I was privileged to spend time with a man named John Breck. He had been educated in France, Germany, then Brown and Yale in America. Just a brilliant guy. He taught me about the Orthodox Church. The depth of his theological knowledge was profound.
One morning John prayed one of the most beautiful prayers I’ve ever heard. He attributed it to monks in the Optina Monastery in Russia and said it was probably 19th Century. I asked him if he would share the prayer with me. Of course he did; in retrospect, what a silly question – why would anyone refuse to share a prayer?
So today I share this prayer with you. I’ve prayed it many times the last 20 years and find it always a powerful way to start the day. Please, cut this prayer out and put it in your Bible, by your devotional space, or on the fridge…
O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace.
Help me in all things to rely upon your holy will.
In every hour of the day reveal your will to me.
Bless my dealing with all who surround me.
Teach me to treat all that come to me throughout the day
with peace of soul and firm conviction
that your will governs all.
In all my deeds and words guide my thoughts and feelings.
In unforeseen events let me not forget that all are sent by you.
Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without
embittering or embarrassing others.
Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring.
Direct my will.
Teach me to pray.
Pray yourself in me.
Amen.