Prayer does not mean much when we undertake it as only an attempt to influence God, or as a search for a spiritual fallout shelter, or as an offering of comfort in stress-filled times.  Prayer is the act by which we divest ourselves of all false belongings and become free to belong to God and God alone. - Henri Nouwen

The UPF Health Crisis

Growing global concern surrounds Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and their links to Type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. UPFs typically contain five or more industrial ingredients not used in home cooking, such as emulsifiers (lecithins, mono/diglycerides, polysorbates), artificial sweeteners, colourings, and flavour enhancers. These products are highly addictive, aggressively marketed, and disproportionately targeted toward children. This is not only a North American issue but a worldwide public-health crisis. California has already launched lawsuits against major companies, echoing early efforts in the tobacco crisis, where awareness preceded regulation. Vigilant public attention and expedited court decisions are needed to address the systemic harms of UPFs.

Lord, while many have access to fresh, homegrown, slow-cooked meals, some must rely on whatever food is accessible. The tragedy is that this truth is known yet ignored, despite its impact on human flourishing. Forgive us, Lord. Strengthen and expedite the change-makers who confront harmful practices, and guide those in positions of power to respond to human needs with care, offering nourishing, affordable food rather than choices shaped only by profit. May justice and compassion guide all who shape what we eat.

Amazon Returns: The Cost of Convenience 

A recent Wirecutter article (New York Time’s product review website) chronicled their $700 purchase of a 450‑pound “mystery pallet” of Amazon returns. It revealed a startling truth about modern consumerism:, namely that our spree-buy, click‑return culture funnels thousands of products into liquidation warehouses — not reuse, but waste. What arrived as unopened electronics, home goods, clothing or décor quickly became mountains of plastic, cardboard, and clutter — a “whole heap of sadness,” as the author put it. It highlights systemic disregard for resources and environmental cost, and also the deceptive and wanton accumulation of “stuff” in order to have a life well lived. The real price of “convenience” is borne by landfills and by the creation of a throw‑away economy that masks consumerism as purpose and joy. 

Lord, may your church rise strong as a peculiar people, resistant to the world’s powerful narrative of accumulation and a non-stop invitation to bow to mammon that strips us of joy and purpose. Instead, may we heed the voice of the shepherd who says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

South East Asia Floods

Catastrophic floods and landslides driven by heavy monsoon rains and cyclones have ravaged communities across Indonesia (especially Sumatra), Sri Lanka, Thailand and beyond, killing well over 1,100 people and leaving hundreds missing. Entire villages have been submerged, infrastructure destroyed, and millions displaced. Thousands now face homelessness, food insecurity, and loss of livelihoods. This tragedy underscores a deep justice concern: vulnerable populations with the least resources suffer first and worst. 

All nations, regions, and territories call just one planet their home. Lord, hear our earth groaning. We pray for your mercy and presence in South Asia. Send aid and relief quickly, we pray. 

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

Learning from People on the Move: A Faithful Migratory Experience

Resonate Global Mission invites you to embark on a unique migratory learning journey—from Grand Rapids through Central America. This 10-day experience follows the route of migrants, offering participants the opportunity to learn from their stories, witness their faith, and connect their journeys to our own. Together, we’ll discover what it means to love our neighbors more deeply and live out God’s call to compassion and justice. Learn more here!