HEAR OUR PRAYER

Is it okay to start a devotional with, “I have so much to say and nothing at all to share”? Everything is a big deal, and nothing matters. People I love are in crisis, and people halfway around the world are searching through rubble to find their loved ones. I wonder if my child is a distracted driver, while another mother worries that her child won’t survive a traffic stop. Please keep reading, though; we’re going to do this one together.

Let’s take a page from writer Anne Lamott and take a crack at what she calls the three essential prayers: Help, Thanks, Wow. It’s a fairly basic idea, not revolutionary, but it feels new. It’s not the praying so much, but being intentional about it is new to me. It takes a lot less effort than getting out for a walk each day, so what do I have to lose? Nothing. And a lot to gain.

You might tackle this once and leave it here or begin a meaningful practice, but for now, please pray with me.

God of mercy, for the people hurting, hungry, or afraid, in every corner of the planet, give them refuge and relief, especially the people of Syria and Turkey, who are suffering after the earthquake.

Holy One, thank you that _______________ arrived home safe and sound.

Creator God, we are in awe of this beautiful planet, and especially of the February snow and the warm sun in our little corner of the world that nourishes the ground and us!

God of justice, provide strength and rest to your children at dangerous and unwelcoming borders; and please help my friend, ________________, whose home feels unsafe..

Dear One, thank you for the medical professionals who care for sick bodies and minds.

Faithful friend, I am grateful for the miracle of my body that is able to walk and work and dance and play.

God who sees, heal my loved one, ________________, who struggles to be well.

Gentle Father God, thank you for surrounding me with a family and community of love and care.

Strong Mother God, thank you for every opportunity to make myself a blessing to someone today.

Help. Thanks. Wow!

Amen

Eli is a song leader at Peace. She’s turning 58 this week and committed to learning something new. Be sure to ask her how that’s going.