A QUOTE, A TEXT AND A PRAYER…OR TWO. From September 8 − 12 the events of 9/11, 2001 shape these daily readings
A QUOTE
Time is too short for those who wait. Too swift for those who fear. Too long for those who grieve. Too short for those who rejoice. But for those who love, time is eternity. Henry Van Dyke (1852–1933) American Author and Clergyman
A TEXT
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. Mark 12:30-31
AND A PRAYER…OR TWO
Father of all, free us from prejudice born of hate and fear and kept alive by ignorance and pride. Open our hearts and minds to new friendships and new contributions of the spirits from peoples, cultures and religions not our own. Enrich us by the great thoughts and experiences of all peoples and countries. With all your children on earth make us sharers of your abundant life and workers together in your kingdom of love and peace. Amen. Cleveland Shrigley (adapted)
Almighty and ever gracious God, you have made each of us to reveal the image and likeness of your glory: teach us to reverence and cherish this gift of life: by offering ourselves as temples of your Holy Spirit by protecting and promoting all that is gracious and good and by opposing all that degrades or destroys our humanity that justice and peace may prevail and the whole world be transfigured by the light of your love, now and always. Amen
For those who volunteered, giving themselves, their time and their possessions to serve whenever they were needed: God hear our prayers of remembrance and grateful thanks for their lives poured out for the sake of those in peril. We give you thanks, O Lord.