Finally, brothers and sisters,
Keep me coming back to your people, God. Help me to see my neighbors as your beloved children.
Whatever is true,
Keep your word, God, close. Keep me coming back to you for truth and wisdom.
Whatever is noble,
Keep my eyes focused on Jesus’ example to love and serve others.
Whatever is right,
Keep me centered on loving God and loving neighbors.
Whatever is pure,
Keep the picture of the baby Jesus born in a manger close to my heart, the gift of God coming down to earth to know God’s people.
Whatever is lovely,
Turn my senses to the gifts in front of me. Help me to see the beauty of a sunset, the warmth of a loved one’s hand, a hand-written note, and a meal shared with family as signs of your presence.
Whatever is admirable –
Help me to feed and clothe and care for my neighbors. Teach me to know when to talk and when to listen.
If anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.
God, I desire to know you more. I desire to hear your voice. I desire to sit in your presence. Meet me in the stillness. Come to me in the chaos. Bring me to the fullness of life found in your grace. Amen.
-Philippians 4:8 (NIV)