ART BY KATHY BOECHER

Dear, Heavenly Father,

You have safely brought me through another week. You’ve walked with me each second of every day, even though I tend to go my own way.  You love me with an unconditional love that I cannot begin to understand, but know I would be overcome with depression, feelings of loss, grief and every day living if you were not with me.  You lift me up when I am faint. You determine my comings and goings.  You give me courage when I think I can’t muster even an ounce of it.

Thank you for all the wonderful blessings you have given to me. Thank you for the lessons I’ve learned from my mistakes.   I feel your presence all the time – even when the aches and pains of my body make me more and more aware of my mortality.  You are there to support when I am faint.  You give me breath when I feel there is none.  You watch over me with love and the parental concern of a loving Father.  I am not worthy of such great love, yet through your Son, I know that you have freely given it.

I praise you for caring for each member of my family – for the sunshine and the rain – for the constant reassurance of your voice through the Bible – for the change of seasons – for friends who face life’s challenges and pain.  I pray for our country – for a revival towards you once more – a change of hardened hearts – a willingness to love instead of hate.

I beg you to be with us as we prepare for another week and no matter what comes our way, give us the strength to handle it, for you have a plan for all of us.

AMEN!