Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
When we see dark grey clouds forming in the sky,
we fear a mighty storm.
In the same way when we see the darkness of our sin,
we fear the storm of your wrath.
But just as in truth rain brings new life to the earth,
so you rain down mercy on our sinful souls,
bringing forgiveness and peace.
Be to us always like a mighty storm,
raining down upon us the abundant waters of your mercy.
Gilbert of Hoyland, died c.1170, Cistercian abbot in Lincolnshire, England
______________________________
As for you, O Lord, you will not restrain
your mercy from me;
your steadfast love and your faithfulness will
ever preserve me!
For evils have encompassed me
beyond number;
my iniquities have overtaken me,
and I cannot see;
they are more than the hairs of my head;
my heart fails me.
Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me!
O Lord, make haste to help me!
prayer & verse 