
But there is another and I think much better way to look at things. Why not look at the week ahead as a time for a new beginning, as a promise of better things to come. After all, God is always nearby and He loves us. He just wants us to turn our attention to Him and let Him work His magic through us and for us. Won't you join me for a Monday morning prayer of promise?
Dear Lord: We thank you for all of the wonders of this world and this life that you have so graciously given us. But we also know that we have disappointed you, for sometimes we become self-centered and seek only what we want and what we expect from you, forgetting that purpose for which we were made, which is to serve you and put you first.
Help us to use this Monday morning as a first step of a new beginning, a beginning during which we get our priorities straight and our lives and our purpose in proper order. Rain or shine, the elements that you have given us serve a wonderful purpose, for the rain is needed to quinch the thirst of all things and the sun gives energy and vibrance and the glorious light and warmth so needed as well. And help us to use these elements to nurture the earth and all that is herein in our role as stewards of all living things.
We also know that we should not be fearful, for with you at our side we cannot go wrong, yet we sometimes allow our minds to wander and become afraid and lonely when you are always here with us to keep us sound and on track. Open our hearts and our eyes to your wonders and help us to see things as you want us to, not as our frail and mortal selves sometimes fail to do.
We worry about our loved ones and our nation and the direction we are headed, particularly in a time when so many have turned from you. Instead of being filling with worry, help us to focus instead on your love and grace, always knowing that through you anything is possible, and help us to use that knowledge to serve as missionaries for your purpose in all that we say and do. We must be bold about it, not meek and we must be strong to answer the challenges it will bring, but keep us always mindful that you are with us as our guide and protector.
Take our doubts away, fill us with your love and your spirit in all that we do, remembering that if we live for you we will inherit a place at your table with you and the Son, Jesus Christ, when this life is done. We ask in the name of Jesus who lived and died so that we might have the opportunity to truly live in freedom: freedom from sin. Amen
Keep the Holy Spirit in your heart always and you will maintain that most important connection of life: your link to the Son and through Him to the Father. Have a wonderful Monday living His way.