Prayer

God of all,

During this International Women’s Day, help us to recall the women in our lives that have made a difference to our self-understanding and the way we engage the world around us. Their dedication in words and deeds to support the cause of women are great examples of the importance of a feminine point of view.  Help us to be guided by their example so that we too can make a difference in the lives we touch, especially for the patients in our care, their families, and our broader communities.  We ask this, in the name of all women today. Amen.

Prayer

God of all time,

There is no time like the present. For the past is gone and you challenge us to let go of our cares about tomorrow. You call us to live in this moment, this very moment.  We often have a hard time doing that, but when we realize that what is truly most important is what is happening right here in front of us, in the eyes of the person before us, we can allow ourselves to be fully present to what you are doing in our midst, here and now. Help us to remain fully present, that we might better extend your compassion to others—today. Amen.

Prayer

Faithful God,

Often times in our lives we face challenges that are difficult to discern and understand.  We may even wonder why we must go through these circumstances.  However, when we put our full faith in you, many times we later learn the importance of those challenges and how beneficial they were in making our lives stronger.  Help us to always put our faith in you first and foremost, trusting you somehow to bring good out of all the trials we face. For this we pray, Amen.

Prayer

God of human dignity,

We are all innately born with a dignity that you have given and it cannot be taken away from us.  In the midst of turmoil, doubt, and confusion, help us to remember the value we have in life.  Grant us an acknowledgement of our worth so that we might know and believe, regardless of the situation, that we are enough just the way you have made us. Amen.

God of Experiences,

So much of our lives are based on our successes and how others see us.  But in your eyes, our success lies in living as children before you, enjoying more of the love that you share with us.  Help us to be mindful of those simple, daily experiences that bring to light your love for all.  Guide us to share those experiences with others, so that all may see your glory.  In love, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of love,

During these weeks of Lent, we are reminded of the journey that Jesus walked for us, carrying that heavy cross, so as to guide our way into heaven.  Help us to always be mindful of this deep love that was given for us and to reach out to others with this same type of love. We ask this in the name of love, Amen.

Prayer

God of all,

Your beauty shines forth in so many ways.  Your extravagant sunrises and sunsets inspire us to gasp in awe, for each one is more beautiful than the next.  The beauty of a dandelion, as wishes are blown in the wind, brings great joy to the one who holds it.  These little things in life truly do nourish our souls and offer us assurance that all things matter in your eyes. Help us to see with your eyes. Amen.