Dear God,

be kind to me – your world is so big

and my boat/car/bicycle/footstep/life is so small. (1)

Day by day I get lost among those skilled in doing evil,

and “I do declare, there were times when I was so alone

I took some comfort there.” (2)

And you found me, and day by day find me.

Now, Steadfast God,

a sheep who had strayed,

a coin that rolled beneath the couch,

I pray for those who are still lost

and alone in the hot wind and desolation;

both those who do evil

and those who have evil done to them.

Moses talked you out of your destructive intention;

but Jeremiah says you will not relent, not turn back;

Paul writes to Timothy that the saying

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”

is sure and worthy of full acceptance.

I simply pray that they might be found, brought home,

and that we all might rejoice together

in the light of your love and grace.

Let it be.

(1) Breton Fisherman’s Prayer

(2) Paul Simon, The Boxer