Prayer for August 12, 2020

Prayer for August 12, 2020: Please pray with me.  Holy One, why do we make idols?  Why do we insist on making gods in our own image and likeness? Why do we trade in all that you give us for some false god that is not just less than you, but less than ourselves – in fact, that is nothing?  So we can feel more powerful?  So we can feel like we are the ones with all the knowledge and answers?  So we can feel in control?  How pathetic can we really be?  Rid us of these addictions!  Cleanse us of this unhealthy desire to be in control and to control you.  It hasn’t worked out well for humanity or the rest of creation.  Why do we insist on continuing to do this?  Not everyone will let go.  Help us to make peace with that.  Some will cause damage to themselves and others.  Help us to accept this reality.  Help us to know, deep down, that we are not the savior of others – that job is yours.  You call us to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God.  Not all will hear this message.  That’s not our concern though.  You call us to live differently.  Not all will accept this.  That’s not our concern.  You call us to love our enemies.  They may respond with hatred and violence anyway.  We can’t control that.  That is not our concern.  our concern is to respond to your invitation of love and forgiveness, mercy and grace.  And to share the light of God with others regardless of their response.  Help us to see that you give us everything we need to do this.  Amen.