St. Nicolai Notes

EXCHANGES ON THE WAY: LENTEN PRAYERS
Day 10: Second Saturday
Mark 9:24-29

     Jesus, when we don't forget the presence of your Spirit with us, we are still inclined to forget your ability to bring healing and new life. We are likely to observe the wounds in our lives, our neighbors' lives, and in the lives of the communities and countries in which we dwell, and assume that they will always be there, that nothing can be done to bring about real change.
     As your followers, our trust in You is often embarrassingly weak. So . . . many of the crises we face, or create for ourselves, loom like large immovable objects before us. And when we face deep needs in the lives of others who come to us in their woundedness, we are slow to pray, and reluctant to fast from anything, in order that your word or touch might work through us for their healing.
     Christ Jesus, we believe in your ability to bring healing and renewal, in our lives, and in the larger world in which we participate. But overcome our unbelief! Transform us, not into perfect people, but into people who recognize their own needs and the needs of others with clarity, call upon You with boldness and deep trust, and celebrate your presence and healing with abundant joy. Amen.