Sovereign God, it is You who searches our hearts, examines our minds, and tests our spirits. And in so doing, You know us intimately and completely. You know when we sit down and when we rise. You perceive our thoughts even before we have voiced them. Before a word is on our tongue, You, O Lord, know it completely.
Such knowledge is both overwhelming and comforting. May we come to understand and accept that even knowing us as well as You do, You love us anyway. When we are grieved by various trials, may we trust that You will perceive the genuineness of our faith.
Even gold perishes when it is tested by fire. Remind us again, and all those who are overwhelmed by disaster and destruction, warfare, and ill will, that in Your esteem, we, as Your children, are much more precious than the most valuable treasure on Earth.
In all things, may we find it within our hearts, minds, and spirits, even in the face of the harshest of tests, to bring praise and honor to You and proclaim our belief that Your powerful hand directs our lives.
In Your enduring name we pray. Amen.
I sometimes have a bright dream of reunion engulfing us unawares, like a great wave from behind our backs, perhaps at the very moment when our official representatives are still pronouncing it impossible. Discussions usually separate us; actions sometimes unite us.
—C.S. Lewis
The Interfaith Staff Prayer Room is open for congressional staff to use for personal prayer and meditation. For questions – email StaffPrayerRoom@mail.house.gov
Members and staff are invited to join Chaplain Kibben for a brief time of wreath lighting, prayer and scripture reflection as we prepare for the Christmas holiday. Please email ChaplainOffice@mail.house.gov for more information.