7th Sunday After Pentecost, July 27, 2014

Collect, Proper 12

O god, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: Increase and multiply upon us your mercy; that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we lose not the things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  Amen.
Reflections: This prayer means a lot to me because, while “things temporal” are not opposed “things eternal.” My habit, perhaps at some level my preference, is to get lost in the narrative. So often I am consumed by worries, plans, and petty concerns. Truly, it takes practice, attention, willingness, and—most of all—grace to live in both worlds at the same time.