A Prayer for Vulnerable Authenticity
Spirit of Life, Teach Me To Be Honest When I Pray
Spirit of Life,
Teach me to be honest and vulnerable when I pray.
When I am afraid, give me the courage to reveal my fear to you, for healing and renewal.
When I experience rage, give me the serenity to acknowledge my anger before you.
When I feel jealous, show me how to admit my envy in the face of your compassion.
When I am depressed, inspire me to bring even my lethargy to your dynamic presence.
When I feel inadequate, give me the comfort to offer my incompleteness to you.
When I find myself bitter and blaming, offer me the space to reflect on your grace.
When I am paralyzed by feelings of guilt or remorse, help me to know your unconditional mercy.
When I seem to be drowning in grief or mourning, show me how to hold fast onto you.
When I feel disgusted or judgmental, show me my blindspots with your playful humor.
When I shudder with loneliness, reassure my heart so that I may know you are there.
When I am consumed by gnawing desires that are inappropriate or unhealthy, remind me how even emptiness can be a gift.
When I preen with pride, gently form me to remember who I truly am.
It is hard for me to give all of myself to you; I am so tempted to only give you a good report. Keep reminding me that it is your loving intimacy I truly crave, and that only in authenticity am I able to receive you fully.
Trusting in your tender mercy I pray,
Amen.
Join me for a journey through the wisdom of Celtic Spirituality! My “Celtic Spirituality” e-course is sponsored by Spirituality and Practice, and begins March 23. For more information and to register: spiritualityandpractice.com/ecourses/course/custom/102/celtic-spirituality-2026