Within the finite heart O Lord
dwells the infinite,
often hidden behind walls of fear
and mistrust.
As we stand,
or kneel,
or prostrate ourselves,
trusting in your benevolence,
our hearts expand,
slowly becoming true
to the image you have made us.
We are backed Lord into many corners,
trapped by our own cunning,
the fruit of our works coming to roost,
taunting us.
So we pray beloved,
let us feel you compassion,
allowing each of us
to become your arms to lift up and embrace,
to support and encourage,
allow our mouths to speak in healing ways,
our eyes to see others as a sacred trust to love and serve.
In our failures spur us onward,
not allowing despair a foothold into our hearts,
for in the growth of humility
all defenses fail,
allowing only love for others to grow,
gracing the finite heart
to love infinitely.
Br. Mark Dohle, OCSO
Holy Spirit Monastery
