From my forthcoming book Still, Still with Thee, a prayer through which we welcome Christ afresh into our hearts.
Christ, born of Mary,
when all seems hopeless, assure me that nothing is impossible with you.
Christ, the word made flesh,
when your promises seem in vain
remind me that in the fullness of time all will be realised.
Christ, laid in a manger,
teach me to make room for you in my heart,
Christ, whose birth was acclaimed by angels,
help me each day to welcome and worship you.
Christ, whom Herod sought to destroy,
remind me that evil will be denied the final word.
Christ, baptised in the Jordan,
teach me the path of obedience.
Christ, who taught the multitudes,
give me ears to hear and a heart to listen.
Christ, who healed the sick,
grant me wholeness of body, mind and spirit.
Christ, who welcomed outcasts and ‘sinners’,
open my heart to all and to my own imperfections.
Christ, betrayed, denied and abandoned,
awaken me to the weakness of my commitment.
Christ, hanging in agony on the cross,
support and strengthen all who suffer.
Christ, laid in the tomb,
reach out to the bereaved.
Christ of the empty tomb,
speak afresh of your light shining in darkness.
Christ risen and ascended,
give me a sense of your greatness, power and purpose,
and help me in this season and always to celebrate your great love.
Amen.