Strengthening Relationships through God’s Love During Easterside
Day 5: Reflection on Closeness in Relationships
Theme: Building Deeper Connections Through Vulnerability
First Reading:
Acts 8:1-8
“Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.”
Responsorial Psalm:
Psalm 66:1-3a, 4-5, 6-7a
“Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.”
Gospel:
John 6:35-40
“For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life.”
Reflection:
In Acts 8, despite persecution, the apostles continue to spread the word of God. This teaches us about vulnerability in relationships—choosing to be open and share God’s love, even when there are risks involved. True closeness in relationships requires us to be vulnerable, allowing others to see our hearts and to share in both our joys and struggles.
The Gospel reinforces this by reminding us that eternal life is found in trusting Jesus, who gives Himself completely to us. In relationships, closeness grows when we trust one another and share our deepest selves, just as Jesus shared Himself with us.
Action/Practice:
Identify one relationship where you feel distant or disconnected. Take a step toward closeness today by sharing something personal or vulnerable with that person.
Daily Goal:
Focus on building closeness by offering trust and vulnerability in a relationship, and see how it deepens your connection.
Journaling Prompt:
“Where do I feel distant in my relationships, and how can I take a step toward greater vulnerability and trust today?
Screen Time Focus
Screen Time Focus
Excessive phone use can fuel stress and avoidance during challenging emotional moments. Instead, use Pomodoro sessions to build resilience and reflect on how to deal with conflicts with grace. The goal is to use your screen-free time for resilience-building activities like prayer, journaling, or deep reflection.
Daily Goal for Screen Time
Limit your screen time to 2 hours today. Spend the time you save building emotional resilience, reflecting on conflict resolution, or engaging in prayer.
Journal Prompt for Screen Time
“How did reducing my screen time today help me focus on resilience in my relationships and my connection with God?”
Day 6 Addendum: Screen Time Focus
Screen Time Focus
Phone distractions can get in the way of offering loving accountability to others. Pomodoro sessions help you stay focused on giving gentle feedback and holding others accountable in a healthy, compassionate way, without digital distractions that may delay or divert meaningful conversations.
Daily Goal for Screen Time
Limit your screen time to 2 hours today. Use the time saved to engage in accountability—offering feedback or checking in with someone to ensure healthy relationship dynamics.
Journal Prompt for Screen Time
“How does accountability in relationships strengthen trust and growth? How did reducing my screen time help me stay present in offering accountability?”