This week we pray for ourselves and one another that the “graces of Christian character may more and more take shape within” us, and transform our community. This “evening” prayer is adapted from John Baillie, though you can pray it morning or night.
O Father, all treasures of wisdom and truth and holiness are stored up in your boundless being. Grant that through our constant fellowship wit you, those graces of Christian character may more and more take shape within us, for those around us:
The grace of a thankful and uncomplaining heart;
The grace to await your timing patiently and to answer your Spirit’s call promptly;
The grace to endure any hardship in the fight against evil;
The grace of boldness to stand up for what is right;
The grace of being adequately prepared for any temptation;
The grace of physical discipline;
The grace of truthfulness;
The grace to treat others as we would like them to treat us—to “love my neighbors as myself”;
The grace of sensitivity, that we refrain from hasty judgment;
The grace of silence, that we may refrain from thoughtless speech;
The grace of forgiveness toward all who have wronged us;
The grace of tenderness toward all who are weaker than ourselves;
The grace of faithfulness in continuing to desire and believe that you will answer these prayers.
And now, O Father, give us a quiet mind as we rest. Dwell in our thoughts until sleep or silence overtakes us. Do not let us be worried by the small anxieties of this life. Do not let any troubled dreams disturb us, so that we might wake (from sleep or prayer) refreshed and ready for all that this day and the next brings.
And Thou, O Lord, by whom are seen
Thy creatures as they be,
Forgive us if too close we lean
Our human hearts on Thee.
Amen.