Thursday of the First Week of Lent

Esther 4: 1-16, Psalm 138, Matthew 7: 7-12

When fear keeps me from recognizing myself in others,
You are there.
When insecurity locks me in from living as Jesus taught,
You are there.
When my imperfections become my stumbling blocks,
You are there.
When I cannot find the words and am unsure of what to say,
You are there.

When I act, You are there.
When I seek, You are there.
When I ask, You are there.
When I pray, You are there.

Help me to recognize myself in others.
Help me to live as Jesus taught.
Help me to act, seek, and ask.
Help me to believe in the power of prayer.

As I will be there to support, nurture, and nourish my child,
You will be there to support, nurture, and nourish me.
So that I may grow and face new challenges
Renewed by your grace.

And though my consequence may not be as great as Esther's, let me remember your grace and support as I face who I am intended to be, as I may have "come to the kingdom for such a time as this."

"Lord your love is eternal.
Complete the work that you
have begun."

Glynis Welte