By John Bonney of Springfield, Oregon, USA
The lives of many are being sacrificed unnecessarily to the gods of war, greed, and avarice. The land is being desecrated by the thoughtless waste of vital resources. You must obey my commandments and be in the forefront of those who would mediate this needless destruction while there is yet day.
As a psalm, the day has begun—a day created, a day given. I cannot look to the hills because it is still the dark of predawn. I look to the moonless sky, the dark sky with few stars. In its velvet depths I marvel at what is, what may be, and what has already been. How is it I can marvel when I see nothing but the dark? Even in the dark I cannot escape the presence of creation—the presence of the Creator.
In the depths of what presents to my eyes as nothing, there is Presence in all. It is the depth and the soul of darkness, and even in darkness it brings light—the light of understanding, the light of Presence, the light of an awesome God.
How is it that eternal light never blinds me as does the sun’s light? How is it the Divine always tempers eternal light for my vision, and yet it always clarifies? How is it that eternal light never glares or causes me to turn away? It ever brings an invitation, a calling for me to look and see—see the offering for our discerning eye. It invites me to receive of eternity.
A new day dawns and the Cause is in it. I am led rightly. May I have the insight to follow as I am led. As the day progresses, I pray I may find myself a ready reflection of the Eternal within me. May I seek Divine expression in all Creation. May I see it in the world around me where the eternal image has been obscured, misshapen by human contrivance, and clouded with ignorance, suspicion, and greed.
Atone for me, O God of grace, that at times I may observe eternity. Where acts of human generosity, natural beauty, songs of the world, and praises are sent by the birds, the image is clear. May I behold beauty and elegance on the left and the right, above and below. Take my hand, Eternal One. The morning sky is dark; my vision is often narrow, and I lose my way. Light my path, Eternal Light, and lead me on.
Prayer Phrase
“…my God turns my darkness into light” (Psalm 18:28).
Spiritual Practice
Light
Close your eyes and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.