A Prayer for Friday (Repost)

Father, sometimes the days begin with a poetic flourish.Some days begin with running through sewage.

In either case, this is the beginning and not the end.

Father I start today by thinking on you - being mystified by you and how my little life fits your cavernous palms.

I am mystified how you choose me, though your holiness and goodness scream against it.

In either case, this is the beginning and not the end. 

Lord, I'm strengthened and inspired by a new day where you are doing amazing things amidst my striving.

I am challenged by my faithlessness, my hopeful rebellion, and my staring endlessly away from you for direction.

In either case, this is the beginning and not the end. 

Lord, let me live as if you are constantly starting new things in me as the old pass away.

And when this place gets too heavy, and I start to think of assaulting my co-workers and family members, and when I lose the value of my work, remind me as the Gentle Shepherd you are...

This is not the end. You are the beginning.