Connection

During yesterday's posting I realized how infrequently I begin a prayer with Jesus. It has nothing to do with my faith tradition. It's just my preference. I grew up in another denomination, and I can remember thinking as a young girl that God was getting the short end of things. It seemed to me that God's name was rarely mentioned. Perhaps I'm still making up for all those imagined slights.

I participated in a spiritual formation group several years ago, and one idea that has remained with me is the idea that different people find their spiritual connection through distinct aspects of the Trinity. For instance, someone who did not have a good relationship with their father might find it hard to bond through God the Father, but could soar through the Holy Spirit.

My prayer for the congregation?

Compassionate God, we praise the vast ways that you avail your people and offer countless possibilities to draw us closer to you. Help us to be aware that different people and ages may need different approaches and teaching styles to release their minds and open their hearts to absorb the Good News of your love and recognize the Gift of Grace. Help us to think beyond our own inclinations, and help me to grow beyond my own preferences. We praise all that our congregation has to offer and the traditions that have supported us to this point and that will continue to carry us into the future. Let us be open to the needs and challenges that await, and connections that can be met when we trust in you. Amen.