June 2025 - Daily Devotions

June 1 – John 21:18-19 – (Jesus continues) “Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” (He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”

In these verses, Jesus is trying to prepare Peter for what is coming for him. ‘You will stretch out your hands’ is a technical phrase used to describe the act of stretching one’s arms out on a cross for crucifixion. ‘Fasten a belt’ is interesting in light of an early church tradition that Peter, rather than being nailed to a cross like Jesus, or tied with ropes like many others, would be strapped to the cross for his execution. Some early traditions claim that Peter asked to be strapped to his cross either upside down or on an x shaped cross so that he would not be seen in any way as an equal with Jesus. No doubt still reeling from his recent betrayal of Jesus on the night of his arrest, Peter realized that he had a long road to travel before he could approach the level of faithfulness that Jesus embodied. The phrase ‘take you where you don’t want to go’ means to lead someone away as a criminal. When Jesus says ‘follow me’ here, it means more than merely doing what Jesus has told him to do (feed his sheep.) He is telling Peter that he will have to die like Jesus for the love of people and the spread of truth. Sometimes we, too, can feel that we are being carried away by hostile forces. Sometimes these are literal forces that seek our harm or even deportation. Sometimes these forces are illnesses or powerful grief. What this passage makes clear is that there are hard times in life over which we have no control. The only thing we have is the choice of how we will respond and whether we will model our response on the life and values of Jesus even when it is difficult to do so. Most of us will not be crucified in a literal sense but, in one way or another, there will be things that must die in us (attitudes, relationships, illusions, false beliefs) for us to follow Jesus where he leads. Take a moment today to check in with yourself about how you really feel about this. Remember that hardship does not come to you as punishment, or even as some expression of God’s will. This type of hardship comes to Christians as a consequence of living the life of love in a world that does not value love but claims that it does. Even then, we are accompanied by Jesus who has gone before us. So, we have hope.

Prayer: Dear God, whatever our current circumstances, we know how to feel helpless just as Jesus describes to Peter. We cannot always change our situations. We cannot always stop the hard things from happening. Help us today to remember that, even then, you are with us and have called us to follow you. If we do that, it will be enough. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 2 – John 21:20-21 – Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them; he was the one who had reclined next to Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?”

If you have been following these devotions daily, it will be instantly clear that Peter has understood little of Jesus’ warning about his future or his call to feed the flock. This is just so Peter! Perhaps he is uncomfortable with what Jesus has just told him and needs to change the subject. Perhaps he needs a little ego boost in order to have the courage to process what Jesus has said. We don’t know for sure. Remember, that there is a diversity of scholarly opinion as to who exactly ‘the beloved disciple’ was. For us today, it doesn’t really matter because each of the disciples, actually each character in the Bible, gives us insight into our own hearts, motivations and challenges. They are like looking into a mirror and seeing both the worst we can be and the best. In these verses the beloved disciple is walking respectfully behind Jesus and Peter. He is not cutting in. He is not listening in. He is walking out his life in strange and mysterious circumstances. Apparently, that is not what Peter sees. Whether Peter is trying to shift the conversation from an uncomfortable topic or whether he just wants to be number one, one thing is clear. It is very easy to get off the mark when we begin to focus on what is happening with someone else. Peter has just heard his call. He has been warned of the hardships and now all he can think of is what is going to happen with his longtime friend and rival for leadership. Has there ever been a time when you lost sight of your goals by focusing unduly on someone else’s role? Do you ever feel that an overly competitive spirit gets in your own way? How might you better keep your eyes on Christ and not get off track by looking at what others have or do? Take a moment today to focus on your own goals and the steps you have taken and give thanks.

Prayer: Dear God, how easy it is to miss our lives by looking at the other guy. Help us today to look only to you for direction and meaning, trusting your plan for each of us to be perfect. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 3 – John 21:22 – Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!”

Peter and Jesus, walking along the beach in the early morning, have been talking about what Jesus wants from Peter going forward and what the cost to Peter will ultimately be. Whether Peter is trying to steer the conversation to less frightening ground, or whether he is still struggling with his competitive ego, he stops the conversation by trying to do comparisons with the beloved disciple. “What about that guy,” he asks. What does he mean? Does he want to know if Jesus has a big mission for the beloved disciple? Does he want to know if his longtime friend will get as prominent a place in the future church? Does he want to know if he will face the same hardships that Jesus has just told Peter will be in his future? It is not clear. What is clear is that Jesus will not play those “what about him” games. What-about-ism seems to be a favorite way for humans to deflect attention or blame these days. When we are called out on our actions, whatever they may be, we often say, “But what about so and so? She did it too, or worse.” In this instance, perhaps Peter is not being called on bad behavior but just wants assurances that he is number one, or maybe that he won’t be alone in the work. Whatever is really going on with Peter, Jesus refuses to be drawn into it or to justify his own decisions. The same is true for us. How Jesus deals with other people is Jesus’ business and not ours. Our job is to follow, trusting that even if difficulty comes, we will pass through it to newness of life, both in this life and the next. Today, spend a moment thinking about whether you judge yourself by looking at what others do or have. Remember that God has a perfect plan for you, and for all of God’s children. You can trust God with that!

Prayer: Dear God, we are grateful that you have a plan for us and for all of your children. Help us not to compare our lives and walks to others with envy or a competitive spirit. Rather, help us to walk simply, holding your hand, in confidence that where you lead is exactly where we must go for our and the world’s wholeness and salvation. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 4 – John 21:23 – So the rumor spread among the brothers and sisters that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?”

The rumor mill where people decide they know what something means by distorting the facts is not a modern invention. Taking a bit of the truth and magnifying it, or distorting it, is the stuff of ‘gossip over the back fence’ and of many a public relations office! In the wonderful movie “Something’s Gotta Give,” Jack Nicholson, an aging playboy, is thrown together with Diane Keaton in a brief passionate encounter in the Hamptons that scares Nicholson right back to New York City and his rather shallow life. In one pivotal scene, Keaton runs into him and his young date in a posh restaurant. She is crushed and leaves crying. Nicholson catches up with her on the street and utters the fabulous line, “I have always told you some version of the truth.” To which Keaton responds, “The truth doesn’t have versions.” Indeed. The truth often has more than one interpretation or implication, but the truth is just the truth. We may see it through a glass dimly as Paul says in 1 Cor. 13, but that doesn’t change the truth, only our perception of it.  Sometimes we use our partial at best perceptions, or downright misrepresentations, as weapons on one another. Scholars suggest that that is what was happening in this verse. This rumor mill about the beloved disciple was being used to discredit the Jesus movement because the beloved disciple did indeed die. How have you seen rumors or distorted facts used to manipulate or discredit others? Have you ever been the object of rumors that caused you pain or changed how others saw you? Think about these things today and monitor your own thoughts and especially your tongue!

Prayer: Dear God, we have seen in our own lives how dangerous ungrounded rumors are to individuals, peoples, movements and even churches. Help us today to be careful in our speech, to fill our hearts and minds with love and to walk in peace and humility with you. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 5 – John 21:24 – This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true.

The author of the last chapter of John is putting to rest the destructive rumors that have grown up around this story of Jesus, Peter and the beloved disciple. The word ‘written’ used here means to stand behind something, or to vouch for it. This lets the reader know that the beloved disciple told this story himself as a participant and eye witness. Today I invite you to think about your own life story. What can you stand behind? What experiences can you vouch for personally? How about in your faith journey? To what can you attest personally? Have you experienced a sense that God was calling you to do something in particular in a way similar to Jesus telling Peter to feed his lambs? Have you had the experience of walking respectfully behind others, listening, learning and offering support, like the beloved disciple in the passage we have been studying? Have you been the disciple that Jesus fed on the beach, taking in nourishment to prepare you for what comes next? Seeing our own experiences as sacred gives us a testimony that is also sacred. Think for a few moments today about the movements of God in your life and the story you can stand behind.

Prayer: Dear God, help us today to see your footsteps with us in all of life. We have stories of wonder and grace to share. Help us to know those that need to hear from us. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 6 – John 21:25 – But there are also many other things that Jesus did; if every one of them were written down, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.

Jesus is alive and at work! He always has been and always will be. He is not confined by time or tradition. He never has been and never will be. He, in the eternal dance of love that is the Godhead, is even now filling the universe with love, beauty, purpose, justice and hope. Amen! This last verse of John’s gospel is expansive about who Jesus is and what he does. Gerard Sloyan in his commentary on John paraphrases the last phrase of this verse as “Lest the world be crowded to unliveability with the ledger of his deeds.” Isn’t that an amazing way to end the amazing gospel of John? One of the wonderful things about this closing is that it calls us to no small amount of humility. There are stories we do not know, both from Jesus’ earthly life and his risen life. God always speaks to God’s people both personally and communally and uses what language and images that will connect. So today take a moment to reflect on the wondrousness of what we do not know and the sweet grace of what the scriptures and our experiences allow us to know. Within those gifts, hope arises!

Prayer: Dear God, we thank you that you are bigger than our own knowing. We thank you that you are still at work in so many ways we could never name nor number. Help us today to live with hope, gratitude and humility in the presence of your great love. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

June 7 – Matthew 5:13 – You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored?

As we end our Great Fifty Days of Easter celebration, it might be helpful for us to consider what Jesus as done in resurrection and commissioning us for his ongoing mission through us. Today’s verse offers a beautiful metaphor with which we can look at our mission. In Biblical times, salt was a preservative and a flavor enhancer. It was also understood as a metaphor for close relationships between believers, much as we would use the word fellowship today. To ‘share salt’ meant to share in all of the intimacy of the family of faith. Salt did not lose its taste by some strange chemical process, but rather, by being mixed with so many other elements that its flavor was overshadowed. When Jesus call us salt, he means that we add flavor and zest to the world. He tells us in this poetic way that we live in bonded relationships and that we have the capacity to preserve precious and valuable things. He recognizes, as well, that this power can be lost if diluted. It is much easier to maintain our saltiness that to restore it. Are there ways that you have lost your zest? Have you let precious things become spoiled? Have you failed to nurture healthy relationships in your personal life or with your faith community? Take a moment to ponder Jesus’ question, “How can your saltiness be restored?”

Prayer: Dear God, help us to see ourselves as we are. Remove any impurity from us and show how to live for you. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

Summer with the Psalms

Today we start our summer Praying with the Psalms challenge. The book of Psalms is the family prayer book of the people of God. It offers us ways to take every emotion conceivable to God in prayer, often with wild rides even in one verse! Most often the psalms were sung or chanted, often antiphonally in worship. However we address them today, they have the capacity to open us up to ourselves, and before God, in profound poetic ways. Because the Psalms are poetry and song, it is best not to literalize them, but to let them open up inside of us as the Spirit deems best. Each day I will share a verse and invite you to pray it as your daily practice. In rotation, I will also teach you about the Four Pillars of Prayer, a method of praying that dates back to the early monastic period. In those days in convents and monasteries, those who came to the communities came for a variety of reasons, not all of which had to do with deep religious conviction. For women in particular, some came because families could not afford their care, or it was the only place that a woman could get an education. The immersion  into a life of prayer had to be carefully taught. The young novices prayed together every three hours around the clock. In their first days, to help them learn and remember, they were asked to turn to a particular pillar that held up the chapel roofs and pray in one way, then to the next and a different method and on around the four pillars. I will be introducing those ways as we move through the summer. To begin with, we will practice one of the pillars for six days, and then the next and so forth so that you can get an understanding of each stance. Later we will move through the four pillars in order. I hope this summer praying with our family prayer book in Scripture will help you feel a renewed companionship with God and each other. I will be praying along with you! Love, Eugenia

June 8 – Psalm 46:1-2a “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore, we will not fear..”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘refuge.’ Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for each of us. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, help me today to nestle into you. If fear and worry enter my mind, turn my thoughts to you, trusting you for everything I need today.  Amen.

June 9– Psalm 46: 10a “Be still and know that I am God!”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘be’ or ‘know’ or even ‘and’. Let the Spirit guide you. Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for us today. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, I am rattled and frazzled! There is more to do than I can do. Still me, O God, quiet my heart and mind. Remind me that you are God, so I don’t have to be.  Amen.

June 10 - Psalm 46:11 “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘Lord’ or even ‘with.’ Let the Spirit guide you. Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for us today. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, you have been faithful to us throughout all time. I thank you that I can find refuge and peace in your today. I know you are with me, and it is enough!  Amen.

June 11 - Psalm 47:1 “Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy.”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘songs’ or ‘joy’ or even ‘clap.’ Let the Spirit guide you. Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for us. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, what a beautiful day, sun or rain, warm or cold, the world is filled with your exquisite creativity. O God, I rejoice in you. If I become glum, today, remind me of this moment!  Amen.

June 12 - Psalm 47:2 “For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome…”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘Lord’ or ‘most high’ or even ‘awesome.’ Let the Spirit guide you. Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for us today. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, I have no adequate words to describe your greatness and majesty. When I think of you, I am humbled to my core. Thank you God for befriending me, for forgiving so much and loving me still.  Amen.

June 13   - Psalm 48:1 “Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised…”

Today, I invite you to find a place where you can be comfortable and undisturbed for a few moments. Read the verse aloud slowly three times. Try to slow your reading a bit with each repetition. Each time you read, try emphasizing a different word. Is there a word that seems to resonate with you especially today? If so, take a moment to just sit with that word. For example, your word might be ‘great’ or ‘greatly’ or even ‘to be praised.’ Let the Spirit guide you. Ask God why that word leapt out at you today? Repeat it again and again in your mind. See if God raises something for you to consider. Take a moment to ponder that. This is the first pillar of prayer: Lectio, the prayerful encounter of the word. In this stance of prayer, we invite God to awaken our hearts to the word for the day and help us experience the unique gift that the word has for us today. When you complete your lectio, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, today I want to focus on praise.  When I praise you there is no room in me for doubt, anxiety or fear. It is like I turn into a drop of joy.  All day long, may my experiences each remind me of your glory.  Amen.

June 14    - Psalm 48:9  “We ponder your steadfast love, O God…”

Today we turn our hearts to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer, and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally, this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience, it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that on both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, when I consider your love for me, I can hardly take it in. Help me please, to show a glimpse of that love to others today.  Amen.

June 15    - Psalm 48:10  “Your name, O God, like your praise, reaches to the ends of the earth.”

Today we turn our hearts again to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio, from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, Oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer, we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many, this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience, it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that on both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, our world contains so much sorrow.  Help me to remember that you are always there with the hurting and give me courage to work tirelessly on their behalf.  Amen.

June 16  - Psalm 49:5a  “Why should I fear in time of trouble?...”

Today we turn our hearts again to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio, from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer, we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience, it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that on both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, why in the world am I ever afraid?  In the end there is nothing that can ever harm me. Take my fears and fill up their place with love and peace.  Amen.

June 17     Psalm 50:3a “Our God comes and does not keep silence…”

Today we turn our hearts again to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio, from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that in both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the many large and small ways that you speak to me this day. Open my heart to hear you and to respond to your leading. Amen.

June 18   Psalm 50:6a  “The heavens declare God’s righteousness.”

Today we turn our hearts again to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio, from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience, it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that in both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, last night the stars seemed to smile at me. It was your smile, spread across the heavens. Help me to notice your handiwork today. Amen.

June 19-   Psalm 51:1a  “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love.”

Today we turn our hearts again to the second pillar of prayer called Oratio, from the Latin word for prayer itself. This way of praying is sometimes called heart prayer and may feel a bit more familiar to you. Oratio is a way of releasing the heartbreak and fear we all carry. Sometimes the hurt is fleeting, sometimes it is deeply rooted in our hearts. In either case, oratio invites us to release it all to God. In this prayer we offer our deepest truth to God in a position of openness and trust. Traditionally this prayer was prayed standing with arms outstretched to the side. This is a stance of openness and submission. Our tender under bellies are exposed to God, much like a pup may expose her tummy as a sign of submission. In oratio, we don’t just release our hurts, disappointments or fears. We breathe deeply their release and honor the spaces within us that they leave behind, even if just for a moment. When we release our hurts to God, when we are ready, we then invite gratitude to fill those spaces. When we introduce gratitude into the places where pain once dwelt, it will inevitably come in with its lovely long train of joy, peace and encouragement. For many this is the easiest pillar of prayer. Or seems so. In my experience it is only easy when we remain superficial and share with God only the retouched versions of ourselves. You may want to begin on the surface of things. That is a great way to begin. Just don’t stay there and use this time like a kind of magic wand or white washed soliloquy of self-justification. All relationships deepen with real honesty. It is true with our relationship with God as well. If you have ever in a human relationship heard your partner say, “We need to talk” there is a bit of that in both sides or oratio. Remember though that, unlike some human relationships, God is always seeking the good and will never walk away, even if you do. So today, read your verse aloud slowly and prayerfully, and then tell God everything that is on your heart. When you are ready, you may close your prayer time with the following prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

                Prayer: Dear God, I just never seem to get it quite right. I fall short of your ways so often. Forgive me, God, and remind me of your great love for me. Amen.

June 20   Psalm 51:2  “Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sins.

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm is one of the most powerful examples of a prayer of confession. It also shows the power of self-awareness of one’s faults and the longing for cleansing and new starts. Notice if those themes arise in your meditation.

                Prayer: Dear God, I need a spiritual shower today!  Take away the grime of failure and rinse me sparkling clean. Amen.

June 21   Psalm 51:6  “You desire truth in the inward being; therefore, teach me wisdom in my secret heart.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm is one of the most powerful examples of a prayer of confession. It also shows the power of self-awareness of one’s faults and the longing for cleansing and new starts. Notice if those themes arise in your meditatio.

                Prayer: Dear God, help me to listen today more than speak. Make me a teachable creature.  Amen.

June 22  Psalm 51:10  “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm is one of the most powerful examples of a prayer of confession. It also shows the power of self-awareness of one’s faults and the longing for cleansing and new starts. Notice if those themes arise in your meditatio.

                Prayer: Dear God, fill me with newness today, even if I seem stuck and feel very old.  Remind me that with you I can start afresh. Amen.

June 23 Psalm 51:15 “O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm is one of the most powerful examples of a prayer of confession. In today’s verse the psalmist is full of confidence and gratitude for forgiveness and growth. He wants opportunities to share what has happened to him. Notice if those themes arise in your meditatio.

                Prayer: Dear God, please give me the opportunity to bless others today by sharing your goodness and love. Amen.

June 24  Psalm 52:8b – “I trust the steadfast love of God forever and ever.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm deals with the consequences of living in deceitful and unjust ways. In this verse we see the great theme of trust in God that is rooted in God’s steadfast love for us. Notice if that theme arise in your meditation.

                Prayer: Dear God, sometimes my trust seems to falter. I believe but I have trouble relying upon you when things get difficult. Deepen by trust, O God, that I can live in peace and witness in joy.  Amen.

June 25  Psalm 52:9a  “I will thank you forever, because of what you have done.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm deals with the consequences of living in deceitful and unjust ways. Today’s verse invites us to become aware of and reflect upon all that God has done for us, particularly in forgiveness and new starts. Notice if those themes arise in your meditatio.

                Prayer: Dear God, you have saved me more times that I even know. Without your care and provision I know I would not even be alive. I thank you forever!  Amen.

June 26 – Psalm 52:9b “In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good.”

Today we turn to the third pillar of prayer: meditatio. This pillar is not to be confused with what we more commonly think of as meditation. (That has more similarities to the fourth pillar that we will learn in a few days.) While oratio focuses on our feelings, meditatio focuses on our thoughts, how we make sense of our lives, our spiritual journey’s and the scriptures that are the sign posts along our walk. In meditatio we open our hearts and minds to the questions that arise from the scripture upon which are focusing. In this form of prayer, we read the verse, or larger passage, before us over several times. In that process we ask questions of God as it relates to the passage. Such as, “Lord, what would you have me consider today? What is the needed gift you have for me in this verse? What do I learn about you in this verse that can help me grow? What do you want to teach me about myself in these words? Does this word help burn away illusions or delusions that are holding me back or stunting my relationship with you or others? What is the context of this verse? How do you desire to expand my understanding by pondering this verse so that I can move forward more fully in your will? To help you with this, I suggest that you write the verse in your own hand as a part of your prayer and then after you close your prayer, take a few notes about what God has taught you in this time of prayer. Don’t become concerned if you don’t see much early on. As you practice this type of prayer your spirit will open wider, and insights and direction will emerge in just the right time. It will be so wonderful to look back over these notes over the weeks or years and see the themes or patterns of how God uses this time to help you. Today’s psalm deals with the consequences of living in deceitful and unjust ways. Today’s verse reminds us that gratitude and praise are not simply individual realities. They are to be shared in the worshiping community. Notice if those themes arise in your meditatio.

                Prayer: Dear God, please give me courage today to speak of you, and to use words if I have to. Amen.

June 27 – Psalm 53:1 “Fools say in their hearts, ‘There is no God.’”

Today we turn to the fourth pillar of prayer, contemplatio (contemplation). Contemplative prayer is a way of letting go and resting in the presence of God without agenda or expectation. Ordinarily this type of prayer is enjoyed in silence. In the silence we let go of our egos constant agendas and simply open ourselves to rest in the presence of God. In the old revival traditions of the American South this is often spoken of as resting in the arms of Jesus. If the scripture of the day raises a praise filled spirit in you, you might read the text, settle yourself quietly in a stance of praise, breathe deeply and begin your silence by saying simply “I am here.” As in today’s verse the text might give you a sense of uneasiness, or even judgment of others. In that case, you might begin by trying to release your judgmental thoughts to God, or your worried or fearful ones. You might imagine each thought as a little boat floating down a flowing river, or as a rock that you toss into a pond. Once that clutter is cleared a bit, begin your contemplatio ( by saying, “I am hear.” It is very helpful in this style of prayer not to harshly judge yourself if you can’t find any internal quiet. Intruding thoughts are natural. Simply notice them and send them down the river in little boats as well. Even if you can only really rest agenda-less with God for a split second, it is powerful and transformative. So don’t give up on this method if it feels like you are not ‘doing it right.’ Coming before God and saying, “I am here” is powerful in its own right. Some people find it helpful to ‘pray between the words’ if contemplatio is hard or uncomfortable. To do that, visualize in your mind the verse you are praying with. Focus your attention on the first word, really focus, for a few moments. Then go to the second word and do the same. After you have focused on the second word, let your mind’s eye drift to the space between the words. You may experience a vastness in that space that allows you to enter into the silence and rest of God for a moment. I love to pray in this way! I often find that my mind’s eye sees the whole expanse of the universe in that tiny space. For me, at least, it is beautiful and healing. It resets and releases agendas in the presence of the vast glory of God. You may close your prayer with the daily prayer below, or the Lord’s prayer. As you move again into the verbal world, though, take a moment to silently, with your whole spirit, thank God for God’s nearness and comfort.

                Prayer: Dear God, I pray today for those who do not know you, those who cannot believe in you, those who must wind their way so alone. Touch them, God. Use me, if you will it. I pray as well for myself and all the ways that I do not yet know you or myself. Give me peace for the journey. Amen.

June 28 – Psalm 53:2  “God looks down from heaven on humankind to see if there are any who are wise, who seek after God.”

Today we turn to the fourth pillar of prayer, contemplatio. Contemplative prayer is a way of letting go and resting in the presence of God without agenda or expectation. Ordinarily this type of prayer is enjoyed in silence. In the silence we let go of our egos constant agendas and simple open ourselves to rest in the presence of God. In the old revival traditions of the American South this is often spoken of as resting in the arms of Jesus. If the scripture of the day raises a praise filled spirit in you, you might read the text, settle yourself quietly in a stance of praise, breathe deeply and begin your silence by saying simply “I am here.” As in today’s verse the text might give you a sense of uneasiness, or even judgment of others. In that case, you might begin by trying to release your judgmental thoughts to God, or your worried or fearful ones. You might imagine each thought as a little boat floating down a flowing river or as a rock that you toss into a pond. Once that clutter is cleared a bit, begin your contemplatio by saying, “I am hear.” It is very helpful in this style of prayer not to harshly judge yourself if you can’t find any internal quiet. Intruding thoughts are natural. Simply notice them and send them down the river in little boats as well. Even if you can only really rest agenda-less with God for a split second, it is powerful and transformative. So don’t give up on this method if it feels like you are not ‘doing it right.’ Coming before God and saying, “I am here” is powerful in its own right. Some people find it helpful to ‘pray between the words’ if contemplatio is hard or uncomfortable. To do that, visualize in your mind the verse you are praying with. Focus your attention on the first word, really focus, for a few moments. Then go to the second word and do the same. After you have focused on the second word, let your mind’s eye drift to the space between the word. You may experience a vastness in that space that allows you to enter into the silence and rest of God for a moment. I love to pray in this way! I often find that my mind’s eye sees the whole expanse of the universe in that tiny space. For me, at least, it is beautiful and healing. It resets and releases agendas in the presence of the vast glory of God. You may close your prayer with the daily prayer below, or the Lord’s prayer. As you move again into the verbal world, though, take a moment to silently, with your whole spirit, thank God for God’s nearness and comfort.

                Prayer: Dear God, when I look around our public life these days, I do not see a lot of wisdom. Find us, O God, and show us your ways.  Amen.

June 29 – Psalm 53:6a  “O that deliverance for Israel would come from Zion!”

Today we turn to the fourth pillar of prayer, contemplatio. Contemplative prayer is a way of letting go and resting in the presence of God without agenda or expectation. Ordinarily this type of prayer is enjoyed in silence. In the silence we let go of our egos constant agendas and simple open ourselves to rest in the presence of God. In the old revival traditions of the American South this is often spoken of as resting in the arms of Jesus. If the scripture of the day raises a praise filled spirit in you, you might read the text, settle yourself quietly in a stance of praise, breathe deeply and begin your silence by saying simply “I am here.” As in today’s verse the text might give you a sense of uneasiness, or even judgment of others. In that case, you might begin by trying to release your judgmental thoughts to God, or your worried or fearful ones. You might imagine each thought as a little boat floating down a flowing river or as a rock that you toss into a pond. Once that clutter is cleared a bit, begin your contemplatio by saying, “I am hear.” It is very helpful in this style of prayer not to harshly judge yourself if you can’t find any internal quiet. Intruding thoughts are natural. Simply notice them and send them down the river in little boats as well. Even if you can only really rest agenda-less with God for a split second, it is powerful and transformative. So don’t give up on this method if it feels like you are not ‘doing it right.’ Coming before God and saying, “I am here” is powerful in its own right. Some people find it helpful to ‘pray between the words’ if contemplatio is hard or uncomfortable. To do that, visualize in your mind the verse you are praying with. Focus your attention on the first word, really focus, for a few moments. Then go to the second word and do the same. After you have focused on the second word, let your mind’s eye drift to the space between the word. You may experience a vastness in that space that allows you to enter into the silence and rest of God for a moment. I love to pray in this way! I often find that my mind’s eye sees the whole expanse of the universe in that tiny space. For me, at least, it is beautiful and healing. It resets and releases agendas in the presence of the vast glory of God. You may close your prayer with the daily prayer below, or the Lord’s prayer. As you move again into the verbal world, though, take a moment to silently, with your whole spirit, thank God for God’s nearness and comfort.

                Prayer: Dear God, today I pray for your holy land and all the peoples who call it home, in Gaza, Israel, and all the surrounding lands. Help the world’s people to find their rest in you. Amen.

June 30 – Psalm 54:1  “Save me, O God, by your name, and vindicate me by your might.”

Today we turn to the fourth pillar of prayer, contemplatio. Contemplative prayer is a way of letting go and resting in the presence of God without agenda or expectation. Ordinarily this type of prayer is enjoyed in silence. In the silence we let go of our egos constant agendas and simple open ourselves to rest in the presence of God. In the old revival traditions of the American South this is often spoken of as resting in the arms of Jesus. If the scripture of the day raises a praise filled spirit in you, you might read the text, settle yourself quietly in a stance of praise, breathe deeply and begin your silence by saying simply “I am here.” As in today’s verse the text might give you a sense of uneasiness, or even judgment of others. In that case, you might begin by trying to release your judgmental thoughts to God, or your worried or fearful ones. You might imagine each thought as a little boat floating down a flowing river or as a rock that you toss into a pond. Once that clutter is cleared a bit, begin your contemplatio by saying, “I am hear.” It is very helpful in this style of prayer not to harshly judge yourself if you can’t find any internal quiet. Intruding thoughts are natural. Simply notice them and send them down the river in little boats as well. Even if you can only really rest agenda-less with God for a split second, it is powerful and transformative. So don’t give up on this method if it feels like you are not ‘doing it right.’ Coming before God and saying, “I am here” is powerful in its own right. Some people find it helpful to ‘pray between the words’ if contemplatio is hard or uncomfortable. To do that, visualize in your mind the verse you are praying with. Focus your attention on the first word, really focus, for a few moments. Then go to the second word and do the same. After you have focused on the second word, let your mind’s eye drift to the space between the word. You may experience a vastness in that space that allows you to enter into the silence and rest of God for a moment. I love to pray in this way! I often find that my mind’s eye sees the whole expanse of the universe in that tiny space. For me, at least, it is beautiful and healing. It resets and releases agendas in the presence of the vast glory of God. You may close your prayer with the daily prayer below, or the Lord’s prayer. As you move again into the verbal world, though, take a moment to silently, with your whole spirit, thank God for God’s nearness and comfort.

                Prayer: Dear God, help me to give up the need to control how others think of me.  Help me to leave that to you. Amen.