Pause
Slowing down, I notice the place I am in. I relax my face, my forehead, my shoulders, my chest, my hands. I wiggle my toes, clench and unclench any tight places that are holding tension. I am present to you, Good Shepherd, here in this place.
Ask
I come to you with a prayer for comfort. Please, God, gift me your reassurance and consolation. Smooth what is jagged and piercing. Calm what is full of fright. Lighten what is weighed down by grief. Cover me in your peace and gentleness.
Listen
Like a mother hen, you gather me close under your wings. Under your protection, I find rest and comfort. Your nearness is balm. Your love, the best medicine. Like a mother hen, you gather me safely to you. You are the rock I can return to again and again, the well-known path, the shade tree providing refuge. You are my Good Shepherd, comforting me and leading me in ways of peace.
Share
Sometimes my anxious thoughts and hurting heart define my days. When I rise, and when I lie down, distress surrounds and consumes me. But when I remember that I am under the protection of your loving wings, I can slowly relax into the refuge of your promise to be with me, even now, even here, always. In your blessed company, I can trust in the fullness of your mercy, in your providence.
Reflect
Anxiety and pain quiet down. Your still voice speaks peace into the depths of me. Your peace gives me peace, Oh God. Your kindness calms my spirit. Your Holy Spirit rekindles my heart like a flame in a fire nearly out. It brings me comfort to spend this time with you today, to know your nearness. I thank you, God, for your ever-present comfort in times of distress.
Print