Thursday, January 7, 2016

Martin Luther leads us in prayer

Behold, Lord, an empty vessel that needs to be filled.  My Lord, fill it.  I am weak in faith; strengthen me.  I am cold in love; warm me and make me fervent, that my love may go out to my neighbors.  I do not have a strong and firm faith; at times I doubt and am unable to trust You altogether.  O Lord, help me.  Strengthen my faith and trust in You.  In You I have sealed the treasure of all I have.  I am poor; You are rich and came to be merciful to the poor.  I am a sinner; You are upright.  With me, there is an abundance of sin; in You is the fullness of righteousness.  Therefore I will remain with You, of whom I can receive but to whom I may not give.  Amen.

Martin Luther, from "For All the Saints," page 190