As I walk through Colossians 3:1-4:6, I am struck by the characteristics of the kingdom. I need to cultivate these characteristics in my own life. Especially this: “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” (4:2) I think of this prayer in that pursuit: Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, soContinue reading “The culture of heaven cultivated in me”
Category Archives: Prayer
A prayer of wandering
My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so.Continue reading “A prayer of wandering”
Deep prayers that carry us
A few weeks ago I preached in my home church on the subject of prayer. It was a basic reminder that we, as Anglicans, have the Book of Common Prayer to help in times of prayer. It is a wonderful tool.
The training of the mind
I pray these prayers with the saints and my life is challenged. I find myself too often saying, “The heart is willing but the flesh is weak.” Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy thought can drag down; an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; an upright heart, which noContinue reading “The training of the mind”
The healing and the warning for the white conservative American church
Read Luke 13:10-17 HERE. Jesus is dealing with Israel and their final opportunities for repentance as he heads toward the cross. He is trying to wake them up to their poisonous nationalism and desire for open rebellion against Rome. He is calling one more time for them to wake up, turn around, and head towardContinue reading “The healing and the warning for the white conservative American church”
Ancient of Days
A song for our time of prayer lifting up Ukraine and their plight. Though the nations rage, kingdoms rise and fallThere is still one King reigning over allSo I will not fear for this truth remainsThat my God is, the Ancient of Days None above Him, none before HimAll of time in His handsFor HisContinue reading “Ancient of Days”
A prayer of hope
O God, you made us in your own image, and you have redeemed us through your Son Jesus Christ: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in the bonds of love; and work through ourContinue reading “A prayer of hope”
Feast of the Holy Innocents
This is what the Lord says:“A voice is heard in Ramah,mourning and great weeping,Rachel weeping for her childrenand refusing to be comforted,because they are no more.”This is what the Lord says:“Restrain your voice from weepingand your eyes from tears,for your work will be rewarded, ”declares the Lord.“They will return from the land of the enemy.SoContinue reading “Feast of the Holy Innocents”
Keeping perspective
It is good to camp in Isaiah 40 from time to time. In an age where it is easy to be upset because of whatever economic or political situation is going, we need the long view. We are not satisfied with the long view any longer, which is why I need Isaiah 40.
With Thanks
Most merciful Father, we humbly thank you for all your gifts so freely bestowed upon us: for life and health and safety, for strength to work and leisure to rest, for all that is beautiful in creation and in human life; but above all we thank you for our spiritual mercies in Christ Jesus ourContinue reading “With Thanks”
Apprentice 2 Jesus 