From my book A Calendar of Classic Prayer, an expression of heartfelt gratitude from Bishop Richard of Chichester dating back roughly eight hundred years. His words are as apposite now as they were then.
Background
Our words today come from Richard of Chichester (1197–1253). After a time as Chancellor of Oxford University and then of the Diocese of Canterbury, he went on to become Bishop of Chichester in 1244, earning widespread acclaim for his devout life and faithful ministry. He’s remembered above all for the following prayer – a joyful outpouring of thanksgiving coupled with a plea for growth in grace. Its closing sentence was popularised in the Christian musical production Godspell.
Prayer
Thanks be to you, my Lord Jesus Christ,
for all the benefits you have won for me;
for all the pains and insults you have borne for me,
O most merciful redeemer, friend and brother.
May I know you more clearly,
love you more dearly
and follow you more nearly,
day by day.
Amen.