It's Lent

Save us from weak resignation

to the evils we deplore;

let the gift of your salvation

be our glory evermore.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

serving you whom we adore,

serving you whom we adore.

There is one part of the rhythm, refrain of this hymn that deserves special attention:

Grant us wisdom,grant us courage.

Those six words are a profound and powerful prayer.  Grant us a wisdom, deeper than what humans currently have.  Grant us courage to realize/recognize we don't know everything. Grant me wisdom to not be such a bonehead today, and the courage to live the ethic of Jesus' love.  Grant me wisdom to see clearly, speak plainly, and then listen patiently.  Grant this, O God, because I need a strength that is bigger and bolder than my own.

Where do you need wisdom right now?

Is there a decision you are facing?

Is there a problem that sits uneasy in your mind waking you up at 3 a.m. to chat?

Is there a tension on your shoulders or stress in the pit of your stomach?

Where is that edge of your knowing?

Where do you need courage right now?

To speak the truth in love.

To be willing to be vulnerable.

To love the love you hide and care recklessly knowing that sometimes people will refuse.

To be the you God crafted in God's image.

Wisdom and her cousin, courage.  Courage that knows just pounding a bully pulpit is never enough.  Wisdom that keeps yearning toward the parts that are mysterious.  Courage to keep on keeping on.

How do those two words sing and speak to your heart on this Lenten day?  How do these two words become a doorway to more than a trace of God's grace?  How might they become a manta for you as we continue the journey ahead?

May grace and peace be with you now more than ever.  Blessings ~~