"A Simple Prayer"

Last week, I was driving in unfamiliar territory when I inevitably cut off a fellow traveler, as two lanes merged into one. I wonder what he thought of me. Did he think I was a jerk, or some other descriptive word? It would have been nice to have the opportunity to explain to the other driver that I was from out of town, and very sorry. This reminded of a prayer I have kept for many years. Perhaps you will find it helpful as you travel through life.

"Heavenly Father, help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night, is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and was rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry, and spend a few precious moments with her children.

Help us remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester.

Remind us, Lord, that the scary-looking person, begging for money in the same spot every day may not own a second home at the beach or mountains, but is precious in your eyes.

Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together. 

Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. It is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge and quick to forgive. Help us to show patience, and express the love of Christ our Lord. Amen."