Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Do not depart from us. Draw close so we can feel your breath and hear your voice. Guide us, once again, into your light, to the eternal safety and rest of your Holy Mountain.

We enter your sacred prayer space full of questions and concerns. You invite us into your mystery. You light a candle for us–a reminder of your presence. We see the light dancing with darkness; your spirit is in the darkness as it is in the light. We burn our incense and tobacco in ceremonies of worship. Join us in our ceremony, O LORD. We create room for you to draw close to us.

We enter your sacred prayer space, feeling pressed on all sides. You give us a glimpse of your mighty arms embracing us. Your breath is on our necks. Your lips are upon our ears. We hear you whisper: “I will not allow you to be crushed.” We relax in your embrace.

We enter your sacred prayer space with the desire to be imitators of you. We may be persecuted by those who do not understand. But, in your presence we are surrounded by a wonderful community of believers. We feel encouraged to receive your word and teachings with joy.

Your guidance brings wisdom and peace. We are challenged on all sides to follow folly. We feel tempted to defend ourselves and others, to lash out in anger. We feel tempted to force our assumptions and agendas. But with you, in your sacred prayer space, you repair our hurtful attitudes. You protect us from these temptations and provide a path of peace.