Evening Prayer December 22, 2013

Bless us with the rest we need, Beloved, in this night and whenever we are weary. Knowing weariness, may we be emboldened to welcome others and make room for their rest, offering kindness and comfort and respite from what can be an often harsh and painful world. Bless us with the dreams we need, Beloved, in this night and whenever we are fearful. Knowing fear and knowing the dream of peace, may we be gladdened to labor for merciful justice and peace, and dream dreams worthy of living, dreams that bless this world. Bless us with the love we need, Beloved, in this night and whenever we are besieged with doubts that we can make a positive difference or have any love to give or are worthy of love. Knowing the pain of such doubts may we offer one another the blessings we ourselves have needed, love that abides, that shines, that warms, that welcomes, that holds us fast through the storms and through the celebrations, through the daily mud and the daily miracles. Bless us tonight, Beloved, with what we need and turn us back toward blessing one another and this world. Amen.