I was inspired by the discussions here about taking youth seriously as followers of God. It set me thinking about my masters classes at Notre Dame, where I often wondered why we assume the people of God must be persuaded or coerced into falling in love with the God we know. These questions have emerged for me periodically in church servant contexts ever since. I often wonder if it is just exhaustion. So here is my prayer for the liturgical professional who might, in exhaustion, be nearing the edge of his or her trust. Lent of course brings high demands for liturgical professionals. Still, may the journey of Lent, increased workload and all, confirm you all in faith — and may God bring in the harvest when you’re too tired to lift the sickle.
God, lover of all humanity,
with single-minded fervour you pursue sinners throughout history.
Forgive my doubts and restore to me the joy of my vocation.
Spirit of revelation,
you led Christ into the desert and made the wilderness the place of redemption.
Grant me time and patience to wander even if I do not know your path.
Jesus, Word of Truth and author of salvation,
at a well in Samaria, you found an unexpected witness to your truth.
Open my eyes to the witnesses among your people and renew my faith in your work.
Jesus, Healer and Liberator,
you sought the man born blind in the street to reveal yourself to him.
Run after me, too, and all those I serve, that we may recognize your endless love.
Jesus, Resurrection and Life,
you called to Lazarus when all hope seemed lost.
Free me from the tomb of hopeless striving and reveal the light of your grace.
Jesus, King of Israel and Son of David,
you came into the world with a Gloria
and left it with a wordless cry.
You brought joy back in the morning
and offered it to the whole world on the third day.
Grant me this Lent patience and renewal,
repentance and trust,
and confirm me in faith and hope.
In your name I pray.
Please leave a reply.