A Reflection on Isaiah 58:9-14
I lose sight, I doubt, but I turn and turn again to your words, oh Lord.
I ask you to feed me with your body, your blood, and your insights.
Help me, O Lord, to discern clearly, to seek wise counsel, to accept it graciously.
I cannot solve the problems of the world. Can I be an instrument in bringing a bit of your truth and your peace to others?
I struggle against words that come from someone’s pride. Perhaps, because that is my weakness.
I see my own pride as a danger. I don’t always know better than others, but I am not humble as humble as you would have me be.
I ask, again and again, create in me a clean heart, O Lord.
Let me leave myself behind in all my doings.
I see my pride in my deafness.
I see my pride in explaining myself rather than validating others.
I see my pride in seeking articles that validate my thinking.
I feel shame when I examine my conscience, especially, when someone else gently reveals my sin to me.
Teach me to be gentle.
I can’t go it alone, God. I need you and the voices of your representatives and the body of your assembly. Help me keep you near me, Lord.
Help me be humble enough to hear, to listen, to repent, and to learn.
Help me to ask my questions with an open heart.
Help me to present my thoughts appropriately, to touch hearts only according to your will.
Help me to grow in faith.
And I know that when I listen to you, the miracles unfold that I trust but cannot prove.
They grow in the heart of me.
And I cherish them as the greatest gift from the finest lover,
Because they are.
I am grateful for the love,
I am grateful for the lessons.
Naked Soul Thoughts 