We Know

Dear Lord,

Give us eyes to see and ears to hear. We know there is light in the darkness, and you are making everything new. We know there is new life made available in your Love, wrought out of your suffering for us. We know there is a joy beyond sorrow that rejuvenates our hearts. Yes, Lord, we know that you are, that you act, that you love, that you indeed are Light, Life, and Truth. 

People, work, plans, projects, ideas, meetings, buildings, paintings, music, and literature all can only give us real joy and peace when we can see and hear them as reflections of your presence, your glory, your kingdom.

Let us then see and hear. Let us be so taken by what you show us and by what you say to us that your vision and hearing become our guide in life and impart meaning to all our concerns.

Let us see and hear what is really real, and let us have the courage to keep unmasking the endless illusions that disturb our lives every day. Now we see only in a mirror, but one day, O Lord, we hope to see you face to face.

As we draw close to you in silence…
Speak gently to us, now and in the moments that may come.
When the loud outer noises of our surroundings
and the loud inner noises of our fears
keep pulling us away from you,
help us to trust that you are still there
even when we are unable to hear you.
Give us ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying:
“Come to me, you who are overburdened, and I will give you rest . . .
for I am gentle and humble of heart.”

Let that loving voice be our guide.

In your name, Jesus,
Amen.

Inspired by the Prayers of Henri Nouwen