The wonder of prayer Epiphany: a diligent search ‘‘Those who are wise shall shine as brightly as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3 NRSV)
God of our knowing and unknowing: • As we travel where we’ve never been before, help us see the signs of your presence. • As we imagine church for the future, help us open our minds to exploration and adventure. • We give thanks for those whose learning helps us discover ancient truths and new ideas. • We pray for those working in education; gift them with the art of teaching complex subjects in accessible ways. • We pray for those who feel they have no gifts to bring; open their eyes to the treasure in their souls.
Jesus Christ, source of all wisdom, Grow in us wondering hearts, curious to seek you out. Grow in us wondering minds, intrigued and inquisitive, receptive yet discerning. Grow in us wondering souls, alive to the joy of discovery. And, when darkness dulls our wonder, be the light that leads us on. Amen. The wise men wondered, but not in a vague, off-hand way; they wondered about this new-born king, and that led them to employ all their knowledge and insight to seek him out. How might we ‘search diligently’ for Jesus this year? Which spiritual practices and rhythms of life might you adopt, to help you seek him out?
To sign up for regular updates from the Changing Lives Prayer Network, visit canterburydiocese.org/prayer or email lbywater@diocant.org Image: ‘Star of Wonder’ by Primrose Northrop