“For when we cannot choose words
in order to pray properly, the Spirit . . . 
expresses our plea in a way that could
never be put into words.” (Romans 8: 26-27)

Heavenly Father, thank you for directing us
to be still and know the quiet reverence
of gifted epiphanies offered within our journey,

your peace that passes all understanding
in a world troubled and afraid, the world
you conquer with truth and love, grace

and mercy offered freely to all, guiding us
to act justly, to love tenderly, and
to walk humbly with our God.

Father, I thank you especially for followers
in your ministry, all of whom have suffered grief;
for some, losses that would be unbearable

without your comfort, a strength that permits
each one to minister to others in need
of Christ’s love and hope, the transcendent awe

I have experienced from my City Light neighbors–
my friends from the streets, and friends who serve
those in need, God’s Little Ones who, when I ask

how they are feeling, smile and say, “Blessed,”
and sometimes place a hand on my arm,
call me by name. And the epiphany of little Lincoln,

who at the Christmas eve service helping his dad
with the Lord’s Supper, told me, “Dr. Bob,
tomorrow is Christmas, Jesus’s birthday.”

And I am blessed. Blessed by the hope
shared for today and the coming year.

*Selections Cited From The Jerusalem Bible,
Doubleday and Company, 1966

Romans 8: 26-27
Psalm 46: 10
John 16: 33
2 John, verse 3
John 14: 27
Micah 6: 8
Matthew 18: 1-5