Sunday Prayer 23 June 2024

Can you believe it, God?

I’ve made it through some things in life. In this life of ministry and in all the other areas too. Like I need to tell you, huh!? And here we are. Together. It sort of knocks me out sometimes, especially when I’ve been in the middle of the…the… well, all the things. The freak out. The tumult. The chaos. The ridiculousness of ALL THE THINGS! And then, here we are, in the calm after all of it, and you’ve been here all along. Telling me to calm down. Reminding me that you’re here. I get overwhelmed, God, and sometimes I can’t see or hear you. Or remember that you are here for that matter. So thanks. Thanks for waiting for me. For never tiring of reminding me what we’re capable of doing together. And I am so grateful you don’t wait for me to get it together, cuz that’s a long time to wait.

So as I step out of the boat and into the fray today, God, help me remember this moment. This moment where I’m dripping wet with relief from realizing, remembering, experiencing your promise of everlasting love and mercy and grace. Because when I remember it’s from you and it’s about you, I can see it everywhere. In my deep and difficult discerning. And in the lambs as they lamb about the yard. And in the piglets waiting to be born. And even in ridiculous congregation members. And the things that trouble me most because they’re hard. Remind me then of you. So I can point to you instead of me.

No matter who I encounter today, God, help me do so in love. And when I fail to do that, as I certainly am dependable in that area, forgive me. Again. Because you’re so dependable that area! Amen.

Take a deep breath, dear deacon, dear pastor, dear chaplain. For your labor in the Lord is not in vain. Don’t be afraid. God is with you.