I recently had a friend say to me, "God is so mysterious, I wish He would shout his answers to us." I think God does shout His answers and they are simple, but so difficult. I find that I will hear something very clearly, but I don't want to accept it. My 16th year down to Kentucky and I arrived on a hot afternoon and noticed, with a particular attention to it, the words inscribed in stone over the monastic gate, "GOD ALONE."

Two words, but that is God's message to me. I need people and I have been frightened by the very thought of losing loved ones, but if we hang on to God Alone, He will take us through "the valley of the shadow of death." 

Death and loss, very much a part of the months of this summer, but God is consoling and comforting us through the losses and I see new beginnings too.

GOD ALONE PRAYER
Lord, For today, in each moment of this day
May I see Your beauty and surrender my will to You alone
Be my vision, my breath, the beating of my heart.

If today I meet poverty, deprivation, or darkness of sin,
May I reflect the richness of Your goodness to the world, and the light of faith.

If today I come across hatred, ugliness or selfishness,
May I introduce Your love, beauty and compassion.

If today I am imprisoned by lies, addiction, or violence,
May I seek freedom in Your truth, serenity, and peace.

If today I encounter rejection, betrayal, or abandonment,
May I embrace Your acceptance, steadfast love, and presence.

If today I know doubt, despair, or death,
May I find hope in my faith and eternal life.

Today, may I be still.
May I have the vision to see You in everyone and everything,
And to reflect Your Beauty, truth, and goodness,
In merciful and humble love.
Amen.

debra, August 2011