Hello, friends. I’ve spent so many hours, and so much energy, writing today’s prayer that now I can’t think of anything to say by way of an introduction! It’s meant to encompass both the darkness we experience during contemplative prayer, and the terrible periods of deep emotional and spiritual darkness we can suffer when we feel utterly bereft and alone during our journey though life. See what you think…
Pilgrimage
* Clouds and thick darkness surround him (Psalm 97:2; NIV).
* Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always (1 Chronicles 16:11; NIV).
* Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near (Isaiah 55:6; NIV).
* Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff – they comfort me (Psalm 23:4; NRSV).
* When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12; NIV).
* If you seek him, he will be found by you (1 Chronicles 28:9; NIV).
Clouds and thick darkness
Surround you, Lord,
So we, your children,
Must pass through them
As we seek your face,
Calling out to you,
Day and night.
Yet we never make
This pilgrimage alone –
For your dear Son
Lights up the narrow path,
And comforts us along the way,
Until we find our home with you,
At last.
Thank you so much, and thank you also for unwittingly introducing me to the books of hours you use. I’ve written my own, but these look fantastic so I will be sending for the first one, to try out. All best wishes from Ruth XXX