A Benediction at the End of a Prayer Time
by Edward Hays in
Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim
O God of kindness and compassion,
I have come to the conclusion
Of this time of prayer and worship,
mindful of my position as your servant.
I throw wide open the windows of my heart
so that the peace of your presence
may pour out in all four directions,
showering its blessing upon all the earth.
May this benediction heal the wounds of war,
bind up the bitterness of painful divisions
and mend broken hearts and failed friendships.
As the blessing of your presence encircles the earth,
may it awaken in all people
a great desire to serve one another
in humbleness and loving ways.
May it call proud hearts to gentleness
and awaken the child in those
who seek to hold power over others.
Inflame those hearts that have grown cold;
reawaken within the weary soul
your spirits of youthfulness and joy.
Stir up your breath of freshness and enthusiasm
that slumbers in tired hearts.
May this blessing flow forth from my heart,
in your holy and infinite Name,
in the redeeming name of your Son
and in the living presence of the Holy Spirit.
Amen+
