Seeing What's Hiding

Lord,

Help me to see the good that sometimes hides.  Give me eyes to see it, for it is so much easier to sink into sadness than to always look for the good in others and the good you have placed within me.  Help me to turn the leaves over to see it and be willing to stir up my mind to never settle for sadness when You mean for me to see something else.

Help me to remember that I am a sinner and never better than anyone else.

Help me to learn how to reach out, even when it hurts.  Help me to also respect other people's space.

Lord,

Purge from me all those things that keep me from clinging to You, trusting You, and seeing You in others.  Purge from me all those things that keep me from treating everyone as if they were You.

Help me to see that no one is a waste of time because everyone was created by You, and You seek everyone to choose to be near You.

Amen

Crack Me Open

Lord,

Crack me open so that I let You in rather than running away when I am afraid, tired, or stubborn.

Let your Spirit flow within me so that I might always seek to know You better.

Show me that there are places to rest along the journey of walking with You and toward You while picking up my cross and following You.

When I rest in You, help me to remember that it is ok to truly rest; I don't have to keep one eye open while looking for danger like those who rest in only the world must do.

Lord,

Help me to remember that it is wonderful to stand out from the crowd if I am standing out for You.

For even though there are thorns that come with standing out and standing up for You, there is great beauty and reward.

Amen