Prayer 1922: For the beauty of the Earth

Creator of the Universe,
your hands have molded stars and galaxies
in all their glory,
and also this small redbud blossom
that dances and shivers in the breeze.
It too is glorious,
and soon will carpet the earth in beauty,
making way for the heart-shaped leaves
that will canopy over our heads,
glowing with resurrection light,
offering luxurious shade and refuge:
in all things offering praise to You, O God.

It is the time of the greening of the Earth:
may our spirits also be revived by your abundant love,
that we may rest in your embrace, Lord Christ,
and breathe out our prayers with the morning breeze,
secure in your lovingkindness,
grateful that you call us beloved.

Spirit of Holiness, envelop us and mold us,
that we be set on fire to do the work of love,
sustained by the beauty
You have spread before us like a banquet,
putting our hands and hearts to the cause of peace.

Let us place our hearts within your peace.
Let us pause for a while in contentment,
grateful for the wonders You have created,
O Rising Light, O Blessed Trinity,
knowing that you sustain our hearts and minds
in all our journeying and our resting.

Merciful God, Lover of Our Souls,
we place all our cares and all our loves within your hands,
and humbly ask You to set your benediction and healing
over all for whom we pray.

Amen.