Daily Devotions
Meditation, Prayers, and Assorted Stuff for April 7, 2020
Henri Nouwen, Bread for the Journey, “Friends as Reminders of Our Truth”
Sometimes our sorrow overwhelms us so much that we no longer can believe in joy. Life just seems a cup filled to the brim with war, violence, rejection, loneliness, and endless disappointments. At times like this we need our friends to remind us that crushed grapes can produce delicious wine. It might be hard for us to trust that any joy can come from our sorrow, but when we start taking steps in the direction of our friends’ advice, even when we are not yet able to feel the truth of what they say, the joy that seemed to be lost may be found again and our sorrow may become livable.
From the Church of England come these prayers for children that speak not just to our children, but to the child who is still in all of us.
A Prayer for When a Friend is Ill
Dear God, (name of friend) is ill. I’m sad because I miss them. They must be feeling miserable and lonely as well. Please be close to them. Please be with the people who are looking after them. Please help them to get better and to know that you love them. Amen.
A Prayer for the World
God of love and hope, you made the world and care for all creation, but the world feels strange right now. The news is full of stories about Coronavirus. Some people are worried that they might get sick. Others are anxious for their family and friends. Be with them and help them to find peace. We pray for the doctors and nurses and scientists, and all who are working to discover the right medicines to help those who are ill. Thank you that even in these anxious times, you are with us. Help us to put our trust in you and keep us safe. Amen.
A Prayer at Bedtime
God of hope and healing, I’m exhausted. There are so many people relying on me, and I’m not sure I can be stretched any thinner. I honestly didn’t know I could keep going on such little sleep, so I give you praise for keeping me going! Please, Lord, keep me safe. Keep me healthy so that I can continue caring for the sick.
A Prayer Remembering God Is with Us
Lord God, you are always with me. You are with me in the day and in the night. You are with me when I’m happy and when I’m sad. You are with me when I’m healthy and when I am ill. You are with me when I am peaceful and when I am worried. Today I am feeling (name how you are feeling) because (reasons you are feeling this way). Help me to remember that you love me and are with me in everything today. Amen.
How about a little ark humor from The Far Side?
Today’s links!
I’ve subscribed to The Quartz Daily Obsession for years. This edition on sneezes and sneezing is especially appropriate for the new COVID reality we’re all trying to cope with.
Take some advice from The New York Times and stop trying to be productive.
Stay safe and stay well!