by the Rev. Charlie Dupree
With the coming of Memorial Day comes a good bit of travel accompanied by, God willing, times of re-creation. What would it look like for you to pair your summer plans and travels with prayer?
As you take some time away to be with family, friends, or by yourself . . .
As you pack your bags, check the engine, load up the kids . . .
As you take in new scenery, have an extra cup of coffee or tea . . .
As you leave home, return home . . .
In these moment, try to take a moment to pause, join hands, and offer thanks for the blessings of these experiences.
Give it a try – here are a few prayers to pack into your summer prayer book:
53. For Travelers
O God, our heavenly Father, whose glory fills the whole
creation, and whose presence we find wherever we go: Preserve
those who travel [in particular _______________]; surround
them with your loving care; protect them from every danger;
and bring them in safety to their journey’s end; through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
In the Morning
Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have
brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your
mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome
by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of
your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
63. In the Evening
O Lord, support us all the day long, until the shadows
lengthen, and the evening comes, and the busy world is
hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done.
Then in thy mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest,
and peace at the last. Amen.
32. For the Good Use of Leisure
O God, in the course of this busy life, give us times of
refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our
leisure to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, that our
spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
40. For Knowledge of God’s Creation
Almighty and everlasting God, you made the universe with
all its marvelous order, its atoms, worlds, and galaxies, and
the infinite complexity of living creatures: Grant that, as we
probe the mysteries of your creation, we may come to know
you more truly, and more surely fulfill our role in your
eternal purpose; in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
See you in church,
Charlie+ (he/him)