Spirit of love,
you are the breath that fills us.
You are the pulse that animates us.
Your love flows within us,
your compassion connects us,
your presence surrounds us.
You dwell within each of us.
You fill our souls with courage and strength,
and empower us to new life.
Yet the world does not know you.
Everywhere, people dwell in darkness.
Blind and sightless, they cannot see the true light.
Daily they struggle for safety and security,
through power and prestige,
through wealth and possessions.
Endlessly they struggle for control and domination—
one gender over another,
one race over another,
one religion over another,
one country over another,
and violence, not love, is their redemption.
May we have the courage and strength
to love our neighbors,
to reconcile with enemies,
to break down barriers,
to unite in community,
to share our bread,
to speak the truth,
and to offer our lives.
May we be seeds, leaven, salt, and light,
transforming the world.
May we reflect Jesus’ vision for all of life,
and to joyfully welcome his world of justice and peace.
Amen.
© 2012 Kurt Struckmeyer
