“In prayer we meet Christ, and in him all human suffering.  In service we meet people, and in them the suffering Christ.” 

- Henri Nouwen

5.22.2010

A FRANCISCAN BENEDICTION

May God bless us with discomfort

At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts.

May God bless us with anger

At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may work for justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless us with tears

To shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that we may reach out our hands to comfort them and turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless us with enough foolishness

To believe that we can make a difference in this world, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done.

2 comments:

  1. Thanks. I really like this.

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  2. In short, may God bless us with Christ-likeness. But it's good to see it spelled out this way in terms we can more easily relate to. A benediction like this turned to prayer brings us once again to the foot of the cross, casting ourselves upon His mercy and grace.

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