Forgiveness

Lord,

Heal me.  When sin tears a hole in my heart as it so often does, whisper in my ear to remind me that I all need to do is seek your forgiveness.

Make me whole again so that I can shine vibrantly for You to others.

The stain of sin still marks me as I walk this earth but your forgiveness makes me whole in the way possible while still here.  Help me to remember to continually seek forgiveness and to realize that I am so many times at fault.  But, through your mercy, I can get up again to sing your praises. 

I see your breath everywhere. 

For it surrounds me. 

When You move my heart I cannot help but see you in every glance.

Your whisper is so subtle yet so pronounced that I must always listen for it. 

Speak to my heart, oh my Lord and God, for You are marvelous indeed. 

Reach down and touch me with your forgiveness. 

And help me to take that forgiveness and extend it to those around me who hurt me.

Help me Lord Jesus to always see that you are near, even in my day to day endeavors.

Amen

Storm

Lord,

When I can see the storm coming and I need to remaining full of trust, hold my hand.

Help me to be like the other apostles who stayed in the boat and simply waited for you as you walked on the water toward them.  Yes, Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water toward You, but You were walking toward the boat anyway.  Keep my faith steady, for the waters will calm and the storm will subside as You approach. 

I know that You blow the clouds away when it is your will, and you leave the storm where it is when it is your will. I needn't know why or when or how but only that You draw near.

Help me, Lord, to always seek your Light.  You are there, ready to walk across the waters toward me, ready to embrace me.

Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and not the storm.  I am a sky gazer, and I need help keeping my eyes fixed where they should be fixed!

Amen

Reaching for You

Lord,

Help me to be steady today.  I ask for even handedness as I work and drive and speak (and take pictures).

Breathe on me, that I might let kindness flow through my hands and words and spirit.

Let me steal from St. Francis and ask that you make me an instrument of your peace.

For where there is peace, there is mercy.  Your mercy.

Let me see You, Lord.  I know You listen and hear.  Let me listen and hear what others say and not just what I think they are saying.  In listening to others, let me reach for you.  Let me reach for understanding.

Amen