A Prayer

Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Just as unconsecrated oil can illuminate a room when lit, so the oil of gladness can illuminate your creation and make your presence known in our deepest places.

Christ, your anointed one, illuminates your creation and enlivens us.

Yet, even with you so close, I have turned my gaze away from your goodness and beauty. 

I have not turned it towards light and fulfillment, but to the nothingness from which I came. 

But you have given us your commandments so that we might be drawn back to you and know your will and your character. You have given us your Son, that we might be reconciled to you.

Open the eyes of my heart, O Lord, that I might see you. 

Open my lips that I might praise you.

Open my heart that I might worship you and seek justice for those who suffer.

"Open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that we will not have room enough for it."

Amen