Pause
As I turn my heart toward prayer, I take a moment to clasp my hands together and remember the sacredness of the body. Taking several deep breaths, I pause to dwell in the beautiful mystery of the incarnation, God taking on flesh to dwell among us.
Ask
God of all mercy, I open my heart to You. Hear my prayer for a successful surgery, for myself or for a loved one. I ask for the grace of peace and for wisdom for the medical team that will provide the treatment. May Your tender care be palpable in the work of the surgeons and nurses who attend to the work of repair and healing of the body.
Listen
God of all healing, I thank You for Your care of our bodies throughout Scripture and in our daily lives. I recall the gospel story of the woman who suffered for twelve years with incurable bleeding, the woman who was sure that she would be healed if she but touched the hem of Jesus’ robe. In this moment, I imagine myself reaching out as well, touching the hem of Your robe and being flooded with Your loving compassion.
Share
Jesus, I imagine You sitting beside me in the hospital room or clinic where the surgery will take place. I share with you my fears and concerns, for myself or for a loved one, and also all of my hopes for restoration and recovery. Knowing that You hear and understand even those prayers that are beyond language, I receive the comfort of Your gentle presence in this moment.
Reflect
Reflecting on this time in prayer, I place my hand over my heart to honor what has transpired there between us. I give thanks for the gift of assurance that you hear my prayer for a successful surgery, and that Your response of warm compassion sustains me this day and always.