Daily Prayer

Wednesday, August 4, 2021 A daily prayer from the New England Conference The clergy and laity of the New England Conference are sharing a daily prayer based on the Revised Common Lectionary for the week. You are welcome to use these in worship or in your own devotions. Today's Prayer 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33; Psalm 130 Dear Lord, You are a God that listens. You hear all our prayers, simple or complex, silent or spoken. Why, then, are there times when I can’t seem to find the right words? I think of soldiers in the midst of battle – surely they need not be instructed on how to pray. Sometimes I hesitate to ask for your help, knowing that the sufferings of so many others are far greater than my own. But today, my cup seems too bitter, my burden too heavy. And so, I humbly bring my cares to you. I know that whether I’m in the right, or in the wrong, you never leave me. You meet me where I am, assuring me of the power of your love, reminding me to pause often, and enter into your presence. And it’s there that I find peace from my restlessness, it’s there that I count my blessings, and it’s there that my “barometer” is reset. Your free grace renews me spiritually. Help me practice patience and kindness today, for they are the fruits of having Christ live in you. Let my faith strengthen me, so I can help lead others to the joys of knowing you. When I struggle for words, I ask that you listen to my heart. May the Holy Spirit who abides in me help make my prayers acceptable to you. Lord, everything I have, even the breath that allows me to pray this prayer, is a gift from you. I’m so grateful for your steadfast guidance, and for the unexpected, unmerited favors you’ve showered on my life. Thank you for all those who open their hearts to pardon one another, for your love’s sake. Not my will, but thy will be done. Amen. Jacqueline Hughes, Lay Member & Lay Leader, Champlain Islands Parish (Grand Isle, North Hero, & Isle LaMotte UMCs); Green Mountain District