according to what I know so well!
I confess it, my heart goes after shadows.
I love everything better than communion with You.
I am ever eager to get away from You.
Often I find it difficult even to say my prayers.
There is hardly any amusement I would not
rather take up than set myself to think upon You.
Give me grace, O my Father,
to be utterly ashamed of my own reluctance!
Rouse me from sloth and coldness
and make me desire You with my whole heart.
Teach me to love meditation,
sacred reading and prayer.
Teach me to love what must
engage my mind for all eternity.'
Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman
Painting: Laurits Andersen Ring, in US public domain due to age
Oh, yes! How I identify with this confession AND request....
ReplyDeleteOh, me too, Rebecca. I am encouraged that Newman also struggled with this...that gives me hope!
DeleteNancy, A timely word. Sometimes I feel like a little child all a-gog with shiny objects and toys. There are times and seasons when He does capture my heart and attention more than those other things. But alas... other times, life overwhelms and it's the constant reminder to draw near to Him, even as soon as we realize we've moved away. He's so gracious to receive us over and over.
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy... always appreciate my visits here.
Brenda
xox
A-gog with shiny objects... that's me exactly!! Indeed He is gracious; we are deeply blessed. Thank you!
DeleteOh good one!! Need to save this.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Patty!
Delete