell-Raine at eleanor@theglobenewspapers.com or telephone her at 510-222-5656.

More precious than
silver or gold

In chapter three of the book of Acts, Peter and John have just experienced the birth of the Church, and are about to go up to the temple to pray.
    As they enter the temple, they see a man who had been born lame. That meant that his limbs were permanently impaired, and all he had to look forward to was begging for the rest of his life.
   When he saw Peter and John, he immediately asked for alms. However, Peter and John were poor men. So instead of giving him alms, they asked that this poor beggar look them in the eye. The beggar, thinking he was about to receive some money, looked intently at them both. Then Peter gave him something that all the silver and gold in the world could not give him. Through a miracle of God, the beggar received health and strength in both feet and ankles that had been maimed from birth. “Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have I give to thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength,” (Acts 3:6-7).
    Often, God’s plan for our life is completely different from our plan. But, God’s plan is always best. This beggar, his limbs now perfectly whole, stood up and entered the temple walking, leaping and praising God. That is always the response when God has performed a miracle in our lives. Of course, the people around the temple were in shock and wonder at this mighty miracle of God. They all ran together in a great crowd, filled with amazement.
    Peter and John did not have silver or gold, but the gift from God of a healthy body made whole through faith was far more precious to the beggar.