Gracious Father,

Today I approach your throne with thanksgiving for
a full night's sleep; this morning's sunshine, the songbirds, the
emails wishing me a wonderful day and renewed health, and
for the sweet memory of Johnny's words "I love you, Barb.
Always will."

 I thank thee for the trials of my life, for painful as they were,
 and are, they reveal to me my strengths, as well as my 
weaknesses; they help me recognize in what areas I need to grow.

Today, I again place my hurts, worries, fears and concerns 
into your hands. I do this  because they  are
to heavy for me- and to painful; and because I know that You are
the God of impossible things; you (many times), created masterpieces
out of the ruins of my life.

You are my Rock, my strength, 
the Joy of my heart.
You are my Peace.

Please, Lord, bless this day:
Those facing trials to great for their power:
Those behind prison walls, without friends, family or hope:
Those struggling with addictions:
Those whose children are in trouble:
Those who are struggling to hold tight to their faith:
Those who have lost everything because of natural disasters:
Those suffering because of an unwillingness to forgive:
Those whose marriages are in trouble:
Those who, this very minute, are in the valley of decision,
not sure whether they wish to live-or die:
Those who are lost, afraid, lonely, hungry, sad and friendless.

Let me, I pray, never remain blind, or willingly close my eyes
to the needs and pleas of my sisters and brothers in the world.
Grant me the ability to Love as You love me, to focus on the 
good in others- to the best of my ability, rightly represent Christ.
It is in His name I pray. Amen.

Gracious Father,


Teach me to live just for today, to stay focused on what truly matters: family,
the hurts and needs of others, the need for understanding and compassion. Help me to keep both heart and mind open, so that I won't miss those things you want me to hear- to know.


Teach me to walk in your steps, not lagging behind- so I could get lost, nor
running ahead, for then I would meet with things I'm not prepared for. Help me remember that walking with You means doing as You did, desiring what You desired.

Teach me to always speak the truth, to never fear persecution, criticism, or any negative thing; to remember always that nothing comes into my life, or departs from it without first having your stamp of approval.


Help me remember the deepness of my sorrows, how acute their pain, so that I will be able to minister to others more gently, more kindly, and with more compassion and patience.


Teach me how to let go, Gracious Father, of all those things that prevent me
from becoming the woman you desire me to be. Help me remember all that you forgave me for, so that when others need my forgiveness I am quick to give it.

Thank you for helping me see my flaws of character, for helping me understand how each of them messed up (and is still messing up my life).

Thank you for encouraging me each day, for comforting me, wiping my tears when I cry, and holding me tight against your heart when I am overwhelmed with the trials in my life.


Sometimes, especially since Johnny's death, I feel quite lost and misplaced, 
but know that in truth I am not, for YOU are wherever I am.

Bless my family and friends this day, Lord. You know their situations, their heart pain. Please comfort them as you do me. May each of them know today, the honor of your presence, the warmth of your love, and the tightness of
Your embrace.