In Luke 22:31-32 we find Jesus talking to Simon Peter, “Simon, Satan has asked to have you, to sift you like wheat, but I have pleaded in prayer for you that your faith should not completely fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen and build up the faith of your brothers.”
There is an intent intimacy in the way that Jesus speaks to Simon Peter that reflects a deep love for this rough diamond of a disciple. Perhaps for a moment place yourself into this close encounter.
Imagine Jesus leaning forward, speaking your name and saying: ‘I have prayed for you.’ Feel the support of that prayer. Jesus might add, ‘When you pray for people you care about, I am praying beside you.’ We pray together for the whole world to have the strength to come through hard times knowing you are with us. Jesus I place all my trust in you.
The theologian Chardin speaks of the two hands of God: with one hand God holds you carefully, with the other he shapes your life and the whole universe. Notice how his hand works to restore the damage done to us, like a painter carefully restoring a damaged masterpiece – remember you are that work of art!
Pray this prayer slowly and intentionally
Lord work on my heart
until it becomes like your Sacred Heart.
Give me hope.
Then I can love you and all my sisters and brothers
with the respect, compassion, and forgiveness
that you have for everyone.
(Take time to voice your concerns for yourself and others)
If what I ask is not for my own good
and the good of others,
grant me what will most help
to build up your kingdom of justice, love and peace.
I make this prayer with confidence in your love.
Amen
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