Heartfelt Prayers
A Prayer by William Barclay:
O God, Our Father, we know our own weakness.
Our minds are darkened, and by ourselves we cannot find and know the truth.
Our wills are weak, and by ourselves we cannot resist temptation, or bring to its completion that which we resolve to do.
Our hearts are fickle, and by ourselves we cannot give to you the loyalty which is your due.
Our steps are faltering, and by ourselves we cannot walk in your straight way.
So this day we ask you,
To enlighten us;
To strengthen us;
To guide us, that we may know you, and love you, and follow you all the days of our life.
Give to your Church your blessing and your protection.
Guide her in her thinking, that she may be saved from the heresies which destroy the faith.
Strengthen her in her witness, that she may bring no discredit on the name she bears.
Inspire her in her fellowship, that those who enter her may find within her your friendship and the friendship of their fellow men.
— From Prayers for the Christian Year by William Barclay
Reflection:
Behold — Where are the eyes of your heart drawn into this prayer?
Believe — How is your faith strengthened in this prayer?
Belong — Who are you recalling as you pray this prayer?
Become — What is God inviting you to receive and thereby become as you pray this prayer?
