“. . . and may Thy Word enrich the affections of all mankind, and govern them!” (Church Manual, p. 41). This line is from the Daily Prayer that Mary Baker Eddy directs members of The Mother Church to pray every day.
What do those words in the prayer really mean? If something is enriched, it is fortified, made richer, more valuable, more substantive. It occurred to me that if our affections are enriched, then they are spiritualized—filled with a purer, richer love for God and all of God’s children. This can’t help but result in more harmonious relationships and a more love-filled, satisfied, peaceful life.
I find that as I pray the Daily Prayer each morning, I listen for the Word of God to inspire me how to love more—more unselfishly, more tenderly, more broadly and deeply. I pray that God’s Word will direct me to who needs my love today. I ask God to show me how to be less distracted by material thinking, pursuits, pastimes, and to be more focused on loving Spirit, God. And finally, I ask God to open my eyes to how much I am loved by Her—unconditionally, completely, fully. This attention on listening for the Word has helped me love and be loved more generously. It has encouraged me to stay more on target with my prayers and study. It has helped me include more of mankind in my love and prayers. It has helped me see that what truly makes us rich or substantial is reflecting the Love that is God.
