By Danny Belrose of Blue Springs, Missouri USA

Fulfill the purposes of the Temple by making its ministries manifest in your hearts. It was built from your sacrifices and searching over many generations. Let it stand as a towering symbol of a people who knew injustice and strife on the frontier and who now seek the peace of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

Whirling, swirling skyward
          —here, in this sacred space we sense your Spirit, God,
          —not because the other places where we walk, talk,
          and live out our daily lives are less sacred.

Every sanctuary, large or small, humble or ornate
         —every living room, field, forest, mountain stream
          dedicated to your praise and peace
          awakens us to your presence.

We come expectant.

We come in search of you, of ourselves,
          of those we know and do not know
          who need to be blessed and to be your blessing.

How many feet have journeyed
          this Worshiper’s Path, God?

How many faces, races, friends, families, stranger?

Heads bowed in silence.

Hearts filled with hope and anticipation.

Upward. Inward. Slowly, reflectively,
          winding their way into spiraling space.

Bringing you here, meeting you here
          —taking you with them, God.

Opening themselves, once again,
          to your ever-abiding presence at all corners of life.

And somehow awakening to the wonder that they too
          are your temple
          —each a living, loving sanctuary of peace,
          reconciliation, and healing of the Spirit.

May this shining symbol escape its footings and foundation.

May it wander far and wide in crepe soles,
          sandals, high heels, bare feet, and sneakers
          —its walls wrapped in suits, saris,
          Shirts, and sundresses.

Let its face be a rainbow of cultures,
          young and old, weak and strong
          —each a living sanctuary of Christ’s peace.

And may those who never enter its doors, become its doors,
          welcoming all they meet with the
          gift of grace and holy acceptance.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“Do not be afraid, for I am your God…” (Isaiah 41:10).

Voices of God

What is the voice of God saying to us? Do we hear the whispers of God’s longing for shalom; God’s dream of beauty and wholeness for all creation? Do we hear the “voice” of God calling to us in faces and eyes, in the sounds of suffering and joy, in scripture and sacred word, in tears and laughter, in silence and noise? Spend a few moments reflecting on when and how God’s voice speaks to you. When did you first feel called to join God in the pursuit of peace and justice? How does the call of shalom continue to come to you through the many “voices” of God?

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.