This past Sunday, my message focused on the eternal presence of God in our lives. More than that I touched on how valued each of us are in the eyes of God, even – perhaps especially – when we don’t see that same value when we look in the mirror.

In turning to God in prayer and action, we turn to a being whose gaze is ever on us, arms outstretched to welcome us into that unconditional love.

Let’s listen to the words of wisdom in today’s psalm and pray on the surety of the author.

Psalm 86:1-7:

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
Preserve my life, for I am devoted to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God;
be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all day long.
Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call on you.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my cry of supplication.
In the day of my trouble I call on you, for you will answer me.

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me. Give ear, O Lord, to hear my prayer.

Compassionate God, we are constantly reminded of your care and love for us, and yet many of us walk dark roads of self-doubt, depression, and brokenness. Shine your light on us and give us the strength to walk with those burdens; give us courage to face the darkness that we feel within us knowing that it can never overwhelm your divine spark that burns in us yet; give us the wisdom to know that we are cherished, bearers of the reflection of your image.

Hear our prayers for those who feel lost in their lives. Night comes upon all of us, and while we often look to the dawn, we can also get used to the darkness, finding comfort in its veil even as it drains us of life. Encourage your divine spark within us to burst once more to life, to burn away the shroud that weighs us down. Help us to face your light, acknowledging our brokenness, laying bare all that we try to hide from the world, but cannot hide from your eyes. And in that moment of naked brokenness, embrace us.

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me. Give ear, O Lord, to hear my prayer. AMEN