Prayer, day 2804

Eternal One,

who is making the heavens and the earth,
who watches over all that dwells therein,
we draw our hearts open before You,
and center ourselves within your presence,
upheld by your Spirit of Love.

The marvels of creation,
the works of your loving hand within our lives,
remind us of your unfailing love for all that is, O God,
and we sing out your praise with joy.

Merciful God,
give us a mustard-seed faith,
that spreads its branches out for the benefit of your little ones,
that welcomes and shades and shelters
all who turn to us for refuge.

By the power of the Holy Spirit,
awaken within us a spirit of charity and faithfulness,
that we may walk beside you, O Savior, in integrity.

Let us sink our roots deeply into your gospel, Lord Christ,
to be strengthened to embody your compassion and healing
as testimony to your truth
that love and reconciliation are why we are here.

Almighty Redeemer,
extend the hand of blessing and relief over all who seek you,
and grant your peace and reassurance
to those for whom we pray, O Lover of Souls.

Amen.

Prayer 2457

Beloved Creator, your hand 
has hovered like a bird over us 
through the swells and the troughs 
of the waves of night, 
and our gratitude rises to you 
like mist at the shoreline of the day. 

Strengthen our determination to live 
in integrity and truth, 
compassion and empathy, 
honoring the spark You have placed in each heart, 
down to the smallest wren, 
guided by your love, Lord Christ. 

May we be known by our love 
that reflects your commandments, O Holy One, 
and live in the imitation of Jesus, 
who showed us how to live 
according to the dream You have for us, O God. 

May we lie down at ease 
at the end of the day, 
secure in our fidelity to your truth, 
and the tenderness with which 
we have tended to each other. 

Lord, gather us into your embrace once more, 
and grant your blessing to those for whom we pray.

Amen.