Praying

Jesus said, “When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
“Pray then in this way:
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And do not bring us to the time of trial,
but rescue us from the evil one.
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:7-15 

Praying

Dear wondrous Creator
you know our needs
you heart beats with ours
you are never far away.

Draw near to your children
as we open our heart to you
let us never be afraid to pray
to talk with our Creator.

In this time of dire sickness
we come to you fearfully
we shiver with our worries
we feel so small and alone.

Help us to start and end
everything with prayer
sharing our hearts with you
knowing your love draws near.

Help us to take each breath
as gift and sign of your presence
abiding in the dark and light
speaking love to all the broken places. Amen