The prayer I spoke at the end of Sunday’s message (3/22/09) is a Franciscan Benediction. I first heard it in a message by Craig Groeschel, pastor of Lifechurch.tv in Oklahoma City. I’ve got to give credit to our worship pastor, Ted Kim, for thinking to use it this week.
It is one of those prayers you’re afraid to pray because it is almost certain to be answered. I find myself wondering, “Do I really want this?” Though I may be reluctant, the answer is yes.
Here it is so that you can pray it on your own.
May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.
May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in the world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
Amen.
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