Dear Friends: The following article is from the Ogdensburg Ministerial Association. We hope you find it uplifting and informative. Today’s article is titled, “A Blessing Prayer.”

By REV. LYNN A. SULLIVAN

First Baptist Church, Ogdensburg

Have there ever been times in your life when everything seems the “same old” even when you have turned the corner for a new beginning? Have you ever been called upon to say or write something encouraging or inspiring and have drawn a blank? Have you ever lost sight of the fact that you are a blessing to others? I certainly have, more times than I care to remember! For me, this signals a dryness of spiritual vitality, a sign that I need to put aside my “busy-ness” and seek inspiration from some other sources. I find myself in need of a blessing that will re-ignite the flames of inspiration and joy in meeting the “same old” in each new day, and to remind me that I am blessed to be a blessing!

A source that has inspired me and set me on a new and purposeful path time and time again is “A Blessing Prayer” by Macrina Wiederkehr. Out of my own need, I share it with you:

What is a blessing but a rain of grace falling generously into the lives of those in need; and who among us is without need?

May the Spirit touch your spirit in this midmorning pause.

May this day be a pathway strewn with blessings.

May your work this day be your love made visible.

May you breathe upon the wounds of those with whom you work.

May you open yourself to God’s breathing.

May you honor the flame of love that burns inside you.

May your voice this day be a voice of encouragement.

May your life be an answer to someone’s prayer.

May you own a grateful heart.

May you have enough joy to give you hope, enough pain to make you wise.

May there be no room in your heart for hatred.

May you be free from violent thoughts.

When you look into the window of your soul may you see the face of God.

May the lamp of your life shine upon all you meet this day.

Excerpted from Seven Sacred Pauses: Living Mindfully through the Hours of the Day by Macrina Wiederkehr. Copyright 2008, Sorin Books, by Ave Maria Press, P.O. Box 428, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Used with permission of the publisher.

May you be newly inspired and blessed to be a blessing, too!

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