Category: Prayer

That this evening may be holy, good, and peaceful,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That your holy angels may lead us in paths of peace and goodwill,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may be pardoned and forgiven for our sins and offenses,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That there may be peace to your Church and to the whole world,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may depart this life in your faith and fear,
and not be condemned before the great judgment seat of Christ,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may be bound together by your Holy Spirit in
the communion of all your saints,
entrusting one another and all our life to Christ,
We entreat you, O Lord.

–from the Book of Common Prayer

Here I am, Lord.
Yours alone.

Quiet my mind.
Open my heart.
Release my hands.

I am listening.

Oh, Father, open my eyes to the beauty that fills this life! It is all around, ever-present, but I am so prone to miss it. I am seemingly surrounded with the end-of-winter browns and grays, low-hanging clouds, and chilly winds. My mind wanders to old hurts and unfulfilled dreams, then onto daily tasks, momentary disappointments. And suddenly, your goodness springs from the deep call of a red tulip! So mysterious it is, given that there is no purpose for this particular flower over any other. Your sheer delight in its every detail compels its existence.  May my soul reach for you and open to receive your grace like rain. Open my eyes and expand my soul!